How to register for Punjab’s free solar panel scheme

Consumers using up to 200 units can apply online or via SMS for the free solar panel scheme.

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Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the ‘Chief Minister Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme’ to provide much-needed relief for electricity consumers in the province.

Eligible households consuming up to 200 units of electricity per month can now apply for a free solar panel installation. Here’s a detailed guide on how you can register for this scheme, either through the web portal or via SMS.

1. Apply via the web portal:

To apply for the free solar panel scheme online, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Open your browser and visit the official registration portal at https://cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk.
• Step 2: Click the Register button to access the registration page.
• Step 3: Fill in the registration form with the following details:
  • Full Name
  • Email Address
  • Mobile Number
  • CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card)
  • Password (Create a secure password)
  • Confirm Password
  • Captcha Code (To verify you're human)

Once you've entered all the information, click Register to proceed.

2. Email verification:

• After registering, you will receive a confirmation email.
• Open the email and click the Verify Email Address link to authenticate your account.

3. Sign in:

• Once your email is verified, you will be redirected to the Sign-In page.
• Enter your registered email and password, then click Sign-In to access your account.

4. Application page:

• After logging in, the system will prompt you to enter your Bill Reference Number.
• Carefully enter your electricity bill reference number and click Check to proceed.

5. Verify application details:

• The system will display details related to your bill reference number. Make sure the information is accurate.
• If there’s an error in your reference number, click Reset Application and re-enter the correct one.

6. Submit application:

• Once the details are verified, carefully review the information displayed on the screen.
• Tick the box to accept the Undertaking terms, then click Submit to finalize your application.

7. Track application status:

• After submission, applicants can track the status of their application via the portal. Keep an eye out for updates on the processing of your solar panel installation.

2. Apply via SMS:

Alternatively, you can apply through SMS:

• Step 1: Send an SMS to 8800 with the following format:
  • ReferenceNo. [SPACE] CNIC
  • Example: 1234567890 1234567890123
• Step 2: Wait for a confirmation message on your mobile phone regarding your application.

Eligibility criteria:

The scheme is available for consumers using up to 200 units of electricity per month. Verification will be carried out using the reference number on the consumer’s monthly electricity bill, along with the CNIC number.

Helpline support:

If you encounter any issues during registration or need assistance with your application, a helpline has been set up to guide you through the process. Make sure to keep your CNIC and bill reference number handy for quick support.

Important notes:

• The solar systems will be installed only after physical verification of your details.
• Solar systems will be linked to your CNIC to prevent theft and misuse.
• The scheme’s first phase will see the installation of over 94,000 solar panels, with the process starting at the end of March and concluding by July.

Earlier, the Punjab government decided to transition all 43 jails in the province to solar energy, a move expected to reduce electricity and gas costs by up to 60%.

The plan, which aims to address rising utility costs, has been presented by the Punjab Home Department and is awaiting final approval from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Express News reported.

An initial survey conducted by the National Radio and Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC) has estimated that the annual energy costs for Punjab’s 43 jails have reached a staggering Rs4.5 billion.