Solar green metering suspended after energy ministry directive

Lahore Electric Supply Company LESCO halted installation of solar green meters following direct orders from the Ministry of Energy, leaving thousands of households and industrial consumers in limbo.

Consumers who have already installed solar systems and applied for green meters are facing growing concern following the sudden suspension of green meter installations. According to officials of the Lahore Electric Supply Company, the move comes after receiving fresh instructions from the Ministry of Energy, despite earlier approval from the power regulator for solar green meters.

Officials explained that the utility is bound to follow government directives, which led to the immediate halt of installations. As a result, all pending applications for green meters have been placed on hold. Sources revealed that the suspension may continue for one to two months while the government prepares a new solar energy policy. A final decision on green meter installations will be taken once the policy is formally announced.

Meanwhile, the decision has affected not only domestic consumers but also the industrial sector. LESCO confirmed that the suspension applies equally to industrial connections, causing temporary disruption to alternative energy usage. Many industrial units have already invested heavily in solar systems, expecting relief from high electricity costs. However, without green meters, they are unable to benefit from net metering and energy savings.

Energy experts believe the timing of the decision has raised serious concerns among consumers. Due to continuously rising electricity tariffs, a large number of people had shifted towards solar power as a cost-effective and sustainable option. In this context, the pause in green meter installations has created uncertainty and anxiety among solar users. Furthermore, experts warn that prolonged delays could slow down the growth of renewable energy adoption across the country.