Web Desk: Punjab government has extended its free solar panel scheme by six months, aiming to expand access to affordable energy and ease the burden of rising electricity costs on low-income households.
The program, originally set to conclude in June 2026, will now continue until December 2026 on the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
Under the revised plan, authorities will distribute more than 94,000 additional solar systems to eligible households across the province.
Officials said the government has allocated approximately 9.97 billion rupees for the expansion, reflecting efforts to transition a larger segment of the population to renewable energy.
The scheme targets households consuming up to 200 units of electricity per month, with beneficiaries selected through a computerized balloting process to ensure transparency.
According to official data, the initiative has received more than 800,000 applications so far, with around 375,000 applicants initially deemed eligible.
The strong response prompted authorities to extend the program in order to accommodate more qualifying families.
Selected households will receive solar systems with capacities of 550 watts and 1,100 watts, designed to meet basic electricity needs such as lighting and fans.
Officials said more than 90,000 systems have already been distributed in the first phase of the scheme.
They added that early results indicate a noticeable reduction in electricity expenses for low-income users, offering immediate financial relief amid rising power tariffs.
The expansion comes against the backdrop of increasing electricity prices, which have placed significant strain on middle- and lower-income groups.
Authorities said the solar initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote clean and sustainable energy while reducing dependence on the national grid.
Officials described the scheme as a step toward greater energy self-sufficiency and environmentally friendly power generation.
They added that scaling up solar adoption at the household level could also contribute to easing pressure on the country’s overall energy system over time.
The extension underscores the government’s intent to widen relief measures in response to public demand while accelerating the transition to renewable energy solutions.
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