The government is reconsidering its decision to change the solar net metering policy after receiving criticism from consumers and business groups. The move to reduce the buyback rate of solar energy from Rs27 to Rs10 per unit had sparked backlash, leading officials to promise a more inclusive approach.
During a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, it was decided that all stakeholders would be consulted before finalizing any changes. The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) had earlier approved amendments to net metering rules, but the government now aims to revise them based on feedback.
Many people and businesses had raised concerns that the proposed changes would slow down the adoption of solar energy, contradicting the government’s stated goal of promoting renewable energy. In response, the prime minister assured the public that renewable energy remains a top priority, directing officials to clear up any confusion regarding the policy.
Under the proposed rules, electricity companies would buy excess solar power from consumers at a significantly lower rate while charging much higher prices for grid electricity. Additionally, new restrictions would limit how much solar capacity consumers could install beyond their sanctioned load. Existing solar users would gradually come under the new policy once their contracts expired.
The government is now taking a step back to reassess the situation. Officials have been asked to gather opinions from all relevant parties before finalizing any changes. The revised recommendations will be submitted to the ECC for further review in the coming weeks.
