KARACHI: Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah of Sindh on Friday unveiled the provincial budget for 2024-25 and introduced a new scheme: providing free solar panels to 2.6 million families across the province. This initiative aims to promote solar energy and reduce energy poverty among the poor and middle class in Sindh.
During his budget speech, Chief Minister Shah announced a budget allocation of Rs25 billion over five years for this free solar initiative, aligning with the PPP’s policy of providing free solar systems.
Earlier, Sindh Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah had expressed the government’s intention to introduce discounted solar panels to promote solar energy. Initially, Rs5 billion has been allocated for solar energy projects, with plans to distribute 200,000 solar panels. Under this scheme, the government will cover 80% of the cost, with recipients responsible for the remaining 20%, making solar energy more accessible and affordable.
Shah emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that 500,000 households in Sindh currently lack access to electricity. The new solar initiative aims to address this issue by providing a reliable and sustainable energy source.
In addition to distributing discounted solar panels, the government plans to establish solar parks and mini-grid stations across the province, including in Karachi. These initiatives are expected to significantly enhance the quality of life for residents by improving access to electricity.
