Net Metering in Pakistan: The Complete Application Guide
Net metering connects your solar system to the grid so surplus daytime energy is exported and credited against your bill. In 2025–2026 Pakistan moved from classic net metering (one exported unit cancels one imported unit) to net billing: imports are charged at your full retail tariff while exports are credited at a much lower wholesale-linked rate. That single change rewrote how systems should be sized — more on that below.
Who is eligible
Any consumer with a sanctioned three-phase connection can apply (single-phase policies vary by DISCO). The system must use a grid-tie capable inverter — on-grid or hybrid — installed by an AEDB-certified installer, with protective equipment (breakers, SPDs, earthing) meeting the DISCO's standards.
Documents you will need
- CNIC of the person named on the electricity bill
- A recent electricity bill (the reference number drives the whole case)
- Single-line diagram and equipment datasheets — your installer prepares these
- Installer's certification details and the signed application forms
The process, step by step
- Choose a certified installer. Only AEDB-certified firms can file the case; ask for their certificate number before signing anything.
- Application filed with your DISCO. The installer submits the file to your distribution company (LESCO, K-Electric, IESCO, MEPCO, etc.).
- Site inspection. DISCO staff verify the installation, earthing and protection against the submitted diagram.
- Demand notice. You pay for the bidirectional (green/AMI) meter and processing. Costs vary by DISCO and change over time — get the current figure in writing before you start.
- Meter replacement and agreement. The bidirectional meter replaces your existing one and the interconnection agreement is executed. Export credits then appear on your monthly bill.
Timelines vary widely between DISCOs — from a few weeks to a few months. Systems above 25 kW additionally require NEPRA concurrence, which adds time.
How net billing changes system sizing
Under the old 1:1 rules, oversizing was harmless — every surplus unit offset a full-price unit. Under net billing, a surplus unit earns only the low export rate while an evening unit still costs full retail. The winning strategy now is self-consumption: size near your daytime usage, shift flexible loads (pump, washing machine, iron) into the 10am–4pm solar window, and let batteries — not the grid — carry the evening.
Check what the new rules mean for your numbers: compare a right-sized against an oversized system in the net billing comparison, or run your quotation through the payback calculator, or size from scratch with the complete calculator.