Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sohail Afridi, has emphasized the urgent need to accelerate the rollout of the provincial government’s ambitious household solarization initiative. This program is designed to provide solar energy systems to deserving families throughout the province, including the merged tribal districts, as part of a broader effort to enhance welfare and improve living standards.
During a comprehensive review meeting held at the Chief Minister’s House on Friday, Afridi underscored that the solarization of homes for underprivileged households stands as a flagship welfare project for the provincial administration. He highlighted the importance of completing all preparatory steps promptly to ensure the scheme’s swift implementation, thereby delivering much-needed relief to communities struggling with energy shortages and high electricity costs.
The meeting featured detailed presentations from officials who outlined the progress achieved so far. It was revealed that the scheme aims to equip approximately 130,000 eligible households across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with solar power units. This includes families residing in the merged tribal districts, where energy infrastructure has historically lagged behind the rest of the province.
the briefing, the program is divided into two main categories. The first category will benefit 65,000 households that will receive solar systems entirely free of charge, targeting the most vulnerable segments of society. Meanwhile, another 65,000 households in the second category will be offered solar units at a subsidized rate, paying only half the cost, with the option of convenient installment plans to ease the financial burden.
Officials also informed the Chief Minister that the project’s PC-I document has been finalized and is scheduled for submission to the Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) for approval in the near future. This step is crucial for securing the necessary administrative and financial endorsements to move forward with the scheme.
In addition to the main program, a separate solarization project targeting the merged districts is being advanced under the Accelerated Implementation Programme (AIP). This complementary initiative aims to provide solar energy solutions to an additional 120,000 households in these areas. The proposal is expected to be presented to the provincial cabinet for final approval during its upcoming session.
Furthermore, the officials explained that the distribution of solar units will be carefully managed, with quotas allocated to districts based on population size. Priority will be given to vulnerable groups such as widows, persons with disabilities, temporarily displaced individuals, families affected by natural disasters, and residents of off-grid or remote locations where access to conventional electricity remains limited.
Chief Minister Afridi’s call for expediting this solarization scheme reflects the provincial government’s commitment to sustainable development and social welfare. By harnessing renewable energy, the initiative not only aims to alleviate energy poverty but also contributes to environmental conservation efforts in the region. The successful implementation of this project could serve as a model for other provinces seeking to address similar challenges through innovative and inclusive policies.
