ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) is expected to hold a public hearing on the revised buyback rates for net-metering consumers, following guidelines from the Power Division after formal approval from the federal cabinet, sources revealed.
The Economic Coordination Committee’s (ECC) recent decision on net-metering has raised concerns among existing and potential solar consumers, as well as companies installing solar PV systems. Consumer groups may challenge the proposed revisions, arguing they contradict the government’s commitment to promoting clean energy.
Introduced in 2015 to address energy shortfalls and boost renewable energy adoption, net-metering has significantly expanded, with installed capacity surging from 5 MW in 2017 to 4,135 MW by December 2024. If the current growth continues, installations could exceed 14,000 MW by FY-2034.
The Power Division contends that net-metering consumers avoid fixed charges, contributing to rising electricity tariffs for grid users. It estimates a Rs 101 billion financial burden on grid consumers in FY-2024 due to sales reductions, with projections reaching Rs 545 billion by FY-2034. Moreover, concerns over grid instability, reverse power flow, and pricing disparities have been raised.
With growing debate over net-metering’s future, stakeholders await Nepra’s public hearing, which could shape Pakistan’s clean energy trajectory.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
