Punjab has rolled out its “Roshan Ghar” solar panel financing initiative, aiming to provide broader access over time.
However, the scheme excludes individuals engaged in electricity theft, those with multiple or faulty meters, and those failing to pay their bills.
Consumers in default or with defective meters also do not qualify.The Punjab cabinet recently greenlit the “Roshan Gharana” program, which provides free solar panels to residents using up to 200 units of electricity and solar panels at a 10% cost for those using up to 500 units.
The provincial government will shoulder 90% of the solar panel cost.An interest-free loan option is available, with a five-year repayment term.
These criteria apply to all applicants, whether they seek free or loan-based panels.
The revised project has been submitted to the Planning & Development (P&D) Board for approval, after which implementation will commence.
To determine eligibility, consumers can send their bill reference number and ID card number to 8800. Successful applicants will be informed via SMS after a lottery draw conducted by the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB).
Details will be verified by the district administration and DISCOs.To prevent resale, solar panels and systems will feature barcodes and QR codes.
In the initial phase, over 100,000 consumers will receive solar panels through the lottery.
The Solar PV app will monitor the performance and readings of installed systems. Following a successful pilot run, the scheme will officially launch on August 14.
During a recent meeting in Lahore, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz urged swift implementation of the scheme, recognizing the economic burden of rising wheat and electricity prices and promising relief for the people.
She emphasized her commitment to reducing electricity bills for all Punjab citizens and noted plans to gradually expand the scheme’s reach.