Pakistan’s renewable energy transition gained notable momentum over the past year, with net metering electricity generation soaring by more than 100% in September 2025, according to new data by Arif Habib Limited (AHL) Research.
Record Growth in Solar-Based Net Metering
The data shows that net metering units—excluding K-Electric consumers—jumped from 70.35 GWh in September 2024 to 142.67 GWh in September 2025, marking a year-on-year increase of 103%. Month-on-month, the growth stood at 28.1%, compared to 111.4 GWh recorded in August.
Net metering’s share in the country’s total power generation also continued to climb, doubling from 0.6% in September 2024 to 1.1% in September 2025. “Net metering’s share in total generation rose by 57 basis points year-on-year, reflecting wider rooftop solar adoption and reduced reliance on the national grid,” AHL noted.
The highest contribution during the year was seen in April 2025, when net metering generation peaked at 307.8 GWh, accounting for nearly 2.9% of the country’s total electricity production.
Policy Review on Buyback Tariffs Underway
Experts say the strong growth reflects the rising popularity of rooftop solar systems among households and businesses, driven by high grid tariffs and improved access to renewable technologies. However, a key policy challenge remains—the government’s proposed revision of net metering buyback rates.
As reported by Business Recorder last month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the Power Division (PD) to fast-track the verification of the new tariff proposal in coordination with NEPRA. The PD has suggested reducing the buyback rate from Rs22 per unit to Rs11.30, arguing that the current tariff creates an unfair financial load on non-solar consumers.
The premier also ordered a legal review of existing net metering contracts signed under the Net Metering Rules 2015 to ensure that any changes comply with contractual obligations.
Analysts believe that despite the debate over tariffs, the sharp rise in solar-based generation signals a positive shift toward cleaner, decentralized energy systems, with net metering emerging as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s renewable future.
