KARACHI: The Sindh Assembly was assured on Wednesday that the federal government has no plans to impose a tax on electricity generated through solar panels. This assurance came after the provincial government raised concerns over media reports suggesting such a proposal.
During Question Hour, Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah stated that the provincial government immediately approached the federal authorities to express its reservations. The federal government responded, ensuring that no such tax proposal was under consideration.
“In this era of inflation, imposing a tax on solar panels would be a total abuse of the people,” Mr. Shah emphasized, highlighting the burden of high electricity bills on citizens.
Provincial Solarization Programme
Addressing a query from Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan member Quratulain Khan, Mr. Shah detailed the provincial government’s solarization programme, which is in its final stages. The initiative aims to solarize 200,000 homes across Sindh, starting with users of up to 100 units of electricity in 10 districts. This project, supported by the World Bank, will soon expand province-wide.
Mr. Shah also noted that several government buildings, schools, colleges, universities, and hospitals in Karachi and Hyderabad have already transitioned to solar energy.
Loadshedding and Excessive Billing
Expressing concern over prolonged and unannounced loadshedding, the minister assured lawmakers of discussions with the management of K-Electric, Hesco, and Sepco to address these issues, including excessive billing. He emphasized that electricity disconnections should only target non-paying consumers and highlighted the provincial government’s commitment to assisting with bill payments and combating electricity theft.
Environmental Resolution
The Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution introduced by PPP member Khurram Karim Soomro, advocating for a “One person — one tree” campaign to protect the environment.
Story by Tahir Siddiqui
