ApnaSolar Energy Roundup: Net-Metering Backlog Relief, Rising Grid Tariffs, and Solar's Impact on LNG Deals
Power Division Directs DISCOs to Clear Net-Metering Application Backlog
In a major relief for solar prosumers, the Power Division has instructed all electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) and the Pakistan Information Technology Company (PITC) to clear pending net-metering applications. Following directives from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), the instruction specifically targets cases where consumers completed formalities and paid demand notices prior to the February 9 regulatory cut-off date. PITC has been tasked with updating billing software and system records immediately to ensure eligible applicants are connected without further procedural hurdles.
Surging Solar Capacity Prompts Calls to Reassess Long-Term LNG Contracts
At an energy dialogue organized by the Parliamentary Forum on Energy and Economy in Islamabad, parliamentarians and energy experts revealed that Pakistan's combined solar capacity has reached an estimated 50 GW across residential, commercial, and off-grid installations. Speakers urged the federal government to refrain from signing rigid, long-term "take-or-pay" LNG import deals that risk worsening circular debt. With rooftop solar significantly cutting daytime grid demand, experts emphasized the need for flexible fuel procurement alongside accelerated deployment of battery energy storage systems (BESS).
DISCOs Petition NEPRA for Rs2.52/Unit Fuel Adjustment as Generation Costs Rise
Power distribution companies have requested NEPRA's approval to collect an additional Rs2.52 per unit under the Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA) for electricity consumed in July, totaling roughly Rs36.5 billion in proposed recoveries. Average generation costs in July climbed 38% year-on-year to Rs10.75/kWh due to elevated costs for imported RLNG and oil-based power generation. This persistent tariff volatility underscores the financial benefit for Pakistani homeowners and businesses moving toward solar self-consumption and battery storage to shield themselves from grid price shocks.
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