Solar panel prices surge in Pakistan ahead of federal budget 2026

Solar panel, inverter, and lithium battery prices have risen sharply across Pakistan ahead of the federal budget 2026, with dealers reporting stock shortages driven by uncertainty over proposed tax increases on imported solar equipment.

Prices have climbed by up to PKR 9,000 per unit even before any new tax regime takes effect.

What are solar panel prices in Pakistan right now?

Solar panel prices in Pakistan currently range from PKR 26,000 to PKR 33,800 depending on wattage.

A 585-watt panel now sells between PKR 26,000 and PKR 27,000, a 645-watt panel between PKR 31,000 and PKR 32,000, and a 720-watt panel between PKR 33,500 and PKR 33,800. Prices have increased by PKR 5,000 to PKR 9,000 per unit compared to recent months.

Why are solar panel prices increasing ahead of the budget?

Market players say many dealers have withheld stock in anticipation of higher import duties.

The government is reportedly reviewing a proposal to raise the General Sales Tax on solar equipment from 10% to 18%, triggering speculative hoarding and tighter supply across several market segments. This supply squeeze has added further upward pressure on retail prices.

Global factors have also contributed. Rising international costs of raw materials, including silver and copper, have pushed up ex-factory prices from Chinese manufacturers, who supply the bulk of panels sold in Pakistan.

How much have inverter and battery prices gone up?

Inverter prices have risen by up to PKR 20,000, while small residential solar systems in the 1 to 3 kilowatt range have seen increases of PKR 5,000 to PKR 10,000.

Lithium battery prices have also surged, with a 5-kilowatt unit now selling for as high as PKR 260,000 in local markets, up by as much as PKR 20,000.

What does the price surge mean for solar adoption in Pakistan?

Dealers warn that further tax increases could raise installation costs for households and businesses, slowing adoption of solar energy at a time when electricity tariffs remain persistently high.

Pakistan has seen rapid growth in rooftop solar installations in recent years, driven largely by grid power costs and urban demand for energy independence. A significant price increase risks reversing that momentum for cost-sensitive buyers.