ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) and the Power Division faced strong criticism on Friday over new proposed net-metering rules for solar energy. Critics argued the draft Prosumers Regulations 2025 would hurt solar adoption and push Pakistan toward an “inefficient, unreliable and unaffordable” power system. At a public hearing, many groups including politicians, business chambers, solar installers, and consumers spoke out against the changes. The draft regulation aims to reduce incentives for solar consumers drastically. Despite this, stakeholders were not allowed to suggest alternatives, says Nepra's new member Amina Ahmed. Pakistan Peoples Party leader Nadeem Afzal Chan demanded a live telecast of the hearing, but Nepra declined. Several industry groups called for hearings in provincial capitals, which Nepra also ignored. Complaints surfaced that power companies have already stopped accepting new solar applications and are charging existing solar users full rates. Nepra Chairman Waseem Mukhtar declared such actions illegal and vowed to reverse them. The Power Division explained the draft rules would shift existing solar users from net-metering to net-billing with less favorable export credits and shorten new solar contract terms. Mr Chan accused the power system of corruption and said solar empowers small rural businesses. Think tanks warned the changes violate international climate commitments and reduce energy security. They proposed the government buy surplus solar power to earn carbon credits. Officials defended the rules saying rapid solar growth has created grid problems requiring new regulations. Pakistan’s solar capacity reached 7,000 MW on-grid and 13,000 MW off-grid, increasing clean energy share to 55% in 2025. The hearing lasted over three hours, with the Power Division given much more time than other speakers. Critics fear the new rules will slow Pakistan’s clean energy progress and hurt consumers.