Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, Barrister Danyal Chaudhry, has emphasized the critical importance of parliamentary oversight regarding the newly introduced NEPRA Prosumer Regulations 2026, which carry far-reaching implications for solarized consumers, renewable energy adoption, and Pakistan's international climate commitments.
In his remarks while chairing the briefing organized by the Parliamentary Forum on Energy and Economy, Barrister Danyal noted that the rapid expansion of rooftop solar across Pakistan is being driven by rising electricity tariffs and persistent grid unreliability. He stressed that while the transition to decentralized renewable energy is a positive development, the proposed regulations must be carefully examined to ensure they do not undermine consumer rights, investment confidence, or the country's clean energy goals.
"The surge in rooftop solar adoption reflects public demand for affordable and reliable electricity. Any regulatory framework governing prosumers must strike a delicate balance between grid stability and protecting the interests of consumers who have invested their hard-earned money in solar energy systems".
The briefing featured expert opinion on the proposed net metering and net billing frameworks, examining their economic, socio-legal, and technical implications. Experts also shed light on potential risks, including reduced solar uptake and the possibility of consumers defecting from the national grid altogether.
He underscored that informed parliamentary engagement on this issue is essential to ensure that Pakistan's energy policies align with both national interests and international commitments to clean energy transition.
"Parliament has a constitutional responsibility to safeguard public interest. As we navigate this energy transition, we must ensure that regulations encourage renewable energy adoption rather than discourage it, and that consumers are treated fairly while maintaining grid stability".
