ISLAMABAD: The government of Pakistan has announced a major policy shift aimed at promoting renewable energy, removing the licensing requirement for small-scale solar power users across the country.
Sources indicate that NEPRA has rescinded its license requirement for solar power generators with a capacity of 25 kilowatts after the issuance of a directive by the Power Division. The official notification was also released.
The step will make it easier for households and other small entities to adopt solar energy by removing regulatory requirements that have hindered them from doing so.
Earlier, Federal Minister for Energy Owais Leghari had instructed the Power Division to submit proposals on how to ease the way for solar energy consumers. It had also proposed the cancellation of any licensing fee imposed for small-scale solar projects.
Officials added that the reform was part of the government’s approach aimed at promoting sustainable energy use and minimizing dependence on traditional sources. Government representatives have constantly stressed that it is essential to boost solar energy utilization due to an increasing need for electricity and energy self-reliance.
Energy sector analysts have positively evaluated the new measure since lowering regulatory obstacles can facilitate installation of photovoltaic panels. Experts also believe that the reform might alleviate strain on the national grid during peak hours.
This latest development shows the efforts of Pakistan to make a shift toward sustainable energy solutions. In addition, officials have signalled more incentives for renewable energy users in the future.
