THE ever-increasing demand for rene-wable energy solutions prompts many to opt for solar energy, which helps people cut down on electricity expenses, and contributes to a cleaner environment. Those planning to have solar panels inst-alled under the net-metering policy in Karachi have been facing problems owing to the infamous K-Electric (KE) red-tape.

This has become the primary reason for failure on te part of the people to switch to the renewable energy source even though the KE administration has continued to claim otherwise. The KE approval process is marked by serious procrastination and unnecessary paperwork. Community members have to work through a dense jungle of paperwork relating to data and techno-legal protocols that takes months.

Furthermore, site inspections of the location involve so many and such severe technical requirements that there are many who simply give up the whole idea of going solar.

What the people need are official policies facilitating the process, and not a hyperactive KE bureaucracy. Less formalities, fast-track approval, and a clear set of directions for the people of Karachi should be the way forward.

Huzaifa Khety
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 29th, 2024