PM directs timely Gilgit-Baltistan solar completion

July 09, 2026 (MLN): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized that  promoting clean, affordable and sustainable energy through solar power remains a key pillar of the country's national energy policy.

He made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad  to review progress on Gilgit-Baltistan's 100 megawatt solar power project, said a press release issued.

The prime minister termed the project a gift from the federal government to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, highlighting the significance of extending clean energy access to the region.

He directed the Power Division to fulfil its responsibilities and ensure the timely completion of the initiative without any delays.

Shehbaz Sharif also instructed that complete transparency be maintained throughout the procurement process for the solar project, stressing that all financial payments should only be released after third-party validation has been carried out.

He said such measures were essential to safeguard public funds and maintain accountability in the execution of the project.

The meeting was briefed in detail on the progress made so far on the Gilgit-Baltistan solar power initiative.

Officials informed the forum that under the project, eighteen megawatts of rooftop solar systems, complete with battery storage facilities, will be installed across four hundred and ninety-nine government buildings by December this year, a move expected to substantially reduce the region's reliance on conventional power sources.

Participants were further informed that the PC-I for the 82 megawatt utility-scale solar project has already been submitted to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for approval.

Once operational, the project is expected to benefit approximately 1.3 million people across Gilgit-Baltistan, providing them with a stable and sustainable source of electricity.

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