Call for tax cuts on local solar panel production in Pakistan

Senator Aon Abbas stresses regulations to keep a check on solar panel installation and their pricing
An undated image. —  iStock
An undated image. — iStock

In line with the rapid adoption of solar panels in the country, the Senate Standing Committee on Industries and Production on Thursday called to implement tax cuts on locally manufactured solar panels.

On the other hand, the committee was of the view that duties on imported solar panels should be increased.

This was brought to light during a parliamentary session presided over by Senator Aon Abbas, with panellists noting that the issue of solar panel taxes would be brought to the Senate.

Parliamentarians expressed hopes that the government would reduce taxes on the local production of solar panels while enforcing more taxes on imported panels, a move experts believe will uplift local industry.

While addressing concerns over the disrupted chain of supply and demand, Abbas stressed regulations to keep a check on solar panel installation and their pricing.

The Engineering Development Board (EDB) updated the senator on the progress of the country’s solar policy.

He enquired EDB whether the government or Independent Power Producers (IPPs) were impeding solarisation across the country.

Given the active formation of the Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, Abbas maintained that the installation of electric chargers at fuel stations across Pakistan was crucial to encourage eco-friendly practices.