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Government Orders Review After Net Metering Consumers Denied Credits

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The Power Division has moved to correct an issue that left several net metering consumers without credit for electricity supplied to the national grid, following concerns raised over recent billing practices.

Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari ordered an immediate review of guidelines issued by the Pakistan Power Market Company (PPMC) after it came to light that some consumers were not credited for power exported to the grid in the previous billing cycle.

The issue surfaced when it was found that a number of net metering users had installed solar systems exceeding the generation capacity approved under their licenses. Under the earlier interpretation of the guidelines, this resulted in complete withholding of net metering credits, even for electricity supplied within the approved capacity.

The Power Division clarified that this approach was incorrect. Under the revised mechanism, only the electricity units generated beyond the approved licensed capacity will be excluded from credit. Units supplied within the permitted capacity will be credited in line with existing rules.

Following the clarification, instructions have been issued to all power distribution companies (DISCOs) to implement the revised guidelines immediately. Consumers whose bills did not reflect net metering credits will receive adjustments in the upcoming billing cycle.

The federal minister reiterated that the rights of electricity consumers must be protected and stressed that fair treatment across the power sector remains a priority. As rooftop solar adoption continues to grow amid rising energy costs, clarity in net metering rules remain critical.