Harnessing Solar Potential for Sustainable Development of Karachi-Pakistan through Geo-Spatial Assessment

Abstract

Pakistan has the potential to produce renewable energy, which is critically needed in areas such as Korangi, a district in Karachi, Pakistan, that faces major challenges, such as rapid urbanization and pollution. In this study, Google Earth Pro was used to analyze solar panels' location using historical data from 2017. It was found that there are fewer solar panels in the industrial belt of Korangi. Korangi is situated in the southern part of the country, approximately 24.8 degrees north of the equator at latitude, which is relatively close to the equator, contributing to the high level of solar radiation and warm climate. Thus, this area is considered favorable for solar panels or energy production and 95 sampling locations were selected for the pollution assessment. Of these, 52 were those sites where solar panels are installed, and the remaining were at residential and commercial locations. Compared to 2017, the variables assessed in the existing research's pollutants are higher in the non-industrial zone (residential and commercial localities) for 2023. Air Quality Hazard zones are also found along the areas of conventional power generating plants. This study concludes with recommendations for city planners, policymakers, and energy professionals to frame appropriate strategies for Korangi-Karachi; which has implications for other regions in the country with potential for solar energy.