LAHORE: Federal Minister for Energy Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari reaffirmed on Sunday that the government has no intention of ending the solar net-metering policy.
Addressing media reports that suggested a shift to a gross-metering mechanism, Minister Leghari clarified that the net metering policy, which allows consumers to sell excess electricity generated by their solar systems back to the grid, would remain in place. This policy significantly reduces electricity bills for consumers.
In contrast, the proposed gross metering mechanism would require consumers to feed all generated electricity into the national grid and then buy back what they need, potentially reducing financial benefits.
Speaking at a press conference at the Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) headquarters, Leghari emphasized the government’s commitment to solar power, noting that the policy was initiated by PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and continues to be a priority for Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif.
“PML-N introduced this scheme [solar net-metering] in 2017, and we will continue supporting it because it has greatly benefited many people,” said Leghari. He assured consumers with existing net-metering contracts that their agreements would remain unaffected.
The minister also mentioned that any future changes to the policy would involve consultation with all stakeholders. He highlighted the increasing popularity of net metering, noting a 125% rise in applications for licenses in 2023-24, and reported that 0.3% of total electricity consumers now have rooftop solar net-metering connections, totaling 113,000.
Discussing broader power sector issues, Leghari noted an 8% reduction in electricity demand due to a decline in industrial growth. He also directed the Lesco CEO to address system constraints to prevent overloading during hot weather.
Criticizing the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government without naming it, Leghari expressed displeasure over the politicization of power theft issues and urged the KP Chief Minister to present a viable plan for controlling power theft within 15 days.
