Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday reaffirmed that the government’s policy on solar energy remains unchanged, stressing that the promotion of renewable energy is a “top priority.”
His statement, issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), comes amid concerns following the government’s recent decision to slash the buyback rate for solar net metering from Rs27 per unit to Rs10 per unit. The move has sparked debate, with critics arguing it could discourage solar adoption.
Read: Punjab slashes Islamabad power tariffs, approves solar plan
Under the revised structure, electricity exported to the national grid by solar consumers will now be bought at Rs10 per unit, while imported units will be charged at standard peak and off-peak rates, inclusive of taxes and surcharges.
Despite the tariff adjustment, PM Shehbaz emphasized that the overall policy on solar energy remains intact. He directed authorities to present “facts and figures” to address any confusion regarding the government’s commitment to renewable energy.
The Prime Minister also announced that a comprehensive relief package aimed at lowering electricity costs for consumers would soon be introduced. Additionally, he instructed officials to accelerate the privatization of power distribution companies and resolve legal and operational hurdles in the liquidation of generation companies.
Read: Sindh to launch floating solar power station at Keenjhar Lake
He further stressed the need for enhanced coordination between the Power Division, Water Resources Division, and Petroleum Division to develop a more effective energy strategy.