Government to Solarize High-Loss PESCO, QESCO Feeders to Cut Power Wastage

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday instructed authorities to convert high-loss electricity feeders of Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) and Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO) to solar energy, aiming to reduce distribution losses and provide uninterrupted power to affected communities.

During a high-level review meeting on the electricity sector reforms in Islamabad, the Prime Minister emphasized that the solarization of loss-making feeders would create sustainable, low-cost micro-grids for local populations. He noted that provincial and federal governments, along with local communities, would act as partners in implementing the initiative.

The meeting received a detailed briefing on the proposed conversion, highlighting the benefits of solar power in reducing the financial burden on electricity distribution companies while ensuring reliable energy supply. Following the discussion, the Prime Minister gave in-principle approval for the project and directed the immediate commencement of pilot projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Over the past few years, Pakistan has witnessed a significant shift toward solar energy, with residential, commercial, and industrial consumers increasingly adopting solar systems to combat frequent outages and rising electricity costs. Reports show that the country’s net-metering capacity has reached 6,000 MW, while off-grid solar installations now total 12,000 MW as of the end of 2025.

According to the International Energy Agency, Pakistan has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing solar markets, importing roughly 50 GW of solar panels in the first half of the year alone. This surge has positioned the country as the third-largest market for Chinese solar panels, drawing international attention to its renewable energy expansion.

With this step, the government aims to combine technological innovation with sustainable energy solutions, providing long-term relief to consumers and strengthening Pakistan’s renewable energy infrastructure.