Sindh govt to provide free-solar systems

KARACHI: The Sindh government has launched an initiative to distribute free mini solar home systems among 275,000 needy families as part of the Rs. 18.20 billion project for the provision of better electricity and energy-saving facilities in the province.

Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon told on Tuesday that the government had taken up the project on the directions of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who was very much concerned about the well-being of the poor, especially those residing in far-flung areas.

He said under the scheme, 132,000 off-grid families who do not have even basic access to electricity supply will get free mini solar home systems while 143,000 grid families will be provided solar kits in order to help them save money from electricity bills.

According to the minister, the free solar kit includes an 180-watt solar panel, a battery, energy-efficient LED bulbs, and one fan, and it provides sufficient electricity for daily domestic use.

He said over 15,000 solar kits have been distributed till now and the provincial government would complete distribution among all 275,000 families by June 2027.

This move falls in line with Sindh’s greater efforts towards renewable energy and energy security in general. In Pakistan, there has been a massive rise in the use of rooftop solar panels in recent years as people try to escape high electricity costs and power shortages.

What makes it unique, however, is the fact that Pakistan has recently emerged as one of the fastest-growing importers of solar panels in the world due to the rising popularity of cheaper energy options.

Government officials say that the project will be a step towards improving the lives of people in villages and lessening their dependence on grid electricity and diesel generators.