Major Changes Coming for Pakistani Solar Users in 2026 [Check Full Details]

The federal government is set to implement a series of new rules for solar energy users in 2026, which could significantly affect both individual consumers and businesses relying on solar power.

The changes include stricter regulations, adjustments to the buyback rate, shorter agreement durations, and other key updates.

Reports indicate that the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has decided to revamp its net metering policy for solar users, introducing a new framework under the “NEPRA Solar User Regulations 2025.”

The Ministry of Energy approved these updates after consulting with relevant stakeholders.

The most notable change is the shift from the net metering system to a net billing framework.

No Additional Surcharges

Under the new policy, solar users will no longer receive additional surcharges. Instead, they will be compensated based on a per-unit exchange rate.

Solar Buyback Per Unit Rate

The buyback rate for solar energy under the net billing system is set at approximately 11 Pakistani rupees per unit.

Solar Contract Duration

The duration of solar contracts will also be reduced from seven years to five years.

NEPRA License Requirement

Furthermore, all solar users with loads under 25 kilowatts will now be required to obtain a license from NEPRA. This marks the end of the previous exemption that allowed domestic, industrial, and commercial users to bypass this requirement for loads up to 25 kilowatts.

These changes aim to streamline the solar energy sector in Pakistan and ensure fair compensation while maintaining regulatory oversight.