The current energy consumption trends in Pakistan and especially in Karachi are extremely inefficient, whether it is to be taken domestic, industrial, trade or commercial sectors. With minimum effort, 10% of national electricity can be saved by applying only the first level of energy conservation that is a change in attitude. It is simple, instant and effective and all it requires is a stop to use energy unnecessarily.
Leaving lights and home appliances on even when they are not being used is a common practice in our society. Similarly, many businesses such as shops dealing in cloth and garments, jewellers, cosmetics, home appliances and electronics are usually extravagantly lit. It is commonly observed that shops that could use two or three 40-watt bulbs to meet the desired level of luminance use as many as 15 to 20 tubes. Not only does this increase power consumption, it also generates heat and makes the environment uncomfortable.
The second part of the solution is a change in lifestyles. It would begin with the acknowledgement that Karachi is facing an energy crises and every citizen has to pitch in to overcome it. The citizens have to draw a clear line between necessities (lighting, fans, tv, computers, etc) and luxuries (air conditioners, microwaves). There is not enough electricity to meet both requirements.
We will have to compromise a little on luxurious lifestyles in order to meet the necessities. Markets and commercial places can substantially reduce their power consumption by changing their working hours. An early start and early end to capitalize on daylight as much as possible should be recommended rather than having opening hours from afternoon until late at night. Air-conditioning, usually a sign of a luxurious lifestyle, needs to be dropped. Bearing in mind that a typical domestic air conditioner consumes far more electricity in one hour than a fan does over 24 hours, air conditioning should not be allowed except for sensitive applications such as hospitals and research centres. The choice is between using air conditioners for a few hours and then doing without electricity in peak summer months or avoiding air conditioners and other luxury gadgets but having round-the-clock electricity available to meet fundamental needs specially at hospitals, schools and other community oriented areas.
