The rapid expansion of rooftop solar systems is reshaping Pakistan’s energy sector, yet it has introduced a divide between solar adopters and traditional grid-dependent consumers, particularly affecting lower-income households. In response, experts at a recent seminar underscored the need for equitable energy access policies to ensure all consumers benefit from the country’s solar surge. The session, titled “Navigating the Solar Surge: Ensuring Equitable Energy Access in Pakistan’s Power Sector,” was organized by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) and brought together thought leaders, including IPS Chairman Khalid Rahman, energy advocate Ameena Sohail, and other prominent industry professionals. Khalid Rahman opened by addressing the disparities created by falling solar costs, which have led to mass adoption among wealthier consumers while leaving lower-income households to shoulder rising grid costs. Wali Farooqui, IPS Research Officer, presented a study on the socioeconomic impacts of solar adoption, pointing out that elite consumers are primarily reaping the benefits. “Those with higher-paying capabilities can shield themselves from rising electricity prices, but leaves lower-income consumers worse off as they are left facing a greater share of the grid’s costs,” Farooqui noted, calling for action to prevent a two-tiered energy system. Khalid Rahman emphasized that without timely policy adjustments, especially to net metering, these inequities could worsen. He called for a balanced approach, saying, “Without evaluating these policy changes and their broad impact, we risk pushing more of the financial burden onto those still reliant on traditional electricity sources.” Ameena Sohail highlighted potential strain on the grid due to unregulated solar growth, recommending a strategic review of Pakistan’s energy planning to integrate solar responsibly. “While solar is financially viable, we must establish a regulatory framework that safeguards the grid while promoting fair solar adoption,” she advised. Renewable energy expert Asad Mahmood expressed concern over the widening gap between solar adopters and non-adopters, noting that grid-reliant households are increasingly pressured by higher bills. He argued that clear regulatory limits on solar integration are essential to maintain grid stability, warning of a potential “duck curve” effect—a situation where solar production sharply declines at sunset, leading to demand spikes. Abubakar Ismail, head of energy and sustainability for a private firm, emphasized the importance of creating policies that support energy equity. He pointed to the challenges of balancing grid demands, particularly at night when solar isn’t available. “Renewable energy and decarbonization are crucial goals, but we need continuous energy even during solar downtimes, which raises the cost of maintaining the grid,” Ismail explained, urging for policy solutions that distribute these costs fairly. CEO Muhammad Musaddiq highlighted additional barriers to solar growth, including power theft, which hampers progress across the sector. He called for greater adoption of solar and electric vehicles to reduce fossil fuel dependence, but cautioned that integrating these technologies poses challenges for existing power plants. Former Federal Secretary for Water & Power, Mirza Hamid Hassan, underscored the importance of balancing the costs between solar users and grid-dependent consumers. He argued for a fair grid cost structure for net metering consumers to prevent unfair burdens on traditional users. “Solar energy adoption is essential for Pakistan’s future, but we must ensure grid maintenance costs are equitably shared,” Hassan concluded. The session wrapped up with a call for collaboration among policymakers, energy providers, and industry leaders to establish a fair energy framework, supporting a sustainable transition that benefits all Pakistanis.
