Government Explains New Solar Net Billing Policy in National Assembly
The federal government defended recent changes to Pakistan’s solar energy policy during a session of the National Assembly, saying the revised framework is necessary for the stability of the power sector.
Responding to lawmakers’ concerns, Federal Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Leghari assured the house that existing solar consumers using net metering would not be affected by the updated policy.
He explained that agreements already signed with current users would remain valid, while only new applicants would fall under the revised system.
According to the minister, Pakistan is currently generating between 23,000 and 24,000 megawatts of electricity through solar energy. Around 8,000 megawatts are connected to the national grid through net metering arrangements.
Under the new policy, future applications will be processed through a net billing system instead of the previous net metering model. The government will purchase electricity from new solar consumers at Rs. 9 per unit.
The minister said the policy change has also contributed to increased imports of battery storage systems, as more consumers are choosing energy storage solutions for their homes and businesses.
He further informed lawmakers that power distribution companies are receiving a growing number of applications under the updated prosumer regulations.
During the session, the minister added that 74 percent of Pakistan’s electricity generation now comes from local energy resources, while 26 percent still relies on imported fuel sources.
