In disappointing news for solar energy users, the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has imposed a temporary ban on the installation of solar green meters following directives issued by the Ministry of Energy.
LESCO officials confirmed that the decision will impact thousands of consumers, including both residential and industrial users, who were waiting to connect their solar systems under the net-metering framework.
Thousands of Solar Users Affected
According to officials, new solar green meter installations have been completely stopped, and pending applications will remain on hold. While the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) had earlier instructed DISCOs to continue installing green meters, the Ministry of Energy has now intervened, leading to the suspension.
“We are bound to follow the instructions of the Ministry of Energy,” LESCO officials said.
Ban May Last One to Two Months
LESCO authorities stated that the ban on green meters may continue for one to two months, depending on when a new solar policy is announced. Until then, no new solar net-metering connections will be approved.
Officials added that all other DISCOs across Pakistan have also stopped providing new solar connections, indicating that the decision has been implemented at a national level.
Concerns for Pakistan’s Solar Sector
The suspension has raised serious concerns among consumers and industry experts, especially as rising electricity tariffs have pushed many households and businesses toward solar energy.
Experts warn that prolonged delays in green meter installations could slow down solar adoption, discourage future investments, and create financial stress for users who have already installed solar systems but cannot export surplus electricity to the grid.
What Solar Consumers Should Know
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Solar green meter installations are temporarily suspended
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Both home and industrial users are affected
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Ban may last 1–2 months
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Installations will resume only after a new solar policy
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All DISCOs reportedly following the same directive
