Govt Finalizes Revised Net Metering Policy to Boost Solar Energy

The Federal Minister for Energy, Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, announced on Thursday that a revised net metering policy has been finalized and will be rolled out within a month following approval from the federal cabinet.

Speaking at an energy workshop in Islamabad, Leghari emphasized the government’s intent to facilitate a sustainable transition toward renewable energy to reduce the overall cost of electricity.

He noted that although fuel cost adjustments have increased due to water shortages impacting hydropower generation, the overall electricity prices are seeing a decline.

He further highlighted several reforms introduced in the past year, stating, “Electricity prices are continuously coming down. A major shift to solar energy has taken place in both the agricultural and industrial sectors.”

Industrial tariffs have been reduced by 30%, and nearly 3,000 MW of furnace oil-based capacity has been phased out to cut reliance on expensive imported fuels.

A surplus of 7,000 MW in electricity due to reduced demand over the last few years has enabled the government to move towards establishing a competitive electricity market.

The upcoming net metering policy will define updated terms for solar energy contribution by households and businesses, paving the way for broader solar adoption across the country.