How to Apply for PM Solar Scheme 2026 — Step-by-Step Guide Pakistan
The Prime Minister’s Solar Scheme (PM Solar Initiative) aims to distribute subsidised solar panels to lower-income households across Pakistan. If you qualify, you could receive 3–5 panels free or at heavily subsidised rates. This guide walks through the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process step by step. Here’s exactly how to apply for the PM Solar Scheme 2026 Pakistan, from checking eligibility to final submission.
Who Is Eligible?
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Monthly electricity bill | Under Rs. 10,000 (low-consumption households) |
| WAPDA connection type | Domestic residential — single phase |
| CNIC requirement | Valid Pakistan CNIC — must match the electricity account holder |
| Previous solar subsidies | Must not have previously received government solar subsidy |
| Property type | Owner-occupied (not rented) in most scheme phases |
⚠️ Eligibility criteria vary between scheme phases and by province. Always check the official AEDB or NTDC website for the latest requirements for the specific phase currently open for applications.
Documents Required
- Copy of CNIC (applicant and spouse if applicable)
- Latest WAPDA electricity bill (showing account number and consumer reference number)
- Proof of property ownership (registry or allotment letter)
- Passport-size photographs (usually 2)
- Bank account details (for subsidy disbursement in some phases)
- Mobile number registered on the CNIC (for SMS verification)
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Check if applications are open: Visit aedb.org.pk or the official PM Solar Scheme portal. Scheme phases open and close — confirm the current status before gathering documents.
- Register online: Go to the official portal and create an account using your CNIC number and registered mobile number. OTP verification via SMS is required.
- Fill the application form: Enter your consumer reference number (on your WAPDA bill), address, and household details. Upload clear scans of all required documents.
- Submit and note your application number: After submission, save your application reference number. You’ll need this to track your application status.
- Wait for DISCOM verification: Your local DISCO (LESCO, HESCO, MEPCO, etc.) verifies your consumption history and eligibility. This typically takes 2–8 weeks.
- Site survey: If approved for initial eligibility, an authorised survey team visits your property to assess roof suitability and installation feasibility.
- Receive installation schedule: Approved applicants receive an installation date. Installation is done by government-authorised contractors — you do not arrange your own installer.
Important Caveats
- The PM Solar Scheme has had multiple phases with different scales and eligibility — total capacity is limited and demand far exceeds supply
- Beware of fraud: there are many scam websites and agents claiming to “guarantee” PM Solar Scheme approval for a fee. The real scheme is completely free to apply for
- Processing times can be very long — many applicants wait 6–18 months between application and installation
- The scheme typically provides panels and basic wiring — batteries and hybrid inverters are usually NOT included in the base scheme allocation
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How many panels do you get under the PM Solar Scheme?
The standard allocation under most phases is 3–5 solar panels (typically 250–330W each) plus a basic charge controller and battery — suitable for fans, lights, and mobile charging. This is an off-grid solution for basic needs, not a full hybrid solar system for AC operation. Higher-capacity allocations have been announced for some phases but distribution has been limited.
❓ Can renters apply for the PM Solar Scheme?
Most phases require owner-occupied premises, as the solar installation becomes a permanent fixture of the property. Some provincial schemes have included rental properties with landlord consent letters. Check the specific phase requirements — eligibility has varied between federal and provincial implementations of the solar initiative.
❓ Is there a PM Solar Scheme for businesses?
The main PM Solar Scheme targets low-income domestic consumers. Separate commercial and agricultural solar financing schemes exist through ZTBL (Zarai Taraqiati Bank), commercial banks under SBP’s green financing framework, and AEDB’s net metering programme. These are loan-based, not subsidy-based, and apply to larger commercial and agricultural installations.
❓ What if I’m not eligible for the PM Solar Scheme?
If you don’t qualify for the scheme (higher income, higher consumption, or scheme is closed), the commercial solar market remains the best option. With solar panel prices at historic lows, a 5kW hybrid system can be installed for Rs. 650,000–850,000 with a payback period of 3–5 years — making commercial solar economically excellent even without subsidies.
⚡ Compare commercial solar system prices while you wait
Sources & references
Tariff, net-metering, and policy details on this page draw on the following official sources. Rates change often, so confirm current figures with the relevant authority or a licensed installer before you decide.
- NEPRA — National Electric Power Regulatory Authority: electricity tariffs and the 2026 shift from net metering to net billing.
- AEDB — Alternative Energy Development Board: solar policy, installer standards, and net-metering guidance.
- Your local distribution company (DISCO) — for example LESCO, K-Electric, IESCO, MEPCO, PESCO or QESCO — for area-specific tariffs and the net-metering application process.
