Sindh Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah has unveiled plans for a new scheme to provide solar panels at highly discounted prices in the upcoming budget.
The initiative is aimed at promoting solar energy and alleviating energy poverty among the poor and middle class in Sindh.
The provincial minister stated that the Sindh government will initially allocate Rs 5 billion for solar energy projects in the new budget.
As part of this ambitious plan, 200,000 solar panels will be distributed, with the government covering 80% of the cost and the remaining 20% to be paid by the recipients. This scheme is designed to make solar energy more accessible and affordable for those in need.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Shah pointed out that there are currently 500,000 households in Sindh without access to electricity. The new solar initiative aims to address this issue by providing a reliable and sustainable source of energy.
In addition to the discounted solar panels, the government plans to establish solar parks and mini-grid stations across the province, including in Karachi. These efforts are expected to significantly improve the quality of life for many residents.
Moreover, the provincial government is set to provide 100 units of free electricity to the public, further easing the financial burden on low-income families. This initiative aligns with similar efforts in other provinces, such as Punjab, where 50,000 households using up to 100 units of electricity will receive free solar systems.