ISLAMABAD: The federal government has taken a decision in principle to launch a 100 MW solar power project in Gilgit-Baltistan to get rid of the long-standing energy crisis and expensive electricity.
A detailed review of the progress of the project was conducted in a review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, and the relevant officials were briefed. The meeting informed that this project consists of two major parts. In the first phase, an 18 MW solar system will be installed to convert all government buildings in Gilgit-Baltistan to solar energy, which will be completed by December 2026.
This will reduce the electricity load of government offices, hospitals, and educational institutions and reduce the pressure on the national grid. Under the second major part of the project, an 82 MW solar system is being installed at the household level for ordinary citizens. This system will initially be installed in the homes of Gilgit, Skardu, Chilas, and Khawlu. In Gilgit-Baltistan, the people face severe difficulties due to load shedding and dependence on expensive diesel generators during the winter.
The solar project will not only reduce electricity load shedding but also significantly reduce the electricity bills of the local population. Highlighting the importance of the project, the Prime Minister directed that the pace of work be accelerated to ensure completion before December 2026. For transparency, he also ordered to conduct impartial third-party validation at all stages of the project so that no questions arise on the quality and use of funds.
The Prime Minister clarified that the federal government will bear all the expenses of this 100 MW solar power project for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. This move is being described as an important step towards further strengthening the relationship between the federation and GB and making the region self-sufficient in terms of energy. According to energy experts, the solar project will prove to be extremely successful due to the availability of sunshine in Gilgit-Baltistan throughout the year. This will reduce carbon emissions and also help the region cope with the effects of climate change.
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