KARACHI: Sindh government will distribute 200,000 solar panels in August in collaboration with World Bank.

According to media reports, Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah announced initiative, stating, “We are trying to introduce policy for cheaper electricity supply in Sindh. We are also considering providing 300 units of free electricity, which requires cooperation from federal government.” He highlighted that province has allocated funds in its budget for 500,000 solar panels. “Solar panel can supply energy to fan and three bulbs,” he said.

He mentioned discussions with banks to provide additional solar panels, with Sindh government paying interest on bank loans for these panels. “It is vision of PPP to provide cheaper electricity to people. We will also launch programme of solar parks and e-bikes,” he added. He questioned benefit of solar energy if taxes are imposed on it and emphasised provincial government’s commitment to inexpensive energy projects. “People are shifting to solar after increase in price of grid electricity,” he noted.