WEB DESK: Energy Minister Ovais Leghari clarified that there has been no indication from the government about discontinuing net metering.
Addressing concerns raised during the Senate session regarding taxes on solar energy consumers, he emphasised that unfounded rumors are circulating regarding net metering.
Furthermore, the Director-General of the Meteorological Department forecasts the onset of monsoon season by the second week of June.
In the power sector, reforms are underway, with over 1500 megawatts of electricity generated from private solar systems.
In addition, there is a commitment to foster investment in solar systems, with no alterations in policy concerning net metering.
Previously, there were reports of potential net metering rate hikes due to the surge in solar panel installations.
As per reports, consumers currently benefit from a Rs. 21 per unit rate in net metering, although the government is contemplating reducing it to Rs. 11 per unit, resulting in a Rs. 10 per unit loss for consumers.
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The government’s strategy regarding capacity charges due to widespread solar panel installation has encountered imbalances.
Reports suggest that affluent individuals are installing solar panels, while the burden of electricity charges is being disproportionately borne by less affluent consumers.
Those investing in solar panels are recuperating their costs within a year and a half. The government aims to extend this recovery period to 10 years.
Presently in Pakistan, solar panels with a capacity of producing 6,000 megawatts of electricity have been imported, with solar energy contributing up to 3,000 megawatts to electricity production.
