In a major step toward clean and cost-efficient energy, the Punjab Higher Education Department (HED) and the Department of Energy signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Saturday to convert 355 public colleges across the province to solar power.
The solarization project, valued at Rs. 2.94 billion, will be executed in three phases by 2028, with a combined installed capacity of 18,825 kilowatts. Once operational, the initiative is expected to generate 24.47 million units of electricity annually, resulting in estimated yearly savings of Rs1.34 billion for the provincial government.
According to the agreement, 135 electric vehicle (EV) charging centers will also be set up in the participating colleges to support the growing demand for sustainable transportation. Additionally, the Department of Energy will help solarize the buildings of six other provincial departments, adding another 2,770 kilowatts of renewable capacity.
Punjab Minister for Higher and School Education Rana Sikandar Hayat said the project reflects the government’s commitment to energy efficiency, environmental responsibility, and fiscal prudence.
“Once completed, this initiative will cut energy costs by up to 42 percent and establish a strong green energy culture across Punjab’s public education system,” the minister said.