The Punjab government has decided to convert all 43 jails in the province to solar energy in a bid to reduce rising utility costs. The move, led by the Punjab Home Department, is expected to slash electricity and gas bills by up to 60%. The plan now awaits final approval from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, according to reports by Express News.
A survey by the National Radio and Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC) revealed that the province’s jails are currently spending Rs4.5 billion annually on energy. However, transitioning to solar power will require a one-time investment of Rs4.35 billion, which is projected to be less than the annual utility expenses, making it a cost-effective solution.
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The phased implementation of solar energy is expected to provide long-term financial relief, with the investment being recovered in just three years. Once fully implemented, the jails will become self-sufficient in energy, significantly reducing the financial strain on the provincial government.
A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department emphasized that the decision was driven by steep hikes in electricity and gas bills in recent years. The proposal also includes an allocation of Rs2 billion in the current fiscal budget to initiate the solar transition project.
