The federal government is preparing to end the current solar net metering system and introduce a gross metering model as part of a new national solar policy, sources revealed.
The draft policy—now in its final stages—proposes that instead of allowing solar users to offset their own electricity bills, all solar energy generated will be sold to the national grid at a fixed rate. The Power Division plans to send the policy to the federal cabinet after it receives clearance from NEPRA.
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A key proposal includes setting a buyback rate of Rs. 11.33 per unit, significantly lower than the current net metering rate of Rs. 27 per unit—nearly a 60% cut. However, this change will not affect existing net metering users, who will continue to enjoy their current rates.
Under the new model, future solar rates would be tied to one-third of the regular electricity tariff, with Rs. 11.33 as the baseline. The government also aims to add 8,500 megawatts of solar power to the national grid through this shift.
Officials argue that the existing net metering system is causing a financial strain on the broader power sector, resulting in an estimated Rs. 159 billion in additional costs, with Rs. 103 billion linked to premium solar payments.
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