KARACHI: Prior to unveiling of 2024-2025 budget, there has been noticeable surge in solar panel prices, attributed to traders adjusting their rates in anticipation of upcoming tax changes.

According to reports, government, aligning with IMF conditions amid bailout negotiations, is reportedly considering imposing additional taxes on solar panels. This speculation has led traders to proactively raise prices, resulting in an increase of Rs 8 per watt across various panel sizes and specifications. As of June 2024, new prices for solar panels are: 1 Watt: Rs 8 588 Watt Plate: Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000, 180 Watt Panel: Rs1,440. Consequently, consumers now face higher prices, with significant jump observed particularly for larger panels such as 588-watt plate, which previously saw an increase of Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000. Smaller panels ranging from 180 to 280 watts are now priced between Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,500.