New Fixed Charges Spark Tension Over Net Metering
SEPCO has proposed a Rs1,000 per kilowatt fixed charge on net metering users, claiming they don’t contribute to grid maintenance expenses.
According to reports, SEPCO joined PESCO, MEPCO, and HESCO in submitting similar applications to NEPRA for approval of fixed charges on solar-connected consumers.
SEPCO said net metering users depend on the grid during low solar output but do not share transmission maintenance costs.
The company claimed that non-solar consumers are bearing higher fixed costs due to cross-subsidization, creating financial pressure on the utility.
The document noted that the rapid growth of net metering users has impacted the revenue, leading the utility to suggest a fixed charge of Rs7,000 for consumers with 7-kilowatt systems.
Read More: PD Says Rs79bn rise in circular debt is seasonal
Responding to the proposal, NEPRA expressed surprise at the suggested rate of Rs1,000 per kilowatt and has scheduled a working session to review the rationale behind the request.
The authority has also asked the company to submit detailed data on outstanding dues and the financial impact of net metering.
Meanwhile, the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) has also sought approval for introducing fixed network usage charges on solar users.
Its proposal includes levying fees on units exported or loaded onto the grid and exploring a gross metering model to reduce cross-subsidies.
The proposed charges have fueled tensions, with utilities citing revenue losses and consumers warning they could hinder solar energy adoption in Pakistan.
