Moqeem terms govt’s move a major hurdle in uplift of renewable energy sector
PESHAWAR
Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Fazal Moqeem Khan strongly reacted over the government’s move to bring sudden and drastic changes in net metering policy, calling it a major hurdle in promotion of renewable energy sector and asked to immediately withdraw it.
In a statement issued here on Saturday, SCCI chief stated reduction in power purchase for solar panel owners at Rs10/unit from Rs27/unit unfair, even though it would be very harmful.
He said the major cut of 63 percent would not only discourage new investment in the solar energy sector but it could also inflict losses in achieving the government’s targets in renewable energy.
Moqeem said it is completely incomprehensible to force solar energy consumers to buy electricity over 550 percent from the national grid, which is unfair and unacceptable.
Furthermore, he said it is totally incomprehensible that the government, under the guise of changes in the policy, would charge additional 90 paisa per unit from non-solar consumers, which is highly deplorable.
The reality is that the government is attempting to divert attention from Rs18/unit to non-functional capacity payments and approximately annual Rs600billion losses on account of power theft and non-payment of power bills, Moqeem remarked.
The chamber president urged the government to review its decision and give priority to such durable energy solutions that would serve the interests of consumers from all categories, instead of benefiting only a few segments.
Moqeem said the uplift renewal energy sector is highly essential for the country’s energy prosperity, economic growth and environmental stability.
SCCI chief urged the government to consult with the business community along with relevant stakeholders and frame such a balanced and comprehensive energy policy that could ensure promotion of the renewable energy sector and protect the interest of power consumers of all categories.
