Punjab Assembly pays Rs150 million in electricity bills in one year

As the Punjab Assembly paid Rs150 million in electricity bills in one year, the provincial government has decided to switch to solar energy. 

However, the unique architecture of the Assembly’s old and new buildings presents challenges for a full solar conversion. The complex’s signature domed roofs—an iconic feature of both historic and modern structures—limit the availability of flat surfaces suitable for solar panel installation. Engineers involved in the project estimate that only 35 percent of the premises can accommodate solar panels.

Despite this limitation, the partial shift is expected to generate annual savings of around Rs50 million by reducing reliance on the national grid during peak usage periods. “Even limited solar integration will significantly lower operational costs,” an official noted, adding that the project is being expedited in light of current financial constraints.

Energy analysts point out that while solar adoption in government buildings is gaining momentum across Pakistan, architectural and heritage considerations often restrict the scale of such projects. “Unless costly structural changes are made, buildings not originally designed for solar integration can only be partially retrofitted,” said a renewable energy expert based in Lahore.

The initiative also follows public backlash over the Assembly’s high electricity consumption, which opposition members have criticized as excessive during a time of steep tariffs and widespread load-shedding. Insiders suggest the move is intended to address both fiscal pressures and public perception.

The provincial works department is currently finalizing tenders, with installation expected to begin before year’s end. If successful, the Punjab Assembly could become a model for partial solar retrofits in architecturally challenging government buildings.

Though the projected savings fall short of the Assembly’s total annual energy expenses, officials view the shift as a meaningful step toward greater energy efficiency. “This isn’t just about cost-cutting—it’s about setting a precedent,” a senior government source said.