ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Power Division and government of Gilgit-Baltistan to develop a mechanism for distribution of solar panels, confiscated by Customs at Karachi, in designated cities and organize a distribution ceremony for the Prime Minister, sources close to Chairman FBR told Business Recorder .’ He issued these directions while presiding over a meeting about “Gwadar power supply reliability and 100 MWs solar projects in Gilgit Baltistan.” The Prime Minister argued that 40 MW power plant at Gwadar be classified as strategic project adding that the case for necessary approvals be placed before the Cabinet within two weeks. Solar power growth creates challenges to national grid: expert The timelines presented for solarization of pumping stations and desalination plants in Gwadar shall be reviewed for early completion. Power Division has been tasked to share update with the Prime Minister on this matter. Power Division shall provide support to the government of Balochistan in designing, bidding and execution processes of solarization of pumping stations and desalination plants in Gwadar. Bidding results of the rooftop solar component in Gilgit Baltistan shall be presented to the Prime Minister prior to contract award by the Power Division. Minister Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari has been directed to apprise Minister Information and Broadcasting, Ataullah Tarar on GB 100 MW solar project for public awareness, especially in GB. Also, third party validation of the 100 MW solar project shall be carried out. The Prime Minister has also directed the Power Division to review timelines for the rooftop solar component in GB for an early completion. Power Division shall consider splitting the 82 MW utility-scale solar component for ease of bidding process, healthy competition, and early completion. The Prime Minister directed Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan to ensure timely availability of land and completion of non-solar infrastructure works for utility-scale Solar PV projects. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025