The Punjab government has announced that it will start distributing solar panels from Independence Day, August 14. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz unveiled the plan last week, which aims to alleviate the financial burden of electricity bills for residents.
Under this new scheme, households consuming up to 200 units of electricity per month will be eligible to receive free solar panels from August 14. This initiative targets lower-income households, helping them reduce their electricity bills by harnessing solar energy.
“My mission is to give relief to the people,” stated Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. “There are difficult situations but we are with the people and will remain so.”
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For households consuming between 201 and 500 units per month, solar panels will be available at a subsidized rate. These customers will only need to pay 10% of the total cost, with the Punjab government covering the remaining 90%. The solar panels will be supplied through local banks.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized the economic benefits of the initiative, stating, “The supply of solar panels will reduce the electricity bill by 40%.” She further added that the government's priority is to support the people through innovative solutions, especially during challenging times.
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On July 8, the CM announced the ‘Roshan Gharana’ program aimed at providing solar panels to Punjab residents, especially targeting those who consume up to 500 units of electricity monthly. To ease the financial burden, the payments can be made in easy installments spread over five years. Additionally, during the winter months, the installment amounts will be reduced.
Under the ‘Roshan Gharana’ scheme, the solar panels will be supplied exclusively by the government, ensuring quality and reliability. Consumers will have the flexibility to choose between government-supplied electricity and solar-generated power based on their needs.
This initiative comes in response to the rising electricity costs and the ongoing energy crisis. The first phase of the project will prioritize the most impoverished families, following a transparent allocation process.