The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has introduced strict new guidelines for solar panel installations across the province to ensure safety and prevent accidents. Director General Irfan Ali Kathia emphasized that only experts approved by the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB) should install solar systems.
The PDMA has also ordered an immediate inspection of existing solar setups on sensitive public buildings, including schools, hospitals, and government offices, to verify compliance with safety standards. Kathia directed municipal authorities to enforce regulations strictly and launch public awareness campaigns through local media, mosques, and community leaders.
Key technical requirements include secure panel installation using stainless steel fasteners, proper cable management with standard ties, and elevated placement of inverters and batteries. The guidelines also recommend high-impact-rated solar panels to withstand hailstorms and surge protection devices to prevent electrical hazards.
The move comes as solar panel prices in Pakistan have dropped significantly, with some A-grade panels now costing as low as Rs. 16,500—a 25% decline in Sindh. However, the Solar Association has opposed the government’s recent decision to slash net metering rates, warning it could harm the industry.
PDMA’s measures aim to balance renewable energy expansion with public safety, ensuring that substandard installations do not endanger lives or property.
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