The Power Division has sought a review of the current regulatory framework from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA).
As per details, the Power Division is proposing major relief for solar consumers with systems up to 25kW, including the removal of license fees and exemption from licensing requirements.
The move comes on the directives of Energy Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, who has emphasised the government’s commitment to promoting solar energy and easing the burden on consumers. The Power Division has urged NEPRA to restore earlier, more facilitative regulations for small-scale solar users.
Officials stated that the government is pursuing a pro-solar, pro-consumer policy aimed at encouraging the adoption of clean energy, reducing costs, and eliminating unnecessary regulatory hurdles.
The Power Division also noted that it had previously highlighted the adverse impact of recent decisions by NEPRA and had requested a return to the earlier regulatory regime to better support solar consumers.
Earlier, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) issued a clarification on solar licensing, saying misinformation is being circulated on the issue.
On the issue of solar licensing, NEPRA has clarified the situation, stating that incorrect information has been circulating. According to NEPRA officials, misinformation has been spread regarding solar licensing, claiming that all solar net billing customers must obtain approval from NEPRA.
Officials explained that the authority to approve connections with a capacity of less than 25 kW lies with distribution companies, and off-grid customers are not required to seek NEPRA’s approval.
They further stated that, before the new regulations, NEPRA approved connections above 25 kW. A one-time fee of Rs 1,000 per kW has now been imposed for on-grid solar connections. Officials also clarified that no new tax has been imposed on solar energy.
It is worth mentioning here that NEPRA in the month of April had introduced a major change in the basic electricity tariff structure. Under the new formula, electricity bills will no longer depend solely on the number of units consumed.
According to the details, NEPRA has approved a fundamental revision to the tariff structure at the request of the federal government. This decision has raised concerns about a significant increase in electricity bills for consumers across the country, according to media reports.
Under the new system, fixed charges will be determined based on a consumer’s approved load rather than electricity consumption (units). This new framework will come into effect from January 2026 and will apply to all domestic consumers, except for lifeline consumers.
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