Sindh to provide subsidized solar systems to 500,000 households

The Sindh government will provide subsidized solar systems to 500,000 households with the World Bank’s support, officials have shared.

Each system will comprise a 100-watt panel, three LED bulbs, a 35-watt DC fan, and mobile charging ports with a six-hour battery backup and will be given to households for Rs7,000. Without the subsidy, the system’s cost would be around Rs50,000.

The World Bank has allocated $32 million for the project, with the possibility of further expansion.

This project aligns with Pakistan’s broader shift towards solarization, with significant steps being taken to promote renewable energy sources.

Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah confirmed discussions are underway with banks to facilitate the supply of solar panels.

Separately, an official said the distribution of solar systems will begin in October once the procurement process is complete.

There are 2.6 million off-grid households in Sindh, according to its chief minister, of which 500,000 will be given the solar systems in the first phase of the Sindh Solar Energy Project.

The Sindh government also plans to establish six micro-grids of 75 kilowatts each in all six divisions as a pilot project to cover 100-household clusters. These grids would provide electricity to households consuming up to 100 kWh per month.

The estimated cost of each grid connection for solar parks is Rs30 million.