The programme started with an official digital lottery held under the prime minister’s free solar scheme. Gilgit-Baltistan Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (R) Yar Muhammad inaugurated the lottery and said the digital system will ensure that the selection process remains transparent and fair for all applicants.
Under the scheme, solar systems with a total capacity of 58 megawatts (MW) will be distributed. Out of this, 40MW will be provided to households, while 18MW will go to small businesses and IT-related organisations to support their energy needs.
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Gilgit-Baltistan has been facing frequent and long power cuts for many years. Because of this crisis, many communities in the region have started shifting to solar energy as a reliable and sustainable alternative.
Several pilot projects have already shown positive results. One such initiative, the Accelerate Clean Energy (ACE) project supported by AKRSP and HBL Microfinance Bank, has installed rooftop solar systems for households. These systems are helping families get stable electricity for daily chores, education, and other household activities.
Solar energy is also being used to strengthen local businesses and agriculture in the region. Solar-powered Digital Technology Hubs are helping improve internet connectivity, while lift irrigation systems and passive solar greenhouses are assisting farmers in growing crops even during harsh winters.
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Officials said the region already has more than 160 micro-hydropower plants producing about 18MW of electricity. These plants are supplying power to more than 30,000 households, showing the strong potential of decentralised and climate-friendly energy solutions in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Provincial ministers welcomed the launch of the scheme and called it an important step toward improving the lives of local residents. They said the initiative will help people cope with the electricity shortage while promoting clean energy in the region.
G-B Additional Chief Secretary Mushtaq Ahmed said the programme is designed to encourage alternative energy sources, reduce the power crisis, and support environmentally friendly electricity generation. He added that the digital lottery will ensure that solar systems are distributed fairly among eligible applicants.
The digital lottery makes the selection process clear and fair. Many people in Gilgit-Baltistan struggle with power shortages, so solar panels can bring real relief. If the scheme succeeds, it could encourage more clean energy projects across Pakistan.
