Shehbaz pushes early completion of 100MW solar project in Gilgit-Baltistan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed authorities to speed up work on a 100-megawatt solar power project in Gilgit-Baltistan, reaffirming the federal government's commitment to financing the entire scheme aimed at improving electricity supply in the mountainous region.

Chairing a meeting to review progress on the project, the prime minister instructed officials to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible and ordered independent third-party validation of all stages of implementation to guarantee transparency, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

The meeting was informed that the 100MW project forms part of a broader federal initiative to expand solar energy infrastructure in Gilgit-Baltistan and reduce reliance on conventional power sources.

Officials told the meeting that work is already underway on an 82MW solar energy programme for residential consumers in Gilgit, Skardu, Chilas and Khaplu. The initiative is intended to increase access to affordable electricity and support the region's growing energy needs.

Participants were also briefed on a separate 18MW solarisation project covering government buildings across Gilgit-Baltistan. Under the programme, solar installations in government offices located in Baltistan division are expected to be completed by October, while work in Gilgit and Diamer divisions is scheduled to conclude by December.

The PMO said the prime minister emphasised the importance of accelerating renewable energy projects in the region and ensuring that implementation remains transparent and efficient.

The 100MW project was approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council in August 2025. Prime Minister Shehbaz subsequently granted formal approval for the initiative in December, with the project designed to provide a more reliable, affordable and sustainable source of electricity for Gilgit-Baltistan.