Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formally inaugurated a landmark solar energy project for Gilgit-Baltistan, describing it as a major step towards affordable, clean and sustainable electricity for the region.

The project was developed under a steering committee formed by the prime minister and led by Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari. Officials said the initiative reflects Pakistan’s growing focus on renewable energy and advanced battery storage technology.

Under the plan, 499 buildings will be shifted to rooftop solar systems, while an 82 megawatt utility-scale solar project will provide clean electricity to nearly 13 lakh people across the region.

Authorities said a central control and communication system will also be established to improve dispatch and strengthen grid connectivity. The system will help balance 82 megawatts of solar power with existing hydropower resources and improve overall network efficiency.

The project will include a 66.1 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system, enabling electricity supply during night hours and periods of low solar generation.

In another major public benefit, 58 megawatts of solar PV panels will be distributed free of cost among households, shops and small businesses through a transparent balloting process.

Officials said the rooftop solar component will be completed by December 2026, while utility-scale solar clusters are expected to be operational by December 2027.