Pakistan’s Ministry of Power Division announced new amendments to solar system regulations. The govt introduces new solar rules that make licensing mandatory for every consumer. Anyone who wants to generate electricity must obtain a license from NEPRA. Consumers will pay a licensing fee based on the capacity of their solar system. Applicants must also submit a pay order in NEPRA’s name as part of the process. These changes represent a significant shift in the government’s regulatory approach.

The previous policy offered free licenses for smaller systems. Consumers installing solar systems of up to 25 kilowatts received licenses without any charge. The govt introduces new solar rules that withdraw this provision entirely. Sources confirm that consumers will now pay an additional fee of Rs 1,000 per kilowatt. A 10 kilowatt system would cost Rs 10,000 just for the license. A 25 kilowatt system would cost Rs 25,000. The amendments also state that consumers will receive connections under a net billing project framework.

The government’s stance on solar energy appears to be hardening. What once encouraged adoption with free licensing now imposes significant costs. The govt introduces new solar rules at a time when electricity prices continue rising. Many households switched to solar precisely to escape high grid costs. Now those same households face new fees for generating their own power. Net billing replaces the previous net metering arrangement.

Solar users must comply or face legal consequences. The Ministry of Power Division expects full implementation immediately.