Karachi, Provincial Minister for Energy Syed Nasir Hussain Shah called for the development of local solar panel manufacturing to conserve foreign exchange and create jobs. The minister discussed the potential benefits of this initiative during a press conference held in the committee room of the Energy Department.

According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Sindh, Minister Shah highlighted the significant savings achieved by the Energy Department through the recalibration of K Electric’s government utility bills, which has saved the government more than Rs. 20 billion over the past decade. He reassured that the Sindh government is committed to settling legitimate dues with K Electric promptly, while also urging the utility to ensure continuous electricity supply, especially to economically disadvantaged consumers during peak summer months.

The Minister also announced that the Sindh government would provide special incentives to foreign investors interested in establishing solar panel manufacturing facilities within the province. This move is part of a broader strategy to not only save on costs associated with importing energy technology but also to stimulate the local economy.

Further emphasizing the commitment to renewable energy, Minister Shah outlined plans for four new solar parks, three in Karachi and one in Manjhand, aimed at providing affordable electricity to the poorer segments of the population. Additionally, he noted the ongoing interest from foreign investors in the Thar coal project, which is anticipated to provide low-cost electricity and has potential for gasification projects that could further benefit the province.