The number of net metering applications in Pakistan has surpassed the country’s total electricity generation capacity, with 4,742 requests currently pending with distribution companies (DISCOs). The growing interest in solar net metering is being driven by soaring electricity costs, as more consumers seek alternative energy solutions.
According to documents from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), the pending applications for solar net metering have a combined capacity of 58,822 megawatts (MW), far exceeding Pakistan’s current total power generation capacity of 46,000 MW. This highlights the increasing demand for solar energy as a viable option for consumers.
The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has the highest number of pending applications, with 1,363 requests totaling 12,276 MW. Other distribution companies also face significant backlogs, including the Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) with 117 requests for 6,282 MW, the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) with 699 requests for 6,143 MW, the Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) with 871 requests for 12,399 MW, and K-Electric with 773 requests for 10,164 MW.
The delays in processing these applications are primarily attributed to the high buy-back rates under the net metering system. NEPRA has called for a balanced revision of the tariff structure to address this issue and streamline the process. The authority has also recommended prioritizing support for individual solar consumers over large-scale solar projects to ensure more effective outcomes.
