Punjab CM Free Solar Panel Scheme – Eligibility Criteria Explained
The Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, launched the CM Punjab Free Solar Panel Scheme (usually known as “Roshan Gharana”) to reduce the cost of electricity to reduce electricity in low-income areas and to help switch to clean energy.
Who Can Apply?
Households must meet these requirements.
- Residency: Must be a Punjab resident with a valid CNIC.
- Electricity Use: Must have used 0 to 200 units per month (based on June 2024 billing).
- Up to 100 units: Eligible for a 550W solar system
- 101–200 units: Eligible for a 1100W system
- Sanctioned Load: Must not exceed 2 kW.
- No Existing Solar System: Homes already equipped are not eligible.
- Disqualifications Include:
- Electricity theft
- Faulty or multiple meters
- More than three delayed bills within the last year
- Higher household income or government employees, in some cases
Why It Matters
This scheme is a powerful step toward sustainable living for Punjab households. By providing free solar systems—including panels, batteries, and inverters—it enables:
- Lower electricity bills
- Clean and reliable power supply
- Reduced reliance on fossil fuels
- Long-term cost savings for families
How to Apply
Online Application
- Visit cmsolarscheme.punjab.gov.pk
- Click “Register”, fill in your name, CNIC, contact details, and create a password.
- Enter your electricity bill reference number and verify the details.
- Accept the terms and submit your application.
- You will receive confirmation via SMS and can track your application status online.
SMS Method
- Send an SMS in this format to 8800:
BillReferenceNumber CNIC - You’ll receive a reply confirming your application.
What Happens Next?
Selected households undergo:
- Digital Balloting (for fairness and transparency)
- Physical Verification: Confirming identity, location, and meter status
- Installation: Approved vendors install your solar system, linked to your CNIC for accountability to prevent misuse.
Quick Summary Table
| Residency | Permanent resident of Punjab |
| Electricity Usage | 0–200 units/month (June 2024 bill) |
| Sanctioned Load | Up to 2 kW |
| Existing Solar | Must not already have one installed |
| Disqualifications | Theft, multiple meters, late payments, etc. |
This initiative makes solar power accessible to deserving families—lowering their electricity bills and contributing to a greener Punjab. Phase 1 installations are already underway, with more to follow soon.
