The Pakistan’sSenate Standing Committee on Industries and Production, chaired by Senator Aon Abbas Buppi, discussed solar policy and EV initiatives, including concerns about lobbying by Independent Power Producers (IPPs). Ministry officials proposed a 10-year solar manufacturing policy with tax exemptions on machinery imports, equal sales tax treatment, and higher duties on finished products. An international certification lab and tax exemptions for solar panels in the next finance bill were also suggested. The Engineering Development Board (EDB), based in Islamabad, noted that while local solar panel production is feasible, domestic solar cell manufacturing is not. The EV policy draft remains pending, with the panel requesting clarity from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on solar manufacturing pricing and tax exemptions.
Pakistan Senate reviews solar policy and EV plans
Ministry officials proposed a 10-year solar policy with tax exemptions, import duties, and certification labs, focusing on local panel production. (Image Credit/Source: Pixabay/Pexels)
Overcapacity in the solar PV sector has contributed to persistently low panel prices, creating challenges for manufacturers. (Image Credit/Source: Michael Pointner/Pexels)
ESMC expects the European Commission’s general policy objectives to be supported by targeted, quick, and impactful measures for the PV manufacturing sector. (Image Source: ESMC)
The Accelerated Partnership for Renewable Energy in Central Asia (APRECA) was launched to fast-track investments and enhance inter-regional connectivity.
(Image Source: IRENA)
Himachal allocates 300 MW for private solar projects in which 62 MW are active. (Image Source:TomFisk/Pexels)