Electricity is getting expensive with every passing day, and this frustrates us all. Just a day ago, Nepra announced electricity price increase for June-August 2024. And this is October, and there has been price hikes almost every month. “I can’t take it anymore,” you may think. One way to tackle the issue of uncertain electricity prices is to embrace energy independence. And the most workable way to achieve this energy independence is by going solar. It is a quick, easy, and affordable solution.
But how much is affordable? What’s the average solar system price in Pakistan? And what affects the price of solar system in Pakistan?
Stay with us for 5 minutes, as in this latest article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the price of solar systems in Pakistan.
We will talk about:
- The average price of solar systems in Pakistan.
- Cost of individual equipment—solar panels, inverters, hardware, mounting structure, installation, etc.
- Prices of popular solar system sizes, such as 3kW, 5kW, 6kW, 7kW, etc.
- What affects the solar system cost in Pakistan?
- How to choose a solar system for your home that works best?
But first, a few things you need to know.
What Does the Solar System Cost Include?
Solar systems are not just made of solar panels. There are inverters that convert the DC electricity generated by solar panels into AC electricity that we use in our homes and offices. There are AC and DC cables and connectors that supply electricity from panels to inverters. Also, the solar panels have to be mounted on something, so the cost of mounting structures is also included. Plus, the duct pipes and DP boxes, and other allied accessories.
If you would install an on-grid or hybrid system, you would also have to include the cost of the net metering license. Plus, the cost of batteries, if you would like a hybrid solar system or an off-grid solar system. Lastly, the installation and documentation cost.
The costs of all these things are included in the price of your solar systems by default unless mentioned by the installer or requested by you otherwise.
Average Solar System Price in Pakistan
The average price of a solar system in Pakistan ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 160 per watt. This includes the cost of solar panels, inverters, installation, hardware, earthing & civil works, net metering, and mounting structure. The difference in this diverse range is due to many factors. For example, a standard mounting structure cost around 25,000 to 40,000 for 5kW. But if you want it customized, the cost would be roughly PKR 100,000. Similarly, other factors, such as whether there is net metering or not shall also be considered.
So, based on this, if you want to install a 5kW solar system, you can expect to pay between Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 800,000 (per October 2024).
But this is the average price—given the volatile conditions, the prices of solar panels fluctuate daily (See the graph below). The actual cost of your solar system would depend upon the applicable prices of solar panels on that day, your goals, the quality of components you prefer, and so on. For instance, in the beginning of 2023, we have installed 6kW solar systems at around 1.2 million. But last month, we installed a 12kW solar system at a marbles factory in Ghauri Town in Rs. 1.3 million, which included customized structure, net metering and everything else.
There could be scenarios where your 5kW system could cost you only Rs. 550,000 (including with net metering)—but then you will have to compromise on the quality of solar panels and inverter, for instance, installing B-grade panels from a good brand and low-quality inverter. B-grade panels cost a few thousands rupees less than A-grade solar panels per watt.
To give you a better idea, it would be appropriate to give you the prices of each of the equipment. That way, you can estimate the price of a solar system you want.
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We’re customer-centric; we will find you a solution within your budget. Whatever your project size, you can always save with Ecospark Solar.
Price of Solar Panels
Solar panels are a fundamental component of any solar power system. In Pakistan, the cost of solar panels can vary depending on several factors, including the brand and type of panels. The prices I mention below are for A-grade solar panels from reputable brands, such as Longi, Jinko, and JA.
On average, you can expect to pay around PKR 30 to PKR 35 per watt (W) of solar panel capacity. This is the price of October 2024. At the beginning of 2023, these costs were around Rs. 120-128 per watt, but due to the recent rally of PKR and the ease of import, the prices have come down significantly—you can see the graph below. So, one 550W panel of Longi could cost you around 18,000. Do the math, and you will come to know the price of solar panels based on how many panels you need.
Read how much power can one solar panel produce and how to size your solar system to estimate the price of your desired system.
Keep in mind that high-quality, more efficient panels may have a higher upfront cost but can lead to greater long-term savings by generating more electricity.
Want more insights into solar panels prices? Read more about the prices of different brands of solar panels in Pakistan.
Cost of Inverter
When it comes to the cost of inverters, there is a huge difference between the prices. There are different types of inverters, from locally manufactured average quality to local high-quality and imported. The price of inverters also depends upon whether it is single-phase or 3-phase.
If we talk about the range, the price of inverters can range from PKR 35,000 to PKR 60,000 per kW, depending on your chosen brand. That means you can buy a 5kW inverter for around Rs. 200,000-300,000. Note that the price of inverters has much to do with the brand—there are some brands whose 5kW inverter can be purchased for around PKR 180,00. However, the cost per watt price of the inverter is not linear—it comes down as the size of the inverter grows bigger. For example, the price of a good 5kW inverter would be 230,000, 10kW around 400,000, and 15kW around 550,000. That means the cost per watt for 5kW is roughly 45,000, but it is 40,000 for 10kW and 35,000 for 15kW.
3-phase inverters are rather expensive, some of them, such as Inverex Fronius, are within the range of around 100,000 per kW.
Finally, there are local inverters which can be bought in Rs. 30,000 to 50,000. But they are not reliable and can affect the performance of your household appliances.
Cost of Mounting Structure
The mounting structure is the framework that holds the solar panels in place and ensures they are positioned optimally for sunlight exposure. The cost of the mounting structures varies based on factors the size of the installation and the type of structure required (roof-mounted, ground-mounted, or pole-mounted). Also, on the material—whether it is galvanized steel or aluminum, etc.
You can expect to spend around PKR 4,000 to PKR 6,000 per kW for a quality mounting structure. But this is for the standard mounting structure; if you want a customized structure, the cost could quickly become Rs. 20,000 per kilo-watt. So, for a 5kW solar system, the customized mounting structure could be around Rs. 100,000.
Cost of Installation
Professional installation is another cost that you will have to include in the overall cost of solar power systems. Installation costs depend on the complexity of the project, location, and labor costs. In Pakistan, installation costs typically range from PKR 10,000 to PKR 20,000 per kW.
I would recommend hiring only experienced installers to ensure the system is correctly set up for maximum efficiency and safety. Because in solar systems installation, much has to do with the workmanship (the installation expertise) of the concerned company. Do it from a local electrician, and you may run into problems.
Net Metering Cost
Net metering is a mechanism through which you can export the excess energy generated by your system to the grid—which is later credited to your electricity bill. In Pakistan, the cost of net metering installation and setup may vary depending on your utility provider, the size of the system, and the specific requirements.
On average, it can cost around Rs. 100,000 for a standard residential solar system. This includes the documentation cost, green meter cost, licensing cost, government fee (DISCO/NEPRA), and the fee of the AEDB-accredited installer. The cost of name change of the meter and sanction load extension will be additional to this, if required.
Cost of Solar Batteries
If you want to install a hybrid or off-grid system, you must keep in mind the price of batteries. There is a huge difference in the battery price depending on the type of technology you want. But I will give you a figure: one 200Ah lead-acid can cost you around PKR 50,000 to 80,000. As far as lithium batteries are concerned, they’re quite expensive. At times, one battery would cost you upwards of PKR 500,000, though it will have more capacity than a 200Ah lead-acid battery.
Related Read: Lead-Acid vs. Lithium-ion Solar Batteries: Which Is Best for Solar?
Hardware Cost
Apart from the major components mentioned above, there are miscellaneous hardware costs, such as wiring, connectors, and electrical accessories. These costs can add up to around PKR 8,000 to PKR 12,000 per kW.
Average Prices of Popular Solar System Sizes
Based on the estimates above, let’s mention the average prices of some of the popular solar system sizes—such as 3kW, 5kW, 6kW, 7kW, 10kW, 15kW, and 20kW solar system.
Before discussing the cost, here is a disclaimer:
The costs of the systems mentioned below are only estimates. This is because the prices of solar systems are not fixed. They vary based on the type of system you plan to install—since batteries are expensive, hybrid and off-grid solar systems are bound to be more expensive than on-grid systems. In addition, the cost also varies based on the quality of solar panels and other components. Lastly, there is quite a bit of fluctuation in the prices of solar panels, as is shown by the graph above. Contact us to get an accurate price at which you will get the system installed on your rooftop.
Average Price of 3kW Solar System in Pakistan
The 3kW solar system is suitable for smaller households in Pakistan. On average, you can expect to invest around PKR 400,000 to install this system. For an on-grid setup, where excess energy can be sold back to the grid, the cost may be slightly lower. Hybrid systems, which combine grid-tied and battery storage, typically range between PKR 450,000 to PKR 500,000, depending upon the type of batteries and brands. These estimates include the costs of everything mentioned above, including net metering.
Off-grid 3kW systems, with battery backup, may cost between PKR 500,000 and PKR 600,000 due to the added expense of storage components.
Related Read: How to Choose a Solar Battery?
Average Price of 5kW Solar System in Pakistan
5kW solar systems can work for average-sized homes and small offices in Pakistan. On average, the cost of a 5kW system hovers around PKR 750,000. On-grid 5kW systems tend to be more affordable, ranging from PKR 700,000 to PKR 800,000. Hybrid systems with battery backup, offering greater energy independence, can cost between PKR 800,000 and PKR 900,000.
Off-grid 5kW systems, ideal for remote areas, can be installed at a price range of PKR 900,000 to PKR 1,00,000 due to the necessity of ample storage capacity. Could become lower or higher, depending upon how many batteries you would like to add to your system.
Related Read: Best Battery for Solar in Pakistan: An Unbiased Analysis of 7 Battery Brands
Average Price of 6kW Solar System in Pakistan
For medium-sized homes and small businesses, a 6kW solar system could prove a practical choice. The average price of a 6kW system at the moment is approximately PKR 800,000. On-grid 6kW systems are competitively priced, often falling within the PKR 800,000 to PKR 900,000 range. For hybrid setups, you may get to pay around PKR 900,000.
As far as off-grid 6kW systems are concerned, you can install them at a cost of around PKR 1,00,000.
Average Cost of 7kW Solar System in Pakistan
The 7kW solar system is an excellent choice for larger households and small offices in Pakistan. On average, the price of a 7kW solar system is in the range of PKR 900,000 to 1,100,000. On-grid 7kW systems provide a cost-effective option, often ranging from 900,000 to 950,000. Hybrid systems, which offer grid-tied and backup capabilities, may cost between PKR 920,000 million and 1.2 million, depending upon the brand of hybrid inverter and number of batteries.
Off-grid 7kW systems, designed for complete energy independence, can range from PKR 1.1 million to 1.3 million due to the added cost of battery storage.
10kW Solar System Average Price in Pakistan
10kW solar systems are the go-to systems for larger homes and small to medium-sized businesses. On average, the cost of a 10kW solar system comes with an investment of approximately PKR 1,100,000. On-grid 10kW systems are usually priced between PKR 1.1 million to 1.25 million. Hybrid systems, on the other hand, may cost around PKR 1.35 million to PKR 1.4 million.
Off-grid 10kW systems, designed for remote areas, may cost you around 1.7 million, including sufficient battery storage.
Average Price of 15kW Solar System in Pakistan
On average, the cost of a 15kW solar system is around PKR 2 to 2.8 million.
On-grid 15kW systems, which can significantly reduce electricity bills through net metering, are typically priced between PKR 1.5 to 2.0 million. Hybrid systems, providing both grid-tied efficiency and backup power, may range from PKR 1.6 to 1.8 million. Finally, off-grid 15kW systems, suitable for remote areas or businesses with critical power needs, can cost go up to 2.2 million due to the necessity of substantial battery storage.
Average Price of 20kW Solar System in Pakistan
The 20kW solar system is a powerful solution for commercial and small industrial ventures in Pakistan. On average, you can expect to pay around PKR 2.8 million to 3 million for a 20kW solar system.
On-grid 20kW systems offer a cost-effective option, often ranging from PKR 2.5 million to PKR 2.7 million. Hybrid systems, providing grid-tied efficiency and backup power, may cost between PKR 2.8 to 3 million. The off-grid 20kW system can cost you upwards of 3.5 million, thanks to the large battery bank it requires.
Solar System Price in Pakistan: Concluding Thoughts
As we saw, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the “How much does a solar system cost in Pakistan” question. The reason is that there are too many variables involved. If you are interested in going solar, let us know, and we will help you design a system perfect for your needs. And, of course, our goal is to keep it affordable for our customers without compromising on the quality.
At Ecospark Solar, we keep it all about solar and our customers! Happy going solar. 🙂
