On Friday, PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif announced that the Punjab government will provide a Rs14 per unit discount on electricity bills for August and September to consumers using up to 500 units of electricity.
Addressing a press conference in Lahore with his daughter and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz by his side, Sharif described the move as a significant relief, made possible by cutting government expenses in various sectors.
Sharif explained that Rs14 per unit will be deducted from electricity bills, and the Punjab government has redirected Rs45 billion from its development budget to fund this relief. He noted that he has been actively involved in high-level provincial meetings, leading to questions about his daughter’s autonomy in decision-making.
He also mentioned that a three-month relief period for electricity lifeline consumers, announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, will benefit those using less than 200 units per month. The government claimed a Rs50 billion discount for these consumers in July, August, and September, benefiting 25 million consumers and covering 94% of domestic electricity users.
Nawaz praised his daughter for this initiative and highlighted her upcoming solar panel scheme, which aims to reduce electricity bills further. Under the “Roshan Gharana” program approved in July, people using up to 200 units can receive free solar panels, while those using up to 500 units will get them with a 10% payment, with the government covering 90% of the cost. Consumers can also access interest-free loans for a five-year repayment plan.
Nawaz urged his younger brother to support the solar panel initiative and encouraged other provinces to implement similar programs. He also reiterated his demand for accountability for those responsible for the current economic situation, which he attributes to former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s tenure.
Sharif promised to provide more details in future press conferences and assured that he would remain engaged with the media despite concerns about his recent low profile.
