ApnaSolar Daily Roundup: Government Clears Net-Metering Backlog, VPP Frameworks Proposed, and Panel Prices Dip
Government Orders DISCOs to Clear Legacy Net-Metering Applications
In a major relief for rooftop solar adopters, Pakistan’s Power Division and NEPRA have instructed all power distribution companies (DISCOs) and the Pakistan Information Technology Company (PITC) to clear backlogged net-metering applications. The directive specifically protects consumers who paid their demand notices and completed formalities prior to the February 9 cut-off date. By expediting these applications, authorities are ensuring eligible applicants can lock in legacy net-metering benefits rather than being shifted to the lower buyback rates of the newer net-billing regime.
Energy Experts Propose Virtual Power Plants to Leverage Household Batteries
Following Pakistan's rapid distributed solar expansion, energy analysts and industry leaders are advocating for the institutionalization of Virtual Power Plant (VPP) buyback frameworks across local DISCOs. Under the proposed model, solar system owners equipped with battery storage would store surplus daytime power and export it back to the grid during peak evening hours. This initiative aims to alleviate grid stress during high-demand periods, lower peak generation costs, and drive adoption of solar-plus-storage solutions.
Solar Panel Prices See Significant August Dip Amid Market Stability
Pakistani solar buyers are benefiting from a notable drop in Tier-1 A-grade module prices, with rates landing between Rs 37 and Rs 46 per watt. The price decline is driven by global module oversupply from Chinese manufacturers, a stabilized rupee against the US dollar, and the government's decision to drop a proposed 18% GST increase in favor of retaining the 10% rate. This price window provides residential and commercial consumers an advantageous entry point for investing in modern N-type TOPCon panels.
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