Assessing the Impact of Renewable Energy Integration on Energy Efficiency within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a major development project that aims to enhance connectivity and cooperation between China and Pakistan. It is part of China's broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which seeks to improve trade routes and economic integration across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The study examines the impact of renewable energies such as hydro, biofuel, solar PV, and geothermal on energy efficiency within the CPEC. The findings reveal significant inefficiencies in the hydroelectric and biofuel energies, where energy production increases while efficiency declines. In contrast, solar PV and geothermal power had no discernible impact on the energy efficiency, suggesting that either these technologies are not yet fully utilized, since still being in the early stages of integration into CPEC's energy grid. The study recommends implementing several practices such as modernizing infrastructure by replacing outdated facilities with advanced technology to improve energy conversion and transmission efficiency. Integrating automation and control systems to minimize losses and enhancing maintenance practices to extend facility lifespan and performance. Scaling up solar PV and geothermal technologies through supportive policies and investments. Integrating smart grid technologies to enhance renewable energy effectiveness through better energy management. Finally, increase research and development investment, with essential collaborations between academia, research, and the energy industry to develop tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of the CPEC project.