Solar energy critical to Pakistan’s industrial competitiveness, export growth: FPCCI

LAHORE, Jul 02 (APP): Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) President Atif Ikram Sheikh Thursday emphasized that promotion of solar energy is no longer an option but a strategic necessity for Pakistan’s industrial competitiveness, export growth, energy security, and long-term economic sustainability.

He added that ensuring industries have access to affordable, reliable and environmentally sustainable energy is essential for strengthening the country’s economy and enhancing its global competitiveness.

Addressing a press conference here at FPCCI Regional Office, Atif Ikram announced that Pakistan Solar Association (PSA) will organize Solar and Storage Expo 2026 from July 10 to 12, 2026 here at Lahore Expo Centre. The three-day exhibition will occupy three exhibition halls and feature more than 70 international and 70 local brands, showcasing cutting-edge solar technologies, advanced energy storage solutions, and the latest innovations in renewable energy products and services.

FPCCI Regional Chairman and Vice President Zaki Aijaz, PSA Chairman Waqas Musa, former Chairman  Aamir Pervez, senior leader Adil Mahmood, along with other industry representatives, urged the federal and provincial governments to introduce a special concessional financing scheme at a markup rate of just 3 percent for the purchase of solar batteries. They noted that such an initiative would enable industries, particularly in Punjab, to adopt cost-effective energy solutions, reduce production costs, and enhance their competitiveness in international markets.

Zaki Aijaz commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the government’s decision not to impose additional taxes on solar panels, batteries, and inverters, describing it as a welcome and business-friendly measure that would benefit industry, commerce, and consumers alike. He, however, emphasized that further policy interventions are required to accelerate the nationwide adoption of green energy.

He observed that Pakistan continues to face significant challenges, including high electricity tariffs, escalating production costs, heavy reliance on imported fuels, and growing environmental concerns, all of which are undermining industrial productivity and economic growth.

He pointed out that countries around the world are strengthening their economies by investing in renewable energy, while Pakistan possesses abundant solar resources throughout the year—a natural advantage that must be fully leveraged.

Zaki Aijaz stated that a large-scale transition of industries to solar energy would substantially reduce electricity costs, lower manufacturing expenses, improve the international competitiveness of Pakistani products, boost exports, conserve valuable foreign exchange reserves, reduce carbon emissions, and promote environmentally sustainable industrial development.

He also welcomed the Government of Pakistan’s target of transitioning 30 percent of the country’s vehicles to Electric Vehicles (EVs) by 2027. He urged the government to accelerate the adoption of electric mobility by introducing attractive incentives, expanding EV charging infrastructure, and providing affordable financing facilities to consumers and businesses.

The FPCCI reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that promote renewable energy, strengthen industrial competitiveness, and contribute to Pakistan’s transition towards a greener, more resilient, and sustainable economy.