Government takes major decision regarding net metering project

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to phase out the net metering project and replace it with a net billing system.

According to reports, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has officially started working, while the details of the new net billing system for consumers are being prepared.

Sources say that under net metering, solar consumers used to get adjustments at a fixed rate by adding additional electricity to the grid.

However, the government believes that the current system is increasing financial pressure on the power sector. That is why it has been decided to introduce a net billing formula.

Nepra will also consult all stakeholders regarding the new system, after which the final rules and regulations will be announced. This system will likely apply to new solar consumers.

According to experts, the abolition of net metering may reduce the trend of solar energy at the domestic and commercial levels, while the solar industry is also likely to suffer a setback.

On the other hand, government circles say that net billing will balance electricity rates and reduce the burden on the national grid.

According to sources, after the final approval of the net billing system, a formal notification will be issued, after which its implementation will begin. The eyes of the public and solar consumers are now focused on the final decision of NEPRA.