CM Punjab Solar Scheme for Tubewells
On December 11, 2024, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif launched the CM Punjab Solar Scheme for Tubewells, a transformative initiative designed to revolutionize agriculture in Punjab. This program aims to provide solar panels to deserving and underprivileged farmers, addressing the high costs of commercial electricity in Pakistan. By promoting efficient irrigation systems, the scheme encourages the cultivation of high-value crops such as vegetables, fruits, and other cash crops.
Overview of the CM Punjab Solar Scheme
The CM Punjab Solar Scheme for Tubewells is a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability. The initiative is particularly crucial given the rising costs of electricity and fuel, which have been a burden on farmers. This program not only aims to alleviate financial stress but also seeks to improve the overall efficiency of farming operations. The scheme is designed with a sliding scale cost-sharing formula that considers the socioeconomic and financial capabilities of the farming community. By utilizing solar energy, small-scale farmers can effectively tackle the challenges posed by expensive electricity, making it easier for them to manage their tubewells and irrigation systems.

Key Features of the CM Punjab Solar Scheme
The CM Punjab Solar Scheme offers several essential benefits for farmers:
- Minimal Upfront Cost: Farmers can obtain solar panels with an initial down payment of just 25%. This low entry cost makes it accessible for many who might otherwise be unable to afford such technology.
- Government Subsidy: The Punjab government covers 75% of the total cost of solar panel installation, allowing farmers to repay their investment over five years. This subsidy significantly reduces the financial burden on farmers.
- Transparent Distribution: A lottery system ensures fair access to solar panel installations among eligible farmers, promoting equitable distribution of this renewable energy source.
- Comprehensive Package: Eligible participants will receive not only solar panels but also essential components such as batteries, inverters, and other necessary solar equipment.
- Financial Relief: By providing solar panels for tubewells, this initiative aims to lessen the financial strain caused by rising energy bills.
- Operational Efficiency: Utilizing solar-powered tubewells enhances operational efficiency in farming practices.
- Environmental Sustainability: Transitioning from diesel and gasoline-powered tubewells to solar energy contributes to lower carbon emissions and promotes environmental sustainability.
Subsidy Structure for Solar Tubewells
The subsidy structure under the CM Punjab Solar Scheme is based on the capacity of the solar systems:
- 10 KW System: Farmers will receive a subsidy of PKR 500,000.
- 15 KW System: A subsidy of PKR 750,000 will be provided.
- 20 KW System: For larger systems, a subsidy of PKR 1,000,000 is available.
Farmers are responsible for covering the remaining costs associated with installing these solar systems.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this program, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Punjab.
- Property Ownership: The land must be registered in their name.
- Electric Tubewell: Farmers should own an electric tubewell with a power requirement of up to 15 KW.
- Documentation: A copy of the CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) and Fard-e-Malakiat (land ownership document) is required.
Applications can be downloaded from the Agriculture Department’s official website or submitted in person at designated offices.
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Scheme Name | Chief Minister’s Program for Solarization of Agriculture Tubewells in Punjab |
Total Allocation Cost | Rs. 9,887.42 million (Rs. 2,500 million for 2024-25) |
Gestation Period | 2 years (2024-25 to 2025-26) |
Objective | – Promote solar irrigation for agricultural resilience and climate change adaptation. – Increase water and crop productivity. – Enhance farmers’ irrigation affordability. |
Scheme Components | Solarization of 7,000 tubewells |
Eligibility Criteria | – Resident of Punjab (attach CNIC and FRC certificate). – One facility/solar system per family. – Owns agricultural land in the same district (attach Fard-e-Malakiat). – Electric tubewell (up to 15 KW) installed on or before 31st March 2024 (attach last paid bill). – Tubewell with water table depth up to 60 feet. – Must have a 3-phase electrical connection. |
Total Cost (Category-wise) | Rs. 9,887.42 million (100% funded by the Government) |
Application Process | – Awareness campaign and advertisement in print media. – Application forms available at Deputy Director Agriculture (Water Management) office. – Submit completed application to the same office. – Applications scrutinized based on criteria. – Selection through balloting as per district quota. |
Key Dates | – Advertisement: 25th July 2024 – Last Date for Applications: 15th August 2024 – Submission Start (Tentative): 15th May 2024 |
Managing Department | Water Management Wing, Agriculture Department Punjab |
Focal Person | Malik Muhammad Akram, Director General Agriculture (Water Management), Punjab, Lahore |
Contact Number | 0300-8814537 |
Application Process
The application process for the CM Punjab Solar Scheme will be supported by a comprehensive awareness campaign aimed at encouraging farmers to apply. Here’s how interested farmers can participate:
- Visit Local Offices: Farmers can obtain application forms from local Deputy Director of Agriculture (Water Management) offices.
- Submit Applications: Completed applications should be submitted at these offices along with required documentation.
- Lottery Selection: Successful applicants will be chosen through a lottery system based on district quotas, ensuring fairness in distribution.
Program Objectives
This initiative aligns with Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s election promises to provide free solar panels to farmers. Launched shortly after her appointment as Chief Minister, its primary goal is to relieve farmers from the financial pressures caused by escalating gas and electricity bills. The scheme aims to empower approximately 50,000 farmers by facilitating access to sustainable energy solutions. By adopting solar technology under this initiative, farmers can significantly reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources and embrace more sustainable agricultural practices.
Who Can Benefit?
While official announcements are pending regarding specific eligibility criteria, initial reports suggest that small-scale farmers will be prioritized. Eligible candidates must actively cultivate their land and adhere to official guidelines for updates.
Conclusion
The CM Punjab Solar Scheme for Tubewells represents a monumental shift towards sustainable agriculture in Punjab. By providing farmers with access to affordable solar energy solutions, this initiative not only enhances agricultural productivity but also promotes environmental sustainability. Farmers interested in participating in this transformative opportunity are encouraged to visit their nearest Bank of Punjab branch to register and take advantage of this life-changing scheme. With this initiative, Punjab is set on a path towards a more sustainable agricultural future that benefits both farmers and the environment alike.