Sunday, October 11, 2026
PAKISTAN

Pakistan Sasta Solar Scheme 2026: The 100,000 Solar Home Programme and How to Apply

The Pakistan Sasta Solar Scheme 2026 offers up to 70 % subsidy for 100,000 rooftop solar home systems, targeting low‑income families. This guide explains eligibility, required documents, and a step‑by‑step online application process, helping households cut electricity bills and join the renewable‑energy push.

Pakistan Sasta Solar Scheme 2026: 100,000 solar homes program

Pakistan Sasta Solar Scheme 2026: The 100,000 Solar Home Programme and How to Apply

The government’s Sasta Solar Scheme aims to bring clean, affordable electricity to households that still rely on diesel generators or unreliable grid supply. Launched in early 2026, the programme promises up to 100,000 solar home systems subsidised at up to 70 % of the market price. This guide explains who can benefit, what the subsidy covers, and step‑by‑step how to submit an application through the new online portal.

Why the scheme matters now

Pakistan’s electricity shortfall has pushed many families to purchase costly diesel generators, especially during summer peaks. The cost of running a 5 kW generator can exceed PKR 15,000 per month, eroding household budgets. By contrast, a 3 kW rooftop solar system can generate enough power for lighting, fans, and small appliances, cutting monthly electricity bills by roughly 60 %.

Beyond household savings, the scheme aligns with the national target of generating 30 % of electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The Ministry of Climate Change estimates that the 100,000 installations could offset around 150 MW of fossil‑fuel generation, reducing carbon emissions by roughly 250 000 tonnes per year.

Who is eligible?

The programme is open to Pakistani citizens who own or rent a permanent dwelling with a roof suitable for solar panels. Eligibility criteria include:

  • Annual household income below PKR 1.2 million (as verified by the latest tax return or BISP documentation).
  • Residence in a region where the national grid is connected, but load‑shedding is frequent.
  • No existing solar installation larger than 1 kW on the property.
  • Consent from the building owner if the applicant is a tenant.

Applicants who already receive the BISP 8171 stipend are automatically prioritised, as the scheme is designed to complement existing poverty‑alleviation programmes.

What the subsidy covers

The Sasta Solar Scheme provides a tiered subsidy based on the size of the system and household income. The table below summarises the main categories.

System SizeMaximum SubsidyOut‑of‑Pocket Cost (Approx.)
2 kW (basic)70 % of market pricePKR 30,000–35,000
3 kW (standard)65 % of market pricePKR 45,000–50,000
4 kW (premium)60 % of market pricePKR 70,000–80,000

All approved installations include a battery storage unit of at least 5 kWh, inverter, mounting structure, and a two‑year warranty from the certified installer.

Step‑by‑step application process

Applications are now accepted through the dedicated portal sastasolar.gov.pk. The process has three main stages:

  1. Pre‑registration: Create a user account using your CNIC number, mobile phone, and a valid email address. An OTP is sent to verify the contact details.
  2. Document upload: Submit scanned copies of the required documents (see table below). The system performs an automated eligibility check and flags any missing items.
  3. Site inspection: A certified solar technician visits the roof to confirm structural suitability and measures shading. If the inspection passes, the subsidy amount is earmarked and the installer is assigned.

Applicants receive an email confirmation within 48 hours of a successful submission. The entire process, from registration to installation, typically takes 4–6 weeks.

Required documents

The portal accepts PDFs or high‑resolution JPEGs. The following items must be uploaded:

DocumentPurpose
CNIC copyIdentity verification
Utility bill (last 3 months)Proof of existing electricity consumption
Income proof (tax return, BISP award letter, or salary slip)Eligibility assessment
Roof photographPre‑inspection visual check
Landlord consent (if rented)Legal permission for installation

All files must be under 5 MB each. If any document is unclear, the portal will request a re‑upload before the inspection stage can be scheduled.

“The Sasta Solar Scheme is not just a subsidy; it is a catalyst for a greener, more resilient Pakistan,” said Minister of Climate Change Ayesha Khan during the launch ceremony.

Benefits beyond the bill

Households that adopt solar power report several ancillary advantages. First, the reduction in diesel generator use improves indoor air quality, especially in densely populated neighbourhoods. Second, the stored energy can be used during night‑time load‑shedding, ensuring continuity for essential appliances like medical equipment.

Finally, participants become eligible for a future “Solar Export” programme, where excess electricity can be fed back into the national grid for a modest feed‑in tariff, creating a small but steady income stream.

Quick answers

How much can I expect to pay after the subsidy?

For a standard 3 kW system, the out‑of‑pocket cost is roughly PKR 45,000–50,000, depending on the installer’s quoted price.

Can I apply if I live in a rented flat?

Yes, provided you obtain a written consent from the landlord and the roof meets structural requirements.

Is there a limit on how many households can apply per district?

The scheme allocates a fixed quota of 2,000 installations per district, released on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

What happens if my roof is partially shaded?

The on‑site inspection will recommend a layout that minimises shading. In some cases, a smaller system may be approved to match the effective solar exposure.

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