Govt Halts Shift from Net Metering to Net Billing After Backlash

Islamabad: The federal government has suspended its decision to shift electricity consumers from net metering to net billing following strong public and political opposition. Power Minister Owais Laghari directed authorities to file an appeal against the regulator’s ruling. He stated that net metering reforms are part of broader power sector restructuring, highlighting Rs 780 billion reduction in circular debt and Rs 3,400 billion savings through renegotiated IPP agreements. Currently, around 466,000 to 700,000 consumers benefit from net metering, with total solar capacity between 20,000–22,000 MW. The minister questioned the fairness of purchasing rooftop solar power at Rs 27 per unit compared to Rs 8 from other sources. The government maintains that any future reforms will protect low-income consumers.