The Punjab government is considering establishing solar panel factories within the province to bolster its solar panel policy.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to expanding renewable energy infrastructure and promoting sustainable practices in the region.

Minister for Industry and Commerce Shafay Hussain has reaffirmed a strong dedication to promoting local solar panel manufacturing. In a meeting with a delegation from a Chinese solar company, the minister discussed plans to establish solar panel factories in Punjab, highlighting the government’s keen interest in clean energy.

The minister also noted the enthusiasm of Chinese companies to invest in Punjab’s solar energy sector, with the government committed to providing the necessary support for these investments.

Pakistan aims to develop long-term policies to encourage investment in the solar energy sector. With Chinese companies expressing their willingness to invest, this is seen as an opportune moment for solar energy investment in Punjab.

Regarding the solar net-metering policy, Federal Minister for Energy Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari clarified that the government has no plans to end the scheme, which allows consumers to sell excess electricity generated by their solar systems. He dismissed rumors of a shift to a new gross-metering mechanism, reiterating the government’s commitment to promoting solar power—a policy initiated by PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif.

Leghari assured that consumers with existing net-metering contracts would not be affected and that any policy changes would involve stakeholder consultation. He also addressed a decrease in electricity demand and expressed hope for a plan to tackle power theft in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).