Punjab's free solar panel scheme kicks off

Consumers will be able to apply for the scheme via SMS or an online portal.

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The Punjab government has officially launched a free solar panel scheme, aiming to provide 100,000 consumers with solar systems over the course of one year.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the "CM Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme", enabling users to apply for the service via SMS or an online portal, Express News reported.

The scheme is designed to offer long-term relief to consumers burdened by high electricity costs.

"The free solar panel scheme aims to provide permanent relief to the public from high electricity costs," said Maryam Nawaz during the launch.

She added that 73 million consumers in Punjab have benefited from a Rs 14 per unit electricity subsidy.

The Chief Minister reiterated that public funds would only be used for the welfare of the people, stressing that the initiative is in line with the government's commitment to improve living conditions.

The Provincial Secretary for Energy provided a detailed briefing, outlining that the scheme would install 100,000 solar systems throughout the province.

Consumers who use up to 200 units of electricity per month are eligible for the free solar panels.

The scheme will provide a 550-watt solar system to consumers using up to 100 units per month, while those consuming up to 200 units will receive a 1,100-watt system. The installation of 100,000 solar systems is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 57,000 tonnes annually and reduce the financial burden on the federal government by decreasing electricity subsidies.

Earlier this year, Punjab government allocated special funds for the promotion and implementation of solar systems in the upcoming fiscal year's budget.

During the provincial assembly's budget speech, Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman stated, "It is proposed to install free solar systems for consumers using up to 100 units of electricity in the next fiscal year."

According to the budget documents, the government has launched the Chief Minister's Roshan Gharana Programme at a cost of Rs9.5 billion. This initiative aims to provide relief to the public, burdened by expensive electricity and bills, at the provincial level.

In the first phase, households consuming up to 100 units of electricity will be provided with complete solar systems free of charge, and the Punjab government will cover all installation costs.

Additionally, the minister mentioned that the "Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar" programme will provide every poor individual with a home. The government will also offer loans for the construction of five-marla houses. A budget of Rs10 billion has been allocated for the "Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar" programme.