In a landmark move toward sustainable energy and environmental responsibility, the Higher Education Department (HED) and the Energy Department, Government of Punjab, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Solarization of Public Colleges and Buildings Project. The signing ceremony, held in Lahore, was graced by Punjab’s Minister for Education, Mr Rana Sikandar Hayat, as the Chief Guest.
The agreement marks a significant step toward promoting renewable energy, cost efficiency, and green development in the province’s higher education sector. Secretary HED Mr Ghulam Farid and Secretary Energy Dr Farrukh Naveed signed the MoU in the presence of senior officials, college principals, and divisional directors.
Under the project, 355 public colleges across Punjab — including 176 for boys and 179 for women — will be solarized in three phases. Phase I includes 43 colleges and 24 EV charging stations, Phase II will cover 190 colleges and 67 EV stations, while Phase III targets 122 colleges and 44 EV stations.
With a total solar capacity of over 21,500 kW, the initiative is expected to generate 24.5 million electricity units annually, resulting in savings of approximately PKR 1.346 billion each year. The total project cost is estimated at PKR 2.941 billion. Additionally, an 80 kW solar system will be installed at the new HED Anarkali Building to further promote energy conservation.
Addressing the ceremony, Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat highlighted that the initiative supports the Chief Minister Punjab’s vision of a “Clean and Green Punjab.” He commended both departments for their collaborative efforts in advancing sustainable progress and reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.
Secretary HED Mr Ghulam Farid expressed gratitude to the Energy Department for its technical support and stressed the importance of transparency and timely execution. Secretary Energy Dr Farrukh Naveed reaffirmed his department’s commitment to providing full technical assistance to ensure the project’s success.
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The joint venture represents a unified effort to transform Punjab’s public sector colleges into models of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.