Power cuts, high electricity bills, and rising energy costs have become a daily struggle for many families in Punjab. To ease this burden, the Punjab government—led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif—has introduced the CM Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme. Under this program, 100,000 households that use 200 units or less of electricity each month can get a complete solar power system free of cost.
Below is a simple, detailed guide to help you understand the scheme, check your eligibility, apply, and start enjoying solar energy at home.
1. What Is the Free Solar Panel Scheme?
- Goal: Help low-usage households generate their own electricity using solar energy.
- Offer: A fully installed solar power system—panels, inverter, battery, wiring—completely free.
- Target: Homes consuming up to 200 units per month (based on June 2024 bill).
- Quantity: Up to 100,000 systems across Punjab, given on a first-come, first-served basis.
With this scheme, you can cut your electricity bill and have backup power during outages—all without paying for the equipment or installation.
2. What Do You Get?
Each approved household receives:
- Solar Panels
- Inverter (to turn solar energy into home-usable electricity)
- Battery (to store power for use at night or during load shedding)
- Wiring, Mounting, Brackets
- Free Installation by trained technicians
- One Year Free Maintenance
All parts, labor, and first-year service are covered by the government. You pay nothing.
3. Why You Should Apply
- Save Money: Slash your monthly electricity bills—sunlight is free!
- Reliable Power: No more worries during load shedding; the battery kicks in.
- Clean Energy: Solar power reduces carbon emissions and helps the environment.
- Home Value: Solar-equipped homes are more attractive to future buyers.
Even after the free maintenance period ends, solar systems typically run smoothly for 15–20 years, giving you long-term savings.
4. Who Can Apply?
To ensure the right families benefit, the scheme has clear rules:
Eligibility Criteria
- Monthly Usage: You must have used 0–200 units in June 2024.
- Sanctioned Load: Your meter’s load limit must be up to 2 kW (found on your bill).
- Valid Documents: You need a current CNIC and electricity reference number.
- Single Meter: Only one solar system per home—no multiple meters.
Usage Categories
| Units Used in June 2024 | Category |
|---|---|
| 0–50 units | Lifeline |
| 51–100 units | Lifeline |
| 0–100 units | Protected & Unprotected |
| 101–200 units | Protected & Unprotected |
Who Is Not Eligible
- Involved in electricity theft.
- Have a defective or tampered meter.
- Made 3 or more late payments in the past 12 months.
If you fall into any of these, you cannot apply until the issue is resolved.
5. How to Apply
There are two very easy ways to apply—online or by SMS.
A. Online Registration
- Open your browser and go to:
https://cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk - Enter your Reference Number (from your electricity bill).
- Enter your CNIC Number.
- Fill in your name, address, and phone number.
- Click Submit.
You will see a confirmation on screen, and shortly after you’ll get an SMS.
B. SMS Registration
If you don’t have internet, use SMS:
- Open the SMS app on your phone.
- Type:
ReferenceNumber CNICExample:12345678901234 35202-1234567-1 - Send this message to 8800.
Within minutes, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS.
6. Important Dates
- Last Date to Apply: 5th January 2025
- Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Set a reminder on your phone so you don’t miss the deadline.
7. After You Apply: What to Expect
- Acknowledgment SMS
Your application is received and under review. - Home Visit for Verification
A team will come to your house. - They will check your meter, record sanctioned load, and verify your documents.
This takes about 15–20 minutes. - Approval SMS
If everything checks out, you’ll get an approval message with installation details. - Installation
Technicians install panels on your roof.
They set up the inverter, battery, and wiring.
They test the system to make sure it works. - Enjoy Solar Power
Start using solar energy right away.
Monitor your savings on your next electricity bill.
8. Tips for a Smooth Process
- Check Your June Bill First: Confirm your usage and load limit.
- Pay Outstanding Bills: Clear any late charges to avoid disqualification.
- Keep Your CNIC Handy: Make sure your CNIC is valid and matches your bill.
- Be Home for the Visit: The verification team needs access to your meter.
- Note the Deadline: Apply well before 5th January 2025.
Following these tips will help your application move quickly and smoothly.
9. Common Questions
- Can I Apply If I Have Solar Already?
No. This scheme is only for homes without existing solar systems. - Will I Be Charged After One Year?
No. The first year of maintenance is free. After that, you can choose to maintain the system yourself or hire a technician. - What If My Application Is Rejected?
You’ll receive an SMS stating the reason. Fix the issue (for example, clear late payments) and reapply if time allows. - Can I Transfer the System if I Move?
No. The system is tied to the original address and CNIC.
10. Where to Get Help
If you have any questions or need assistance, use these support channels:
- Helpline: 0800-02345
- Website Support: Visit the portal and click the “Help” or “Contact Us” section.
The support team is trained to guide you through any step of the process.
11. Final Words
The CM Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme is a fantastic opportunity to reduce your electricity costs, gain reliable power, and help protect the environment—without spending a rupee. If your household uses 200 units or less a month, don’t miss out on this chance.
- Check your June 2024 electricity bill.
- Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Apply online or via SMS before 5th January 2025.
- Prepare for the verification visit.
- Enjoy your free solar power!
Make the switch today and let the sun power your future. 🌞
