Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the authorities concerned to expedite the pace of work on the nationwide solarization projects.

Chairing a high-level review meeting on the progress of the country-wide solarization projects in Islamabad on Wednesday, he said a developing country like Pakistan cannot afford to generate electricity with expensive imported fuel.

The Prime Minister directed to remove all hindrances regarding import of solar panels and related equipment. He asked to ensure of import the panels in phases.

Shehbaz Sharif said low-cost solar power generation will save valuable foreign exchange of the country.

He asked the authorities concerned to accelerate the progress on the project of solarization of federal government buildings.

The meeting was told that tenders have been issued for 17 government buildings for which bids have been received while the tenders for another 50 buildings will be issued tomorrow.

While informing the meeting about the 600 MW Kot Addu project, it was told that the tender for this project has also been issued in which a large number of local and international companies are showing interest in investment.

It was further informed that the progress regarding the projects of 1200 MW in Layyah and 600 MW in Jhang is in the final stages.