Fixed charges for protected consumers too under solar net metering rules

Fixed charges for protected consumers too under solar net metering rules

Fixed charges for protected consumers too under solar net metering rules. File photo

February, 10 2026

(Web Desk): Solar net metering regulations trigger fixed charges for protected consumers, as a new proposal suggests monthly fees even for low electricity users.

After the implementation of new solar net metering regulations, a proposal has been presented to impose fixed charges on protected electricity consumers. This move could significantly change how millions of households receive their electricity bills.

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) held a public hearing on the Power Division’s request for a new electricity tariff. The hearing was chaired by NEPRA Chairman Waseem Mukhtar. During the session, officials proposed introducing fixed charges for both protected and non protected consumers and reducing cross subsidies.

Officials from the Power Planning and Monitoring Company told NEPRA that fixed charges should apply to all consumers, including those using up to 300 units per month. Previously, fixed charges mainly applied to higher usage non protected consumers.

According to the proposal, protected consumers using up to 100 units per month may face fixed charges of Rs200. Similarly, protected consumers using up to 200 units per month may have to pay Rs300 as fixed monthly charges.

For non protected consumers, the proposal suggests Rs275 fixed charges for up to 100 units and Rs300 for up to 200 units per month. Consumers using up to 300 units may face Rs350 fixed charges.

The proposal also includes Rs400 fixed charges for non protected consumers using between 301 and 400 units. Those consuming between 401 and 500 units may pay Rs500 fixed charges.

For higher consumption levels, the proposal suggests increasing fixed charges to Rs675 for consumers using up to 600 units, with an increase of Rs75. However, consumers using up to 700 units may see a reduction of Rs125, bringing fixed charges to Rs675.

Interestingly, consumers using more than 700 units may also see fixed charges reduced by Rs325, setting the total at Rs675. This shows a shift toward balancing charges across different usage levels.

If approved, this policy could change the electricity billing structure for both protected and non protected consumers, especially those who previously enjoyed relief from fixed monthly fees.

This proposal shows a major shift in electricity billing. Even low usage consumers may lose some protection. The government may be trying to reduce subsidy pressure. But this could increase financial burden on small users. It also shows the system is moving toward equal fixed charges. This may improve stability but could create public concern.