Pakistan Stays Committed to Solar Energy Policy Amid Net-Metering Changes

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s dedication to renewable energy, ensuring that the country’s solar energy policy remains unchanged. Amid growing concerns about Solar Energy Policy shifts, the Prime Minister emphasized that solarisation continues to be a national priority.

Government Reaffirms Solar Commitment

In a high-level meeting on energy matters, PM Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to dispel any public confusion regarding the Solar Energy Policy policy. He highlighted that renewable energy remains a key component of Pakistan’s long-term energy strategy.

This statement comes at a crucial time when the government is introducing changes to solar net-metering regulations, raising concerns among solar energy consumers.

Buyback Rate for Solar Net-Metering Reduced

A major policy adjustment was recently approved by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), reducing the buyback rate for excess solar electricity fed into the grid from Rs27 to Rs10 per unit. This revision reflects the rapid rise in solar net-metering consumers and aims to balance the financial impact on grid electricity users.

According to the ECC, future adjustments to the buyback rate will be periodically reviewed by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) to ensure flexibility and market alignment.

However, existing net-metering consumers with valid licenses or agreements under the 2015 NEPRA regulations will continue to benefit from their current rates until their agreements expire.

Federal Energy Minister: No Barriers to Solarisation

Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Leghari, on March 16, dismissed speculations and reports circulating on social media regarding the government’s stance on solar energy. He clarified that the government has not imposed any taxes on solar panels and has never discouraged solar adoption. Furthermore, he claimed that the number of solar net-metering consumers is expected to increase under the new regulations.

Electricity Tariff Relief on the Horizon

During the review meeting, PM Shehbaz Sharif also directed the Power Division, Water Resources Division, and Petroleum Division to collaborate on a comprehensive energy strategy. He hinted at an upcoming electricity tariff relief package aimed at reducing consumers’ power costs.

Government is pushing forward with privatizing power distribution companies and liquidating underperforming generation companies to improve efficiency in the energy sector.

Looking Ahead: A Balanced Energy Future?

As Pakistan navigates its energy challenges, the government remains firm on expanding renewable energy sources while managing economic and infrastructural constraints. While the net-metering policy adjustments may pose concerns for some consumers, the broader commitment to solar energy is expected to drive further investments in the sector.

With renewable energy at the center of national energy plans, the coming months will reveal how these policy shifts impact Pakistan’s transition towards a more sustainable and affordable power future.

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