Multidimensional energy poverty in Pakistan: Determinants and spatial patterns at the provincial and district levels

This paper estimates the Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index (MEPI) for Pakistan and its provinces. It investigates its determinants using data from the most recent rounds of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS). The results indicate that 39% of households in Pakistan experience multidimensional energy poverty (MEP). Provincially, the highest prevalence is in Baluchistan (50%), followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (48%), Sindh (44%), and Punjab (29%). The likelihood of energy poverty rises with larger household sizes and limited access to water and sanitation facilities. Conversely, it declines with higher educational attainment among the household head and in upper wealth quintiles. Additionally, households receiving remittances are less likely to experience energy poverty. At the provincial level, significant heterogeneity exists in the determinants of MEP. Crucially, energy poverty is more common in rural areas. These findings support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7)—affordable and clean energy—by demonstrating significant disparities across provinces and among vulnerable households. Furthermore, the results align with SDG 6—clean water and sanitation—and SDG 10—reducing inequalities—by emphasizing the crucial roles of water and sanitation facilities, household wealth, and remittances in alleviating energy poverty. The study also advocates for improving educational quality (SDG 4) by emphasizing the positive influence of educational attainment on reducing energy poverty. Finally, it recommends targeted programs and province-specific policy actions to help improve energy access in Pakistan.