ISLAMABAD — The government has replaced Pakistan’s net-metering system with net-billing, affecting 456,000 solar energy consumers. Power Minister Sardar Awais Leghari said the move ensures fair pricing and prevents overcharging on the national grid. Critics warn the change could discourage clean energy adoption despite government assurances.
Leghari explained that only 8-10 percent of solar consumers currently use net-metering, and the policy aims to balance costs for all electricity users. He said the average generation cost across hydel, solar, wind, nuclear, gas, and coal sources is Rs8.31 per unit. In comparison, net-metering paid Rs27 per unit, creating pricing disparities that the new regulation seeks to correct.
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The minister emphasized that existing net-metering users would keep their Rs27 purchase rate due to contractual obligations, but new rates under net-billing could reduce profits from 50 percent to 37 percent annually. He said the move would lower electricity costs for general consumers by Rs1-1.5 per unit. Leghari insisted no user would incur losses while the system becomes more equitable.
Opposition MNA Sharmila Faruqui called the policy “broad daylight robbery” and criticized the government for punishing consumers who supported clean energy initiatives. She argued the Power Division is unfairly transferring costs from inefficiencies and line losses to solar prosumers. The dispute reflects growing tensions over the government’s energy pricing and renewable energy policies.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed a review of the regulation and instructed the Power Division to halt net-billing temporarily. The government will also develop strategies to minimize financial burdens on other consumers while protecting renewable energy investors. Meanwhile, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) will hold hearings before finalizing any policy changes.