The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has abolished the requirement for solar consumers with systems up to 25 kilowatts (kW) to obtain approval directly from the regulator.
According to a notification issued by NEPRA, amendments have been made to the Solar Regulations 2026, under which electricity distribution companies have now been authorized to provide direct approvals for solar installations of up to 25 kW.
Previously, solar users were required to seek approval from NEPRA before connecting their systems to the national grid. Under the revised regulations, consumers installing solar systems within the 25 kW limit will only need approval from their respective power distribution company.
NEPRA stated that the change aims to simplify the approval process, reduce administrative delays, and make it easier for residential and small-scale commercial consumers to adopt solar energy solutions.
The relevant distribution company will now be responsible for reviewing applications, ensuring compliance with technical requirements, and granting permission for grid-connected solar systems within the specified capacity.
The move is expected to encourage greater adoption of renewable energy across Pakistan by making the process faster and more accessible for consumers interested in installing rooftop solar systems.
The amendment comes amid growing demand for solar energy in the country, as consumers increasingly turn toward alternative energy sources to manage rising electricity costs and ensure a more reliable power supply.
Energy sector experts believe that reducing regulatory hurdles could accelerate the expansion of distributed solar generation and support Pakistan’s efforts to increase the share of renewable energy in its overall power mix.
However, consumers will still be required to follow technical standards and procedures set by their respective distribution companies to ensure safe and efficient integration of solar systems with the electricity grid.
The updated regulations are part of NEPRA’s broader efforts to improve the regulatory framework for renewable energy and provide a more streamlined mechanism for small-scale solar users.
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