Pakistan blessed with huge energy resources has the capacity to generate over 2000 megawatts renewable energy from biogas. At least 120 to 160 megawatts could be generated from the available cattle farms and dung. This was said by Robert D Orr, Director Iqrow Agritee UK Limited and a foreign renewable energy expert, while addressing members of Pakistan Institute of International Affairs (PIIA) here at the institute's library on Saturday.
The foreign expert believes that thousands of megawatts could also be generated through the waste currently being burnt and adding to pollution and other environmental hazards. A mixture of carbon dioxide and methane formed by the decay of organic waste matter and acts as a fuel is being used world-wide.
Robert, who is already successfully running a biogas pilot project in Landhi area of Karachi, was of the view that small and medium sized biogas plants could be set up in various parts of the city where the cattle fields and manures are available.
Besides, the waste and heat generated by the existing cement and sugar mills in the country could also be converted into energy with little investment and efforts. Biogas could be one of the best sources of cheaper and efficient fuel for energy after hydro system in Pakistan. According to Robert, there was no waste in the biogas system as its waste (liquid fertiliser) was also important source of fertiliser for agricultural sector.
In reply to a query, Robert said thousands of tons civic wastes being pumped into the sea was also creating multiple issues related to both environment and fisheries sector. The only needs, he believes, were to have political will and reorganisation/use of available resources in the country. The event was also attended by Jonathan T Ward, Consul Economic and Commercial Affairs of USA in Karachi.