Pakistan’s Solar Boom Hits 18,000 MW
Pakistan’s off-grid and net-metered solar capacity has soared to 18,000 MW, intensifying challenges for grid stability as the government closely monitors the integration of renewables into the national power system. Power Division Secretary Dr. Fakhr Alam Irfan said that electricity generated through the national grid and net-metering cannot be directly compared, as grid power carries additional costs of Rs. 14 per unit for capacity and Rs. 9 per unit in taxes, making net-metered electricity significantly cheaper. Net-metering capacity has now reached 6,000 MW, while off-grid solar installations are estimated at 12,000 MW, according to satellite imagery. Officials cautioned that the rapid growth of these systems could threaten the stability of the national grid if not carefully managed. The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Power, chaired by MNA Muhammad Idrees, discussed the “Multi-Vendor Electricity Distribution Bill, 2025,” introduced by MNA Shahida Rehmani. However, the committee deferred the bill until February 2026 for further review. Rehmani highlighted Karachi’s persistent electricity challenges, citing inefficiency and mounting losses under K-Electric. A Power Division official said that, starting January 2026, electricity users in Karachi and other parts of the country will be able to purchase power from any company. In the initial phase, 200 MW of electricity will be available for bulk purchase, with open-market access first applying to consumers drawing up to one megawatt of power. Dr. Irfan added that distribution companies have been instructed not to shut down feeders even if losses reach 20 percent, to avoid further financial damage. Losses have declined from Rs. 600 billion in 2024 to Rs. 397 billion in 2025. He reiterated that the combined 18,000 MW from off-grid and net-metered solar systems is putting increasing pressure on the grid, raising concerns about stability. While solar is cheaper, Dr. Irfan emphasized that it cannot fully replace grid electricity, which includes additional costs of Rs. 14 per unit for capacity and Rs. 9 per unit in taxes.
