The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has taken strict notice of reports that power distribution companies have stopped registering new net metering applications, calling the move highly alarming and in violation of prevailing regulations.

In a directive issued on Thursday, Nepra said it had observed that the registration of new net metering applications had been suspended across distribution companies, including K-Electric.

The authority termed the halt a serious matter and warned that stopping new applications runs contrary to existing laws and regulatory frameworks.

Nepra has sought detailed information on net metering from all distribution companies (DISCOs) and instructed them to submit complete data within three working days. The regulator has also directed that the matter be treated as “most urgent”.

The development comes amid growing demand for rooftop solar and net metering connections, with consumers relying on the mechanism to offset electricity costs and feed surplus power into the national grid.

Nepra did not specify the reasons cited by the power companies for suspending registrations, but said the authority would review the responses before taking further action.

All DISCOs, including K-Electric, have been formally directed to comply with the order, Nepra said.