PM Solar Scheme Pakistan 2026 — Full Eligibility and Application Guide
The Prime Minister Solar Scheme is Pakistan’s flagship government initiative to accelerate residential solar adoption. Under various phases launched since 2023, the scheme offers subsidized solar systems, easy financing, and in some cases free panels to eligible households. This guide covers who qualifies, how to apply, what you receive, and common mistakes to avoid in 2026.
What Is the PM Solar Scheme?
The PM Solar Scheme (also called the “Solarization of Homes” program) aims to reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and provide affordable electricity to households currently paying high WAPDA bills. The scheme operates through a combination of direct subsidies, government-backed loans via commercial banks, and panel distribution through DISCO networks.
📋 Key fact: The scheme is administered by the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB) in coordination with the Ministry of Energy and participating commercial banks including HBL, UBL, NBP, and Bank of Punjab.
Who Is Eligible for the PM Solar Scheme 2026?
| Category | Eligibility Criteria | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Low-income households | Monthly WAPDA bill under Rs. 3,000 (below 200 units/month) | Subsidized or free solar panel kit |
| Middle-income households | Bill Rs. 3,000–15,000/month, valid CNIC, own property | Government-backed low-interest loan |
| Farmers / tube well owners | Agricultural land with tube well connection | Solar pump subsidy |
| Government employees | Active government service, property ownership | Special installment plan |
⚠️ Important: Eligibility criteria have changed across scheme phases. Always verify current requirements at aedb.org.pk or your nearest DISCO office before applying — information from 2023–2024 phases may be outdated.
What Do You Receive Under the Scheme?
- Solar panel kit (typically 1kW–5kW depending on your WAPDA bill tier)
- Hybrid or on-grid inverter (AEDB-certified brand)
- Net metering application assistance through your DISCO
- Installation by an AEDB-licensed installer
- 1–2 year system warranty via the scheme
How to Apply — Step-by-Step
- Check eligibility — Visit aedb.org.pk or your DISCO’s official website and check current scheme phase requirements against your last 3 WAPDA bills.
- Gather documents — CNIC, last 3 electricity bills, property ownership proof (or landlord NOC for renters), bank account details.
- Register online or at DISCO office — Submit your application via the AEDB portal or physically at your regional DISCO office (LESCO, HESCO, MEPCO, PESCO, etc.).
- Wait for verification — DISCO field teams visit your property to verify eligibility, roof space, and load assessment. This typically takes 2–8 weeks.
- System installation — Once approved, an AEDB-licensed installer is assigned. Installation is typically completed within 4–6 weeks of approval.
- Net metering activation — After installation, your DISCO processes the net metering connection, allowing you to sell excess solar power back to the grid.
PM Solar Scheme vs Independent Solar Purchase — Comparison
| Factor | PM Solar Scheme | Independent Purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Zero to subsidized | Full market price |
| Brand choice | Government-assigned | Your choice |
| Installation timeline | 2–6 months (queue) | 1–4 weeks |
| System size | Fixed by bill tier | Any size you choose |
| Warranty support | Scheme warranty + brand | Brand warranty only |
| Net metering | Included in process | You arrange separately |
💡 Pro tip: If you qualify for the scheme but need a larger system than the scheme provides, you can install the scheme’s subsidized panels AND add privately purchased additional panels on top — effectively getting free baseline capacity while customizing your system.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️ Watch out for scams: Fraudulent “PM Solar Scheme agents” are active across Pakistan, charging registration fees for scheme enrollment. Registration for the PM Solar Scheme is FREE. Never pay anyone to apply. Only register through aedb.org.pk or your DISCO’s official office.
AEDB-Approved Solar Companies — How to Choose a Vendor
Whether you install through a government scheme or buy privately, always use a vendor recognised by the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB). AEDB maintains the official list of registered net-metering vendors and approved solar companies in Pakistan. Using an AEDB-registered installer protects your equipment warranty and is usually required to get your net-metering connection approved by your DISCO.
How to check if a solar company is AEDB-approved:
- Visit the official AEDB website (aedb.org) and open the list of registered net-metering vendors / licensed solar companies.
- Confirm the company name and licence number match what the vendor gives you in writing.
- Ask for the vendor’s AEDB registration number and DISCO net-metering experience before signing.
- Avoid installers who cannot show current AEDB registration — unregistered work can delay or block your net-metering approval.
Not eligible for the scheme, or want to compare before you apply? See current market rates on our solar panel price homepage, or check local prices for Lahore, Multan and other cities to see what a private installation would cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the PM Solar Scheme free in 2026?
For households consuming under 200 units/month, the scheme has historically provided subsidized or free systems in certain phases. Higher-consumption households receive subsidized financing rather than free systems. Check the current phase details at aedb.org.pk — scheme terms vary by phase and phase availability.
❓ How long does PM Solar Scheme approval take?
Typically 2–4 months from application submission to system installation, depending on your DISCO’s workload and your region. LESCO (Lahore) has historically had faster processing than some other DISCOs. Urban areas are generally prioritized in early phases.
❓ Can renters apply for the PM Solar Scheme?
In most phases, renters can apply with a written NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their property owner. However, the system will be registered to the WAPDA meter holder — typically the landlord. Renters should clarify ownership arrangements before applying.
❓ What happens if I move after getting a scheme solar system?
The solar system is tied to the WAPDA meter at the property. If you move, the system stays with the property. Ownership and net metering agreements transfer with the property — new occupants assume responsibility for the net metering connection.
🌞 Planning your solar setup in 2026?
Compare current panel prices or calculate what size system your home needs.
Today’s solar panel prices → | Net metering guide → | 5kW system cost →
❓ Is Roshan Gharana the same as the PM / CM Punjab Solar Scheme?
Yes. “Roshan Gharana” is the branding used by the Punjab government for its 2026 free/subsidised solar programme under CM Maryam Nawaz. It is the Punjab implementation people commonly search for as the “PM solar scheme” or “CM Punjab solar scheme.” Applications for the Punjab programme are handled at the official portal, cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk.
❓ How do I apply for the PM Solar Scheme online?
For the Punjab (Roshan Gharana) scheme, go to cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk, click Register, and enter your name, CNIC and mobile number. You’ll need a CNIC with a Punjab address, an active connection with LESCO, MEPCO, FESCO, GEPCO or PESCO, and a recent electricity bill. Some phases also accept SMS registration. Always apply on the official government portal — never pay a third party a “registration fee.”
❓ What is the last date to apply for the PM Solar Scheme 2026?
Deadlines run in phases and change frequently, and unofficial websites often quote different dates. Do not rely on those. Check the current application window and last date directly on the official portal (cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk) before you apply, and submit early — quotas fill quickly once a phase opens.
❓ Can I get net metering under the solar scheme?
Government scheme systems for low-consumption households are usually sized for self-use rather than large export, so net metering may not apply to every package. If your goal is to sell surplus power back to the grid, you’ll typically need a private net-metering installation through an AEDB-registered vendor. Confirm the specifics of your allotted system before installation.
❓ Which provinces and DISCOs are covered?
The 2026 Roshan Gharana programme is a Punjab government scheme, so it covers Punjab residents served by LESCO, MEPCO, FESCO, GEPCO and PESCO. Other provinces run their own separate initiatives. If you’re outside Punjab, check your provincial energy department or AEDB for equivalent programmes.
PM Solar Scheme 2026 — Latest Updates (CM Punjab)
July 2026 Update: The scheme has been expanded under CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz as the Punjab Roshan Gharana Solar Scheme 2026. Eligible households in Punjab can now apply online at the official portal: cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk.
Who Is Eligible Under the CM Punjab Solar Scheme 2026?
- Punjab resident with a valid CNIC showing a Punjab address
- Active electricity connection with LESCO, MEPCO, FESCO, GEPCO, or PESCO
- Sanctioned load under 2 kW
- Average monthly consumption of 0–200 units
- Must not have previously received a government solar subsidy
How to Apply for PM Solar Scheme Online in 2026
- Visit cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk on your phone or desktop
- Click Register and enter your full name, CNIC, and mobile number
- Enter your electricity Reference Number (14 digits from your bill) and select your DISCO (LESCO, MEPCO, etc.)
- Upload clear photos of: front & back of CNIC, last paid electricity bill, and property ownership proof
- Submit and note your Tracking ID for status updates
No internet? Apply via SMS: Send your CNIC number and Reference Number to 8800. This is the official SMS helpline for PM Solar Scheme Pakistan 2026.
What Solar Equipment Will You Receive?
Approved applicants receive a complete solar installation at zero cost:
- Solar panels (capacity based on your sanctioned load)
- A certified hybrid inverter
- Battery backup system
- Full wiring and installation by a government-certified solar contractor
Important: Government solar-scheme terms, quotas, subsidy amounts and deadlines change often. This guide explains how the scheme works, but always confirm the current status, eligibility and last date on the official portal cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk (or AEDB for national programmes) before applying. Never pay anyone a fee to “register” you — official registration is free.
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.
