Tidal energy is yet another key option

PAKISTAN's long search for affordable, indigenous and environment-friendly energy sources has largely focused on hydropower, solar, wind and biomass. While these resources remain vital, an important source of renewable energy continues to receive little attention: tidal energy. Harnessing the power of ocean tides could help diversify the country's energy mix and strengthen long-term energy security. Unlike solar and wind power, tidal energy is highly predictable because it is governed by lunar cycles rather than weather conditions. Electricity can be generated either through tidal barrages, which utilise differences between high and low tides, or through underwater turbines that capture the kinetic energy of tidal currents. Globally, tidal energy is moving from the demonstration stage towards early commercialisation, with installed ocean energy capacity now exceeding 500MW. South Korea's 260MW Sihwa Lake tidal power station remains the world's largest, while China, the United Kingdom, Scotland and Canada are actively expanding their tidal energy programmes. Pakistan does possess significant tidal energy potential all along its 1,045km coastline. Various studies estimate that the Indus Delta creeks and parts of the Balochistan coastline could generate well over 1,000MW of electricity. The 170km network of creeks in the Indus Delta, where tidal ranges reach two to five metres, offers particularly favourable conditions. As such, Korangi Creek near Karachi and locations such as, Sonmiani, Ormara, Kalmat Khor, Gwadar and some others have also been identified as promising sites for the development of tidal energy. Although there has been no large-scale tidal power project established yet in Pakistan, important groundwork has already been undertaken. The National Institute of Oceanography has conducted extensive coastal surveys and established a tidal and weather observatory in Gwadar. Likewise, the Hydrographic Department of Pakistan Navy has carried out some bathymetric surveys that helped collect valuable tidal data that led to the iden- tification of high-potential locations, including the creeks at Gharo, Dabbo, Waddi Khuddi and Paitiani. Despite these encouraging developments, ocean energy remains largely absent from mainstream energy planning. The focus of current policies is understandably on hydropower, solar and wind projects, but the country cannot afford to ignore a resource that is both indigenous and predictable. With renewable energy technologies continuing to evolve, tidal stream turbines are fast becoming more efficient and environmentally acceptable, while costs are expected to decline with wider deployment. In this context, the government decision to formulate a comprehensive strategy for meeting Pakistan's future energy needs through renewable resources offers a timely opportunity. The proposed strategy should not be confined to conventional renewables alone. It should also include emerging technologies, such as tidal energy, which could complement solar and wind power while contributing to energy diversification and grid stability. Pakistan should initiate pilot tidal energy projects in selected coastal creeks, establish an appropriate tariff framework, and encourage public-private partnerships to attract investment. If supported by a clear policy and sustained commitment, tidal energy could become a valuable addition to the country's renewable energy portfolio, helping reduce dependence on imported fuels, and contributing to a more secure and sustainable energy future. Hussain Ahmad Siddiqui Islamabad Published in Dawn, August 25th, 2026