Pakistan Solar: Net-Metering Applications Before Feb 8 to Be Honored

Islamabad – Pakistan’s Power Minister Awais Leghari has directed electricity distribution companies, including K-Electric, to honor applications for net-metering solar connections received before February 8, 2026. This decision aims to address concerns regarding the transition from the existing net-metering framework to the new Prosumers Regulations 2026, which took effect on February 9th.

Government Response to Regulatory Shift

The move comes after the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) notified the Prosumers Regulations 2026, a change that reportedly negatively impacts the economic viability of rooftop solar installations for both households and industry. Prior to the new regulations, 5,165 consumers had submitted applications for net-metered connections, representing a potential capacity addition of approximately 250.8 megawatts to the national grid.

Did You Know? The decision impacts 5,165 applications for net-metered connections submitted before February 8, 2026.

Internal Opposition and Legal Considerations

Sources indicate that some of Minister Leghari’s advisors initially opposed the decision, citing concerns that it could add to the existing 6,900MW of installed net-metering capacity. They also suggested it might invite legal challenges from future applicants seeking to utilize the previous regulations. However, the minister maintained that honoring the existing applications – even if they totaled 1,500MW – was a legal and moral obligation.

Minister Leghari asserted that applicants had accrued rights under the previous framework and these rights could not be unilaterally revoked. He clarified that the directive applies only to applications received before the new regulations were enacted, and that new investments would be subject to the updated rules.

Expert Insight: This decision highlights the delicate balance governments face when implementing new energy policies. Maintaining credibility and honoring existing commitments is crucial, even when those commitments may present challenges under a revised regulatory structure.

Ensuring Transparency and Addressing Past Concerns

All distribution companies and K-Electric were instructed to re-verify applications received before February 8th and document their decisions to prevent any undue influence. The Power Division stated that this action removes uncertainty surrounding the pending applications and emphasized the importance of transparency in processing all requests. A helpline (118) has been provided for consumers to register any complaints.

The current situation stems from initial draft regulations published by Nepra on December 12, 2025, which prompted power companies to halt acceptance of applications under the 2015 regulations. This led to public criticism, prompting the prime minister to restore benefits for existing licensees. However, concerns remained regarding the treatment of applications submitted between the draft’s release and the formal notification of the new regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted this decision by the Power Minister?

The decision was made to salvage government credibility and address concerns arising from the transition to the new Prosumers Regulations 2026, which replaced the net-metering framework.

How many applications are affected by this directive?

A total of 5,165 applications for net-metered connections received by February 8, 2026, will be processed under the previous regulations.

What will happen to applications submitted after February 8th?

Applications submitted after February 8th will be subject to the new Prosumers Regulations 2026.

Will the implementation of these regulations lead to further adjustments in Pakistan’s energy sector, and how might these changes impact the long-term adoption of renewable energy sources?