
Net-metering adds 2,813MW to power generation capacity
According to Economic Survey of Pakistan, the percentage shares of hydel, nuclear, renewable, and thermal are 24.4 percent, 7.8 percent, 12.2 percent, and 55.7 percent, respectively.
The share of thermal power as a dominant source of electricity supply has declined over the past few years, showing an increased reliance on indigenous sources. Out of the total electricity generation of 90,145 GWh, the share of hydel, nuclear, and renewable stands at 53.7 percent. This shift marks a positive development of the economy, as the energy mix transitions away from thermal generation towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives.
A number of fast track solar initiatives have been taken to reduce the impact of high prices of oil and LNG in the international markets resulting in high electricity tariffs and drain foreign exchange reserves, the government has approved the Framework Guidelines for Fast-Track solar PV Initiatives 2022 for fast-track deployment of solar PV. The framework is based on three key pillars, including substitution of expensive imported fossil fuels with Solar PV Energy, Solar PV Generation on 11kV Feeders and solarization of public buildings.
For solarization of 11kV feeders, solar PV-based power generation capacity shall be procured for the substitution of expensive imported fossil fuels used for power generation. Exact quantum will be determined on approval of the IGCEP by NEPRA. For solarization of 11kV Feeders, PPIB has prepared and shared the standard RFP and Energy Purchase Agreement with all DISCOs for approval from their respective Boards. Under Public Building Solarization, PPIB has prepared model RFP documents and contract agreements to facilitate Public Sector Entities (PSEs) in the solarization of their buildings.
PPIB conducted competitive bidding for 330 buildings on the Lease Purchase Model and 85 buildings on the own-cost model. PPIB is also actively engaged with several PSEs to provide technical support in the solarization of their buildings.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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