PM Directs Timely Execution of 100MW Gilgit-Baltistan Solar Project

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to ensure the timely implementation of the 100MW Gilgit-Baltistan Solar Energy Project, under which rooftop solar systems with battery storage and a combined capacity of 18MW will be installed on 499 government buildings by December 2026.

 

Chairing a review meeting on Wednesday, the prime minister received a detailed briefing on the project's progress. Officials informed him that the PC-I for the 82MW utility-scale solar component has been submitted to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for approval.

 

The 82MW project is expected to provide reliable, affordable and clean electricity to around 1.3 million people across Gilgit-Baltistan. Once completed, it is projected to strengthen the region’s power supply, improve grid reliability and quality, and significantly reduce load-shedding.

 

The prime minister said expanding access to clean, affordable and sustainable energy remains a key priority of the government's energy strategy. He described the 100MW solar initiative as a gift from the federal government to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, aimed at enhancing the region’s long-term energy security through dependable renewable power.

 

Sharif instructed the Power Division to complete the project within the approved timeline while maintaining high quality standards and ensuring effective coordination among all implementing agencies.

 

He also directed that the procurement process remain fully transparent, with all project payments to be made only after independent third-party verification of completed work.

 

The meeting was attended by Minister for Power Awais Leghari, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani, and other senior government officials.