Maryam launches free solar panel scheme via digital ballot

LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has formally launched the ‘Chief Minister Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme’ by conducting a digital balloting.

She conducted an automatic digital balloting of the ‘Chief Minister Free Solar Panel Scheme’ by giving different numbers and congratulated the lucky users who succeeded in the scheme.

The chief minister directed to complete the solar panel installation process as soon as possible. She said, “We want to provide maximum relief to the people from expensive electricity, there should be no delay in this regard. The free solar panel scheme should be completed at the earliest.”

On this occasion, it was informed that after physical verification, the installation of solar systems will start across the province by the end of March. The first phase of the free solar panel scheme installation will be completed by the end of July.

Secretary Energy gave a detailed briefing to CM Punjab about the ‘Chief Minister Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme’. Secretary Energy while giving a briefing apprised that 94483 solar systems will be installed in the first phase under the ‘CM Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme’. Solar systems will be installed free of charge for consumers consuming up to 200 units per month in the province. Some 861,000 consumers applied for obtaining free solar panel scheme. The entire process of the free solar panel scheme was completed through end-to-end digitization.

It was further informed in the briefing that 47,182 systems of 0.55kW and 47,301 systems of 1.1kW will be installed. Consumers consuming 100 units per month and up to 200 units per month will be given free solar systems. Verification will be done using the reference number and CNIC number listed on the consumer’s monthly bill. A helpline has also been set up to assist and facilitate the consumers who receive free solar panels.

The solar panels and inverter will be linked to the consumer’s computerized identity card to protect them from theft. It was apprised in the briefing that installing one lakh solar systems in Punjab will reduce carbon emissions by 57,000 tonnes. The free solar panel scheme will also reduce the burden of subsidy on the federal government.

“Punjab will be made a role model for the protection and promotion of forests and wildlife,” said Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif in her message on World Wildlife Day. She added, “Comprehensive measures for the protection of forests and wildlife in Punjab are a clear proof of our commitment.”

The chief minister said, “This is the first government that is implementing Islamic teachings and legal requirements of respecting and protecting the rights of animals other than humans.” She added, “During one year, strictest measures have been taken against animal violence, abuse, illegal possession and hunting throughout Punjab.” She highlighted, “For the first time, Animal Rights and Protection Act has been made comprehensive and rules have been made more effective.”

Maryam Nawaz said, “Fines have been imposed, and cases have been registered for illegal hunting of wild animals and birds.” She added, “Punjab’s first wildlife force has been formed, and women have been made part of it. It will be of great help in the protection of wildlife.”