Under the solarization of tube well programme, over 500,000 applications had been received and according to the plan, 8,000 electric and diesel-powered agricultural tube wells are being converted to solar energy. Among these, 60,000 applications were for diesel-operated tube wells, while 441,000 for electric-operated ones.
Chief Minister Punjab’s agricultural tube well solarization program with a cost of Rs 9 billion is being implemented. To facilitate farmers, the deadline for application submission was extended to January 6, 2025.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has taken a remarkable step by launching a solar-powered tube well project under the Kisan Package. This initiative aims to replace traditional fuel and electricity-powered tube wells with solar energy solutions, fostering both cost efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The PAD is leading this program and is all set to transform 8,000 tube wells into solar power, now these tube wells will run on solar power. The budget of almost 9 billion Rupees is allocated for it, this initiative underscores the government’s dedication to reducing farmers’ energy costs and supporting Punjab’s agriculture sector while alleviating pressure on the provincial energy grid.
This project is expected to bring various positive impacts in the lives of farmers or improve their economic conditions by
- Reducing energy costs
- Reliance on conventional sources for instance coal, and fossil fuels
To scale back the intensity of these challenges, the Punjab government has introduced a subsidy plan with three tiers to facilitate the solarization of tube wells:
Rs. 500,000 for 10 kW systems
Rs. 750,000 for 15 kW systems
Rs. 1,000,000 for 20 kW systems
Farmers will cover the remaining costs based on the subsidy level they decide to choose, enabling a shared-cost model to transition to solar power without incurring overwhelming expenses.
Read more: Free solar systems will be distributed in Rajanpur and Attock districts in first phase
Moreover, the project is strongly aligned with sustainability goals by cutting greenhouse gas emissions and promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices.
Solar energy offers a renewable and efficient alternative for powering farming operations while being both cost-effective and environmentally responsible.
This solar-powered tube well program represents a transformative step for Punjab’s agriculture sector. By addressing economic and environmental challenges.
it aims to enhance farmers’ livelihoods while paving the way for a greener, sustainable future in the province. To qualify, farmers must have their tube wells installed by October 30, 2024, and their land must be registered in the provincial land registry.
Farmers can submit the applications till December 31, 2024, ensuring sufficient time for interested farmers to enroll.
Farmers will cover the remaining costs based on the subsidy level chosen, enabling a shared-cost model to transition to solar power without incurring overwhelming expenses.