Punjab gets free solar panels; Karachi misses out on power price cut

ISLAMABAD: Two recent developments have brought a moment of relief for electricity consumers across the country: the launch of free solar panels for consumers in Punjab and a reduction in electricity prices nationwide, except in Karachi.

On Friday, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) announced a reduction of Rs1.14 per unit in electricity prices for the rest of the country, excluding Karachi, in the monthly adjustment for October 2024.

According to a notification issued by NEPRA, this price reduction will be reflected in consumers’ electricity bills for December. However, it is important to note that this reduction will not apply to the consumers of Karachi Electric Supply Company (K-Electric).

The Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) had initially requested a price cut of Rs1.1 per unit in the October adjustment, which NEPRA has approved.

The move comes after a similar reduction of Rs1.28 per unit in electricity prices for the rest of the country, excluding Karachi, in the September 2024 monthly adjustment. That reduction was reflected in the November electricity bills.

In related developments, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz officially inaugurated the Chief Minister Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme, a new initiative aimed at providing permanent relief to the public from the burden of expensive electricity bills.

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During the launch ceremony, Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the scheme is part of the government’s broader strategy to provide lasting relief to the people, particularly those struggling with high energy costs.

Under the scheme, 0.1 million solar systems will be installed across the province throughout the year. The solar panels will be provided free of cost to consumers who use up to 200 units of electricity per month.

Moreover, 52,019 consumers who use 100 units per month will receive 500 free solar systems.

Similarly, 1,100 solar systems will be provided to consumers who use up to 200 units monthly.

Punjab residents can apply for the scheme by sending an SMS to 8500 or by registering through an online portal.

The initiative is part of Maryam Nawaz’s earlier announcement in July, when she promised to provide free solar panels to consumers using 200 units or less per month.