Islamabad: (RightNow) The increasing popularity of solar energy in the country has become a challenge for the national grid. Electricity demand has decreased by 8.66% compared to last year.

In the April to June quarter, electricity sales by various distribution companies dropped by up to 10%. This decline in sales has increased the burden of capacity payments on consumers.

According to documents, a large number of residential and commercial consumers have switched to solar, reducing electricity demand. IESCO sold 10.77% less electricity this year compared to April last year.

Residential electricity consumers purchased up to 19.69% less electricity from April to June. Commercial consumers also bought up to 6.85% less electricity during the same period.

It is noteworthy that during the April to June quarter, IESCO recorded a 16% reduction in electricity demand. Demand fell by 16% in April, 8% in May, and 2% in June.