Islamabad, Feb 6: The free solar system initiative launched by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has garnered an overwhelming response, with more than 1.6 million individuals signing up for the program, according to the provincial energy department. The program aims to provide solar power systems to 130,000 qualifying applicants, with the rollout taking place in two phases. Each phase will see 65,000 recipients selected.
The initiative is primarily designed to benefit those enrolled in the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), a government scheme that assists low-income households. Under the initiative, households consuming up to 100 electricity units per month will receive a 50% subsidy on the solar systems, which are valued at around Rs. 200,000 each.
The provincial energy department officials stated that once the registration period concludes, a thorough verification process will be conducted to ensure that the applicants meet the eligibility criteria. Following this, the distribution of solar systems will begin.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to provide affordable and sustainable energy solutions to low-income households, reduce dependency on the national grid, and promote clean energy use in the region. It is expected to have a significant impact, both in terms of reducing energy costs for qualifying households and contributing to environmental sustainability.