ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Energy has made it mandatory for all users installing solar systems in Pakistan to obtain a licence from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA).
Officials in the authority said that under the new system, users will be required to obtain a licence for electricity generation through solar systems. Previously, distribution companies were authorized to issue licences for systems up to 25 kilowatts.
According to sources, the Power Division has introduced amendments making NEPRA licensing compulsory for all solar installations. Consumers will also be required to pay a fee based on load, along with a pay order in favour of NEPRA.
Earlier, licences for systems up to 25 kilowatts were issued free of cost. Under the revised policy, users will now pay an additional Rs. 1,000 per kilowatt as a fee.
NEPRA officials further stated that the revised framework will allow connections under a net metering project. However, users of hybrid solar systems will remain exempt from licensing requirements.
In a related development, the government has also proposed removing 17.5% General Sales Tax on solar panels to promote renewable energy adoption in the country.
