The Punjab government has declared the date of January 5, 2025, as the final day for residents to register for its free solar panel program. Eligible citizens can either send their CNIC number through SMS to 8800 or visit the website cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk to register.
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On December 6, 2024, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz launched the scheme which aims at sunlighting housewives and spreading coverage on the rising electricity bills mostly consumed by the low-consumption meters ranging from 100 to 200 units. The scheme targets the supply of 100,000 solar systems throughout the next year, under two categories of ownership: up to 100 use 550 watts for appliances and an 1100-watt system for those using up to 200 units. This is expected to reduce the electricity tariffs and the emission of 57,000 tons of carbon annually.
A computerized ballot system will select beneficiaries by linking the electricity bill detail verification with the resident’s CNIC. The authorities will connect solar panels and inverters to CNICs and avoid theft. This is global and has the harmony of renewable energy while also relieving the federal subsidy burden. In addition, a helpline will be set up to assist applicants with registration and installation.