Karachi, Pakistan, 15 March 2024 - As part of the Aga Khan Development Network’s (AKDN) commitment to net zero by 2030, the Aga Khan University (AKU) is installing its largest solar photovoltaic (PV) project to date​. To commence the project, a signing ceremony was held with Exide Pakistan Limited, who will be executing the project at AKU’s Stadium Road Campus in Karachi, Pakistan.

Renewable energy is one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to clean energy systems. Solar irradiation is very high in Pakistan, which makes solar PV ideal for energy generation in the country. In 2022, AKU installed 550 kW of solar PV on three of its campus roofs, resulting in a highly positive environmental impact. In the project launching today, 3.3 MW of solar PV will be installed across the remaining roofs as well as three large parking areas of the campus, providing the much-needed shade to the cars parked below. The installation of the new panels will happen in phases, with completion aimed by April 2025.

AKU President Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin said, "This is a major step forward in implementing our decarbonisation plan which we set for ourselves in 2022. This project demonstrates AKDN’s and AKU’s ongoing and strong commitment to environment, sustainability and responding to climate change through renewable energy."

AKU’s goal of net zero emissions by 2030 involves reducing absolute emissions in line with science using renewable energy and other strategies. Renewable energy must go hand in hand with increased energy efficiency, such as improved buildings, efficient equipment and behaviour changes. AKU is rapidly progressing on all these areas of emissions reduction and has been closely monitoring its emissions footprint while aligning with the University’s Decarbonisation Plan.

“The partnership between AKU and Exide Pakistan Limited to provide clean and free electricity is commendable. Not only does it benefit AKU, but it also sets a shining example for other hospitals and universities to follow in promoting renewable energy and combating climate change,” said Mr Altaf Hashwani, Director Exide Pakistan Limited.

“Through dedication and collaboration, initiatives like this can have a profound impact on sustainability efforts across various industries. Here's to the successful implementation of the project and to the ongoing enhancements that will make AKU a role model in carbon-free health care.”

The solar project will reduce the burden on the K-Electric power grid and improve local air quality. Solar PV not only provides carbon-free electricity but also significantly lowers the cost of electricity, provides independence from fossil fuels, and reduces noise and air pollution.

The project is expected to save 1,900 tonnes of CO2e every year, or the equivalent emissions produced by burning 800,000 litres of petrol in a car. This endeavour underscores AKU's commitment to environmental stewardship and positions it as a leader in climate action, not only within Pakistan but also on a global scale.