The Future of Energy in Sindh: Free Solar Systems and Competition on the Horizon
Sindh Energy Minister Nasir Hussain Shah recently announced the government’s plans to revolutionize the energy sector in the province. By introducing legislation to establish multiple power utilities for production and supply, along with the local grid system, the aim is to encourage competition and ultimately enhance services while reducing consumer costs.
One of the key initiatives highlighted by Shah is the distribution of 160,000 free solar systems, complete with inverters and battery backups, to address issues such as load shedding and overbilling in Karachi. The minister also emphasized the potential of Thar coal to provide affordable electricity for the national grid, promising relief for consumers using up to 300 units.
Additionally, the Sindh government is working on establishing hybrid solar parks and exploring options to create a competitor to K-Electric. Through these efforts, the government aims to improve energy performance in Karachi by introducing more competition in the market. Despite challenges, the project to provide free solar home systems to 2.6 million households is progressing, with 500,000 off-grid households set to benefit this year.