The federal government has introduced fixed charges for all three-phase electricity consumers, including solar users, following approval from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA). Under the new policy, consumers with a 5kW load will pay a minimum of Rs1,687 per month, with the amount increasing based on higher sanctioned loads.
The move comes under the Solar Consumers Regulations 2026, which also introduces a new billing framework for upcoming solar users. According to the policy, new solar consumers will be shifted to a net billing system, where electricity exported to the grid will be purchased at Rs11 per unit.
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However, existing solar users will remain under the current net metering system, meaning their billing structure will not change immediately. The government says the new policy aims to stabilize the power sector, manage grid capacity more effectively, and address financial challenges faced by distribution companies.
Energy experts say the introduction of fixed charges and net billing may affect the financial attractiveness of installing new rooftop solar systems, particularly for small and medium consumers. At the same time, authorities argue that the policy will help balance the electricity network while ensuring fair cost distribution among all electricity users.
