Since the start of 2026, solar panel prices in Pakistan have surged significantly, with consumers noticing a sharp rise in costs for popular imported Chinese models. Local retailers report that the price increases are particularly pronounced in the 585-watt, 645-watt, and 720-watt categories, which remain in high demand among residential and commercial buyers.
Currently, a 585-watt solar panel is selling for around Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 21,000, up from Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 17,000 at the beginning of the year. Similarly, the 645-watt model has jumped to approximately Rs. 24,000 to Rs. 25,000 from about Rs. 20,000. The most substantial increase has been observed in the 720-watt category, which now ranges from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 35,000, compared with Rs. 22,000 to Rs. 25,000 previously.
Saleem Memon, a solar panel importer and vice president of the Karachi Electronics Dealers Association, explained that the rise in global silver and copper prices has escalated production costs for Chinese manufacturers. As a result, the per-watt price of solar panels in Pakistan has climbed from Rs. 22 to Rs. 33 over the past five months. Memon added that ongoing demand in the local market, coupled with further price increases in China, could push rates to Rs. 40 per watt in the near future. Import taxes on Chinese solar panels have also contributed to the overall price surge.
Memon noted that while competition among local suppliers continues to influence pricing, Pakistan still maintains sizeable solar panel inventories due to high imports over the last two years. However, the price increase is not confined to solar panels alone; associated solar batteries have also become more expensive. Rates for solar batteries have risen by roughly 10% over the past month, adding to the overall cost of setting up solar systems.
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With rising raw material costs, import taxes, and strong consumer demand, solar energy adoption in Pakistan faces higher initial investments, even as public interest in renewable energy continues to grow.
