CM Maryam unveils free solar scheme

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Monday formally launched the free solar panel scheme for those consuming up to 200 units per month by conducting a digital balloting.

She congratulated those chosen for the initiative, which aims to provide relief from high electricity costs.

Under the scheme, 94483 solar systems will be installed within a year for households consuming up to 200 units of electricity per month. Out of 861000 applicants, 47182 systems of 0.55 kW and 47301 systems of 1.1 kW will be distributed.

The process is fully digitized, with verification done through customers’ reference numbers and CNICs. A dedicated helpline has been established to assist beneficiaries, and solar panels will be linked to recipients’ identity cards to prevent theft.

This initiative is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 57000 tonnes and lessen the federal government’s subsidy burden. After physical verification, installation will begin by the end of March, with the first phase set for completion by July.

Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of swift implementation to ensure immediate relief for eligible households.