LAHORE: The Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), has initiated a comprehensive feasibility review for the Route 47 Solarization Project to align the initiative with the latest regulatory framework and ensure its long-term technical and financial sustainability.
As part of its commitment to developing environmentally responsible urban infrastructure, the CBD Punjab is reassessing the project following recent changes introduced by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) which transitioned the electricity compensation mechanism from net metering to net billing. The revised policy has significantly impacted the project’s financial assumptions making it necessary to update the original feasibility and investment model.
The Route 47 Solarization Project was initially planned at an estimated cost of approximately PKR 135 million. However, in light of the revised regulatory framework, the CBD Punjab has commissioned the National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK) to conduct a fresh technical and financial assessment. The study will evaluate the project’s revised implementation cost, return on investment (ROI), operational benefits, and long-term economic viability under the new net billing regime.
The updated feasibility will also examine alternative implementation strategies to ensure the project continues to deliver maximum value while supporting CBD Punjab’s vision of sustainable and climate-resilient urban development. Upon completion of the study, the Authority will proceed with the project in accordance with the consultant’s recommendations and initiate a fresh procurement process under the revised project parameters.
Speaking on the development, Asif Iqbal, Director Project Management, CBD Punjab, said, “The transition from net metering to net billing has necessitated a complete reassessment of the Route 47 Solarization Project. We are reviewing all previously prepared feasibility studies to ensure they accurately reflect the current regulatory environment. NESPAK is presently undertaking a comprehensive study to determine the project’s revised return on investment, financial benefits, and overall viability. Once the updated report is finalized, the CBD Punjab will move forward with the project based on its recommendations, ensuring an efficient, sustainable, and economically sound implementation.”
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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