Shehbaz Sharif reviews 100 MW Solar Energy plan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to ensure complete transparency and timely implementation of the 100-megawatt solar energy project for Gilgit-Baltistan, describing it as a significant gift from the federal government to the people of the region.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to ensure complete transparency and timely implementation of the 100-megawatt solar energy project for Gilgit-Baltistan, describing it as a significant gift from the federal government to the people of the region.

Chairing a high-level review meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister assessed the progress of the renewable energy initiative and reviewed plans for its execution. He emphasized that promoting clean, affordable, environmentally friendly, and sustainable energy remains a key pillar of Pakistan’s national energy policy.

Shehbaz Sharif instructed the Power Division to fulfill all responsibilities efficiently to ensure the project’s installation and completion without unnecessary delays. He also stressed that every stage of the procurement process must be conducted with complete transparency. According to the prime minister, all payments related to the project should only be released after verification by an independent third party to maintain accountability and prevent irregularities.

Officials briefed the meeting on the project’s current status and future milestones. Under the initiative, solar systems with battery storage and a combined capacity of 18 megawatts will be installed on the rooftops of 499 government buildings across Gilgit-Baltistan by December 2026. These rooftop installations are expected to improve energy efficiency in public institutions while reducing dependence on conventional electricity sources.

The meeting was also informed that the 82-megawatt utility-scale solar project has been submitted to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for approval through the PC-I process. Once approved and completed, the large-scale solar facility is expected to provide reliable electricity to approximately 1.3 million people across the region.

Government officials said the project will significantly improve the quality and reliability of electricity supply in Gilgit-Baltistan. It is also expected to reduce power shortages and contribute to efforts aimed at minimizing load shedding, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

The 100MW solar initiative reflects Pakistan’s broader commitment to expanding renewable energy, lowering dependence on imported fossil fuels, and strengthening long-term energy security. By combining rooftop solar systems with a large utility-scale power plant, the project is designed to deliver both immediate and lasting benefits to residents, public institutions, and the regional economy.

The review meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Leghari, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani, and other senior government officials responsible for overseeing the project’s implementation. The government hopes the initiative will become a model for future clean energy projects across Pakistan.