Punjab Government Sets January 5, 2025, as Deadline for Free Solar Panel Scheme Registration
The Punjab government has officially announced January 5, 2025, as the final date to register for its highly anticipated Free Solar Panel Scheme. Launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on December 6, 2024, the initiative aims to provide free solar panels to households consuming between 100 to 200 units of electricity per month.
Read More: Punjab Announces Registration for 2024 Free Solar Scheme
How to Register
Eligible households can apply in two ways:
- Via SMS: Send your CNIC number to 8800.
- Online Registration: Visit the Punjab Information Technology Board’s (PITB) dedicated portal.
Key Features of the Scheme
- Target Audience: The scheme plans to provide 100,000 solar panel systems over the next year.
- System Allocation:
- Households consuming up to 100 units/month will receive a 550-watt solar system.
- Households consuming up to 200 units/month will receive a 1100-watt solar system.
- Impact: This initiative will significantly lower electricity bills for eligible consumers while promoting environmental sustainability.
- Environmental Benefit: Estimated to reduce 57,000 tons of carbon emissions annually.
Eligibility and Exclusions
Eligibility Criteria:
- Monthly electricity consumption between 0-200 units.
- Sanctioned load of no more than 2 kW.
- Usage verified based on June 2024 electricity bill.
Disqualifications:
- Consumers involved in electricity theft.
- Consumers with multiple or defective meters.
- Those with three or more unpaid bills in the past 12 months.
Transparent Selection Process
- Beneficiaries will be chosen through computerized balloting to ensure fairness.
- Verification will involve checking reference numbers and CNIC details against electricity bills.
- Solar panels and inverters will be linked to the CNIC of the recipient to prevent misuse or theft.
Assistance for Consumers
A dedicated helpline will be established to provide guidance during the registration and installation processes, ensuring smooth execution of the project.
This scheme not only addresses rising electricity costs for low-income households but also aligns with the government’s vision of fostering sustainability and reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Eligible residents are encouraged to register before the deadline to avail themselves of this transformative opportunity.
