In a move aimed at reducing the nation’s energy consumption and improving efficiency, the federal government has announced the launch of a countrywide fan replacement programme that will encourage the transition to energy-efficient electric fans. The initiative is part of broader economic and energy sector reforms intended to promote sustainable power use and alleviate pressure on the national grid.
According to a press release by the Ministry of Finance, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired a high-level meeting on Monday to review the progress of the Prime Minister’s Fan Replacement Programme. The meeting was attended by Power Minister Awais Leghari, Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, and other senior officials from various sectors.
The meeting was convened to evaluate the progress made so far and to accelerate preparations for the launch of the programme, which is expected to roll out in phases across the country. Key stakeholders presented updates on the groundwork, particularly focusing on administrative, technological, and financial frameworks required for successful implementation.
The National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) briefed participants on the current status of the project. Officials noted that several critical prerequisites are near completion. These include the finalization of agreements with participating banks, the integration of banking systems to streamline payment and subsidy processes, and the technological facilitation being provided by the Punjab Technology Investment Board and the Power Information Technology Company (PITC).
These two entities are reportedly developing digital and tech-based solutions to ensure speedy and transparent execution of the programme. Their role is to create a framework through which consumers can easily access and replace outdated fans with newer, energy-saving alternatives, likely at subsidized rates or through easy financing options.
Addressing the attendees, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasized the programme’s potential to drive behavioural change among consumers, promote energy conservation, and contribute to the nation’s economic stability. “This programme can positively influence energy usage patterns, reduce electricity bills for households, and provide long-term economic benefits,” he stated.
He further highlighted the government’s commitment to launching initiatives that support environmental responsibility while offering financial incentives for adoption. Minister Aurangzeb also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, especially those in the banking sector, for their proactive engagement in enabling the financial structure of this national project.
Stressing the urgency of moving forward, the finance minister directed that all remaining procedural and logistical actions be completed within the next two to three weeks. The goal is to initiate the first phase of the programme — along with the participation of an initial group of selected banks — by the end of the current month.
This timeline reflects the government’s determination to roll out tangible reforms that deliver measurable results in both energy efficiency and economic productivity. The availability of energy-efficient appliances, especially in high-usage categories like ceiling fans, is expected to reduce overall power demand significantly — a crucial need during Pakistan’s peak summer months when load-shedding and power shortages are common.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with all participating departments and institutions reaffirming their commitment to the timely and effective implementation of the programme. Officials stressed that this initiative is aligned with the government’s broader reform strategy, which seeks to make Pakistan’s energy sector more resilient, sustainable, and consumer-friendly.
Once launched, the Prime Minister’s Fan Replacement Programme is expected to offer direct benefits to millions of households across Pakistan, while also serving as a model for similar energy-efficiency projects in the future.
