PDMA to Regulate Rooftop Solar Panels in Punjab Amid Safety Concerns

In a decisive move to address rising safety concerns, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued directives to all deputy commissioners across Punjab to prepare and implement rules and regulations for solar panel installations.

The PDMA’s letter emphasizes the need for safe mounting, particularly on rooftops and open-air structures, as numerous accidents have been linked to substandard installations. According to DG PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia, nearly 70% of reported incidents during storms involve poorly installed or low-quality solar panels. “Panels installed on weak poles or unstable surfaces often break loose in high winds, causing serious damage,” he noted.

The authority has now directed district administrations to allow only certified and standard-compliant solar panels, and to initiate regular inspections to ensure safety.

This development coincides with a turbulent period in Pakistan’s solar sector. Despite a growing demand for off-grid solutions due to rising electricity tariffs, the government’s recent reduction of the net-metering buyback rate from Rs20 to Rs10 per unit has negatively impacted solar investments.

However, May 2025 brings a silver lining for consumers: vendors report a mild decline in prices, particularly for small to mid-scale systems. A 1KW solar setup, for instance, is now available between Rs175,000 and Rs180,000 — making solar energy more affordable for small households and businesses.