PAKISTAN`S solar progress is nothing short of impressive. Solar energy made up over 14 per cent of the country`s power supply last year up from just four per cent in 2021. This growth has pushed solar past coal as the third-largest energy source,placingPakistan ahead ofeven China and India in solar share, and among the top in Asia. All this is impressive, but I cannot help but wonder who this green revolution is really helping.
As a resident of Lahore, I have watched solar panels pop up across the city, but6 uanner.
Rmostly on the rooftops of those who can afford them. While Pakistan`s shift to solar energy is a step towards sustainability, it has unintentionally widened the gap between the privileged and the rest of us.
The current net metering policy allows solar users to sell extra electricity back to the grid at generous rates. But this cost along with rising electricity tariffs is ultimately paid by ordinary grid users mostly living in apartments or rented houses.
The proposed reform in solar policy, though temporarily paused, is a long overdue reset. It is not a punishment. It is high time the reforms were resumed in order to strike a fair balance between the solar and grid users. Yes, you should be paid fairly if you are selling power to the grid, but not at the expense of those who have had no share in the benefits, and end up subsidising net metering customers. Let Pakistan`s solar story be a shared progress,not a selective gain.
