Sindh starts distributing solar systems to 200,000 low-income families

Express Tribune

05-03-2025

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The Sindh government has commenced the distribution of solar home systems (SHS) to 200,000 low-income households across the province, as part of the Sindh Solar Energy Project (SSEP).
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah made the announcement at an event held near KPT Interchange, DHA Phase-I, where he also confirmed that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari had ordered the purchase of an additional 300,000 solar units for distribution among low-income families.
'Through this initiative, we are providing solar power solutions to low-income households, enabling them to improve their quality of life, access better education for their children, and enhance their businesses,' said Shah.
The solar home systems will be distributed with significant subsidies, making them more affordable for families in need. Each system includes a robust solar panel, a 80W solar panel, a smart power management unit, a long-lasting battery, and essential accessories such as LED bulbs, mobile charging facilities, and a pedestal fan.
During his address, the CM also highlighted the challenges faced by the Sindh government in the renewable energy sector, particularly in the development of the Thar Coal Project.
Despite setbacks from federal government policies and financial constraints, the provincial government has remained committed to expanding renewable energy sources.
Shah noted that in 2014, the Sindh government took a bold step by solarising 600 schools in Nagarparkar and launching two solar power schemes in Sukkur. However, the federal government's refusal to approve additional power generation projects hindered further progress.
"We faced significant opposition when we tried to introduce solar power in the country. However, despite the challenges, we continued with our efforts to ensure that Sindh meets its energy needs," he said.
The CM also discussed the success of the Thar Coal Project, which has started to generate the cheapest electricity in Pakistan. He credited former President Asif Ali Zardari for his efforts in securing federal cooperation and ensuring the project's completion.
'We are proud that Thar coal is now playing a key role in providing affordable energy to Sindh and the wider country,' he added.
The Sindh government is also working with the federal government to develop a railway line dedicated to transporting Thar coal, further boosting the province's energy autonomy.
Additionally, the Sindh government has partnered with Chinese companies to develop wind-solar hybrid energy projects, with a focus on 350 MW and 75 MW schemes, which were finalised during Asif Ali Zardari's recent visit to China.
The CM reaffirmed the government's commitment to providing 300 free electricity units per month to low-income families, aligning with the PPP's manifesto and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He expressed hope that the goal of distributing 200,000 SHS kits by July 2025 would be met, with a target of 400 kits per district per week.
Energy Minister Nasser Shah emphasised that the SHS kits are being distributed equally across all 30 districts of Sindh. The distribution is being facilitated with the help of established NGOs like HANDS, SRSO, and SEFCO, ensuring the efficient delivery of kits.
He also noted that beneficiaries are being carefully selected using data from the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), ensuring that the most needy families are prioritised.
The CM concluded by praising the work of the Sindh Energy Department and its team, stating that the province is determined to lead the way in the transition to clean energy, with the support of the World Bank and other international development partners.
'The Sindh Solar Energy Project is a crucial step towards a greener, more equitable future,' he added.