Solar panel prices in Pakistan have risen sharply in recent weeks, with imported Chinese panels becoming significantly more expensive due to higher global raw material costs and strong demand in the local market.
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Traders say prices of Chinese solar panels with capacities of 585 watts, 645 watts and 720 watts have increased by an average of Rs5,000 per unit. A 585-watt panel, which previously sold for Rs16,000 to Rs17,000, is now priced between Rs20,000 and Rs21,000. Similarly, the cost of a 645-watt panel has risen from around Rs20,000 to Rs24,000–25,000, while a 720-watt panel now sells for Rs30,000 to Rs35,000, up from Rs22,000–25,000.
Saleem Memon, a solar panel importer and vice president of the Karachi Electronics Dealers Association, said rising global prices of key raw materials such as silver and copper have significantly increased production costs for Chinese manufacturers. As a result, the per-watt price of solar panels has climbed from around Rs22 to Rs33 over the past five months.
He warned that prices could increase further if global costs continue to rise and domestic demand remains strong. “If the current trend continues, the per-watt price may reach Rs40 in the coming months,” Memon said.
He also pointed to import taxes on Chinese solar panels as a major factor contributing to higher prices in Pakistan. In addition, growing competition and rapid expansion of solar technology adoption at the local level are influencing market dynamics.
Despite the recent price surge, Memon said Pakistan currently has ample solar panel stocks due to heavy imports over the past two years, which may help prevent immediate shortages.
