No changes to Pakistan's solar energy policy confirmed

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has confirmed that there will be no changes to the government's solar energy policy. During a meeting on March 23, 2025, he emphasized that promoting renewable energy remains a top priority for the administration. He urged relevant authorities to clarify the solarisation policy to the public using clear facts and figures. This announcement comes shortly after the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) approved new rules for rooftop solar net metering. The buyback rate for solar power has been reduced significantly from Rs27 to Rs10 per unit, which has financial implications for consumers connected to the national grid. The reduction is intended to manage the increasing number of solar net-metering consumers. However, the revised buyback rates will not affect current net-metered customers with valid licenses or agreements. These existing agreements will continue until they expire. Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Leghari stated that new regulations may encourage more consumers to adopt solar energy, allowing them to recover installation costs in about four years. Prime Minister Shehbaz also directed a faster resolution of legal matters surrounding the liquidation of power generation companies and urged the swift privatization of power distribution companies. He mentioned that a package aimed at reducing electricity tariffs will be announced soon. The Prime Minister called for improved cooperation among various divisions related to energy to develop a comprehensive strategy moving forward.