How To Apply For Free CM Punjab Solar Panels Scheme
As a result of the significant increase in electricity prices in Pakistan, people are facing substantial hardship. Following suit with other regions, the Punjab government, under the leadership of Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has implemented the Roshan Gharana Scheme.
The project is estimated to cost Rs 9.5 billion, to provide free solar systems to at least 50,000 households across the entire province via a ballot system.
This brief guide thoroughly covers the eligibility criteria, provides instructions for the application process, and specifies all the requirements that you’re looking for.
Understanding the Roshan Gharana Scheme
The Roshan Gharana scheme, launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, aspires to reduce the financial burden of electricity bills while also promoting the adoption of clean solar power. This is a dream come true for those who were struggling with the high cost of traditional electricity.
By providing free or heavily discounted solar panels, the government is making it easier than ever for Pakistanis to make the switch to renewable energy. This will not only lower your monthly electricity expenses but also make a positive contribution to the environment.
As per the official sources, the whole process is divided into two phases:
- In the first phase, eligible households will receive free solar panels.
- Then, in the second phase, there will be an interest-free loan option for high-unit slab consumers.
The criteria for eligibility and the registration process are clearly outlined below.
Eligibility Criteria for Free Solar Panels
When you first hear about this scheme, one of the first questions you might have is: What is the criteria for qualifying?
Here it is:
- Households consuming up to 200 units of electricity per month are eligible for the free solar systems. This helps ensure the program reaches those who need it most.
- You must be a Pakistani citizen with a valid CNIC and with permanent address in Punjab.
- The property where the solar system will be installed must be owned by you, or you must have authorization from the property owner.
- You must not have been involved in any electricity theft in the past. The government wants to reward responsible citizens.
To qualify for free solar panels for your home, you must meet these eligibility requirements. If you meet all the above requirements, don’t hesitate to apply (don’t wait for the deadline ).
What about those with over 200 units?
What are the government’s plans for those of us who use over 200 units of electricity per month?
In the second phase of the scheme, if your monthly bill is between 200 and 500 units per month, you may be eligible for an interest-free loan. The key thing to understand is that the government will finance 90% of the total cost of the solar panels through commercial banks, leaving just 10% for the homeowner to pay (as an initial deposit).
In the third phase, people who use more than 500 units will be able to access solar panels with 25% initial payment and the remaining 75% will be financed by the Punjab government.
And the payment plan is designed to be manageable, with a 5-year instalment process.
Remember that in the second and third phases, the government is providing support with a zero interest rate, which you would otherwise have to pay.
This makes it a highly feasible project that can provide relief on our electricity bills.
How to Apply for Free Solar Panels
Applying for free solar panels is super easy.
Via SMS: The government has made the process to apply for this assistance quite straightforward for eligible families. All you need to do is send your bill reference number and CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) to the number 8800 via SMS.
Visit Bank of Punjab: if you prefer, you can also apply online or visit any local branch of Punjab Bank to get the process started.
So I encourage you to take advantage of this convenient opportunity. Just a few quick steps and you’ll be on your way to receiving the assistance you deserve.
Cost and Installation of Free Solar Panels
The government will cover 100% of the cost of the solar systems (in the first phase, under 200 units), including all expenses related to the installation process.
You won’t have to pay a single rupee out of your pocket. The government is committed to making green energy at your doorstep with ZERO investment.
The installation process is straightforward. Once you’ve applied and been approved for the program, a team of certified technicians will come to your home and install the solar panels on your roof. They’ll handle everything from the paperwork to the physical installation, ensuring a seamless experience for you.
How many solar panels will each house receive?
The government will provide complete solar systems, including solar panels, inverters, batteries, and other required components to eligible households.
- Households using 50 units or less will be eligible for a 500-watt solar panel system.
- Households using between 50 and 100 units will be granted a 1-kilowatt solar panel system.
- Households using between 200 and 300 units will be eligible for a 1,100-watt solar panel system.
- Households using between 300 and 400 units will receive a 1,650-watt solar panel system.
- Households using 500 units will be provided with a 2,200-watt solar panel system.
When will the panels be distributed?
The Punjab government has announced that the distribution of free solar panels will start on August 14, 2024, which is Pakistan’s Independence Day.
If there are any changes to the schedule, we will update this blog on a daily basis. The new date will be added if it is from an official source.
Concluding Remarks
The Roshan Gharana Scheme offers a valuable opportunity for eligible households in Punjab to access free or discounted solar panel systems, providing much-needed relief from high electricity costs.
By clearly outlining the eligibility criteria, application process, and installation details, this guide empowers residents to take advantage of this government initiative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility criteria for the scheme include being a Pakistani citizen, having a valid CNIC, and consuming no more than 200 units of electricity per month.
To apply, eligible households can visit any Bank of Punjab branch. They can also send an SMS with their electricity bill reference number and CNIC to 8800
Each eligible household can receive up to two solar panels, along with an inverter and a battery, capable of generating up to one kilowatt of electricity.
The SMS number for the Punjab Solar Panel Scheme is 8800. To register, you need to send your electricity bill reference number and your National ID card number to this number.
Content Writer | Assistant Manager (Electrical) at IESCO
As a passionate content writer, I’m on a mission to make solar hassle-free for you through my expert guides and easy-to-digest content.