The Punjab government has earmarked Rs12 billion to transition agricultural tube wells in the province to solar power.

In a meeting held at Agriculture House on Monday to discuss the implementation of this initiative under the “Transforming Punjab Agriculture Program,” Secretary Agriculture Iftikhar Ali Sahoo emphasized that this move will help reduce energy costs for farmers.

He mentioned that the Agriculture Extension Department will provide data on cultivation patterns in specific regions, while the irrigation department will offer information on underground water levels, with districts having low water tables excluded from the scheme. Additionally, the Water Management department will conduct laser land leveling in districts irrigated by solar-powered tube wells.

The Energy Department will vet companies providing solar systems, selecting those with strong technical and financial credentials. Quality materials will be utilized for solar system installation, and the Agriculture Department will oversee the application process, with successful farmers chosen through transparent balloting.