Power Ministry Rejects Reports of Higher Fixed Charges and Measures to Discourage Solar Adoption
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Energy (Power Division) has dismissed reports claiming that the government is planning to increase electricity fixed charges or penalize industries for adopting solar energy, describing such reports as misleading and inaccurate.
In an official statement, the Power Division clarified that there is no proposal under consideration to discourage solar power usage or impose additional financial burdens on industries that reduce their reliance on the national grid through renewable energy solutions.
The clarification came after reports suggested that the government had presented a plan to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under which industries consuming less electricity or shifting to solar energy would face higher charges.
Rejecting the claim, the ministry stated that the tariff model currently under consideration is merely an optional alternative for industrial consumers. The proposed framework would offer a different tariff structure featuring relatively higher fixed charges combined with lower electricity rates during certain periods, allowing businesses to choose the option that best suits their operational needs and consumption patterns.
According to the ministry, industrial consumers will have complete freedom to either adopt the alternative tariff or continue using the existing electricity tariff system. No consumer will be compelled to switch to the new structure.
The Power Division explained that the proposed alternative could particularly benefit industries operating around the clock, as it may provide greater stability and predictability in electricity costs.
The ministry also emphasized the importance of sharing energy-sector information based on facts and technical realities to prevent confusion and misunderstandings among consumers and stakeholders.
Officials reiterated that the government remains committed to providing flexible energy solutions while supporting industrial growth and maintaining transparency in electricity tariff policies.
