Karachi, Pakistan Web Desk – In a significant move towards promoting renewable energy, the Sindh government has distributed solar home systems to deserving households across various areas of Karachi. This initiative aims to provide an affordable and sustainable energy solution to low-income families, ensuring access to electricity without the burden of high utility bills.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah graced the inauguration ceremony as the chief guest at the Radisson Banquet Hall, where the distribution event took place. The event was organized under the Sindh Energy Department’s Solar Energy Project, with several prominent officials in attendance, including Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, Advisor Najmi Alam, and Energy Secretary Musadiq Ahmed Khan.
A Milestone for Solar Energy in Sindh
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced the commencement of the distribution of solar home systems to underprivileged families in Karachi. He emphasized that the Sindh Solar Energy Project, run under the provincial energy department with the support of the World Bank, is a crucial step toward the advancement of solar power in the region.
“Under Component Three of this project, we are providing subsidized solar home system kits to 200,000 low-income households,” stated the Chief Minister. “Each verified kit includes an 80-watt solar panel, a control unit, a lithium-iron battery, three LED bulbs, a mobile charging port, and a DC fan.”
He further explained that each district in Sindh would receive 6,666 solar home system kits, benefiting thousands of families struggling with power shortages. The selection process for eligible households was carried out using data from the Benazir Income Support Program’s NSER (National Socio-Economic Registry). Families with a Poverty Means Test (PMT) score between 21 and 50 will receive the kits at a highly subsidized rate of just PKR 6,000.
Expanding Solar Power Across Sindh
The Sindh government has set an ambitious target of distributing all 200,000 solar home system kits by July 2025. To achieve this, 400 kits will be distributed weekly in each district. Several NGOs, including HANDS, SRSO, and SAFCO, have partnered with the government to facilitate the distribution process efficiently.
“This initiative will significantly improve the quality of life for low-income families by providing them with access to reliable and affordable electricity,” said Murad Ali Shah. “Our energy policy is modern, sustainable, and environmentally friendly, aligning with global trends towards green energy.”
Commitment to Clean and Affordable Energy
Highlighting the importance of renewable energy, the Chief Minister stressed that combating climate change requires a shift towards sustainable power sources. We are committed to positioning Pakistan among the developed nations in the energy sector,” he added.
The Sindh government has been actively investing in clean energy projects. The Thar Coal Project has already added 3,300 megawatts of affordable electricity to the national grid. Additionally, under the Benazir Income Support Program, solar home systems are being provided free of cost to the most vulnerable families.
“Our mission, in line with the Pakistan Peoples Party’s manifesto, is to ensure that every household has access to affordable and alternative energy sources,” stated Murad Ali Shah.
Future of Renewable Energy in Sindh
In his speech, the Chief Minister highlighted that during former President Asif Ali Zardari’s recent visit to China, agreements were signed with Chinese companies for 350MW and 75MW wind and solar hybrid projects. “Developed countries are rapidly shifting from fossil fuels to clean energy, and Sindh is following the same path with large-scale renewable energy initiatives,” he said.
With a vision for a greener future, the Sindh government remains committed to reducing Pakistan’s reliance on conventional energy sources. This initiative is expected to be a game-changer for the people of Sindh, offering them a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly energy solution.
“The future of Pakistan lies in green energy,” concluded the Chief Minister in his address.
This large-scale solar project not only reflects the Sindh government’s dedication to sustainable development but also brings hope to thousands of families, ensuring a brighter and cleaner future for generations to come.