The wait is over. After months of announcements, the Punjab Provincial Government has officially activated the application portal for the Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme (Phase 2). With electricity rates hitting PKR 65/unit, this scheme is the only lifeline left for low-income households.
If you are tired of paying inflated bills, here is everything you need to know about getting a 1kW to 3kW system installed for free.
1. The Offer: Free vs. Subsidized
The government has divided the scheme into two categories based on your electricity consumption.
- Category A (Protected Consumers):
- Usage: If you use 0 to 200 units per month (average of last 6 months).
- Benefit: You get a COMPLETE FREE SYSTEM (Solar Panels + Inverter + Installation). You pay nothing.
- Category B (General Consumers):
- Usage: If you use 200 to 500 units.
- Benefit: You get the system on a 75% Subsidy. You pay 25% of the cost, and the government pays the rest. The bank (BOP) provides an interest-free loan for your share.
2. Eligibility Checklist
Before you apply, check if you qualify. You will be instantly rejected if:
- You have been involved in electricity theft (Meter tampering record).
- You have an outstanding bill (Arrears) that hasn’t been paid.
- Your meter is not in your name (or you don’t have a landlord’s NOC).
3. How to Apply (3 Methods)
There are three ways to register. The SMS method is the fastest.
Method 1: The SMS Short Code (Fastest)
- Open your mobile message app.
- Type your Bill Reference Number (14 digits) + Space + CNIC Number.
- Send it to 8800.
- Result: You will receive a confirmation message within 24 hours telling you if you are “Eligible” or “Ineligible.”
Method 2: The Online Portal
- Go to the official website: cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk
- Click on “New Registration.”
- Upload a clear picture of your CNIC and your Latest Electricity Bill.
- Submit the form. This method gives you a Tracking ID to check your status later.
Method 3: Bank of Punjab (BOP) Branch If you are not tech-savvy, go to any BOP branch. There is a dedicated “Solar Desk.” Bring your original CNIC and Bill; the staff will fill out the form for you for free.
4. The “Property” Requirement
A lot of people are getting stuck here.
- If you own the house: You just need the Registry/Fard.
- If you are a Renter: You CAN apply, but you need a “Permission Letter” (NOC) from the house owner on a stamp paper. Without this, the installation team will not set up the panels.
5. Beware of Scams
Please note: Registration is FREE. If an “agent” asks for PKR 500 or 1,000 to “process your file,” they are scamming you. The government has not authorized any third-party agents. Use the 8800 code or the BOP branch only.
Verdict
This is a “First Come, First Served” scheme with a quota of 50,000 units for this phase. If your bill is under 200 units, stop reading this and send that SMS to 8800 right now.
Have you received your eligibility SMS yet? Let us know in the comments.