Complete Net Metering Guide in Pakistan – Simple Steps for Solar Users

This guide explains everything you need to know before installing a solar PV system in Pakistan. Whether you are planning a small home solar system, a medium setup, or a large commercial solar PV system, this roadmap will help you understand the process from start to finish.

It is especially useful for people who want to install a grid-connected solar system and benefit from net metering in Pakistan.

What Is This Solar Net Metering Guide About?

This guide walks you through:

• Planning a solar PV system

• Understanding net metering rules

• Applying for net metering with DISCO

• Getting approval from NEPRA

• Installing and connecting your solar system to the grid

It covers both residential solar installations and commercial solar PV systems.

Background: Why Solar Energy Is Important in Pakistan

Pakistan’s Energy Crisis Explained

Pakistan has been facing a serious energy crisis for many years. Electricity demand is much higher than supply, leading to:

• Load shedding

• Power blackouts

• An energy shortfall of around 4000 MW

To reduce this gap, the Government of Pakistan is promoting renewable energy, especially solar power, through net metering.

What Is Net Metering in Pakistan?

Simple Explanation of Net Metering

Net metering allows solar users to:

• Generate electricity for their own use

• Send extra electricity to the national grid

• Get credits or reduced electricity bills

If your solar system produces more power than you use, the extra units are exported to the grid. These units are adjusted against the electricity you consume later.

Who Benefits from Net Metering?

• Homeowners with rooftop solar

• Commercial buildings

• Factories and offices

• Any consumer with a three-phase electricity connection

NEPRA Net Metering Regulations in Pakistan

Official Net Metering Law

NEPRA introduced the Distributed Generation and Net Metering Regulations on September 1, 2015.

Under these rules:

• Solar systems from 1 kW to 1 MW are allowed

• Both residential and commercial users can apply

• DISCOs must sign net metering agreements with eligible users

This policy is part of Pakistan’s Renewable Energy Policy 2006.

How to Apply for Net Metering in Pakistan – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Submit Net Metering Application

Apply to your relevant DISCO office with required documents.
The official application form is available on AEDB’s website.

Timeline: Application submitted anytime

Step 2: Application Acknowledgement

DISCO checks if your application is complete.

• If documents are missing, you will be informed

• You must resubmit missing information

Timeline:

• Acknowledgement: within 5 working days

• Missing documents: within 7 working days

Step 3: Initial Review by DISCO

DISCO reviews:

• Technical eligibility

• System capacity

• Grid compatibility

Timeline: 20 working days

Step 4: Technical Feasibility Check

If the solar system is technically not feasible, the application is returned with reasons explained.

Step 5: Net Metering Agreement

If approved, the applicant and DISCO sign a net metering agreement.

Timeline: 3 working days after review

Step 6: Generation License from NEPRA

DISCO forwards the agreement to NEPRA to issue a generation license.

Timeline: 10 working days

Step 7: Connection Charge Estimate (CCE)

If grid upgrades or meter changes are needed:

• DISCO issues a Connection Charge Estimate

• Applicant pays the amount to the designated bank

If no upgrades are required, no CCE is issued.

Timeline:

• Issuance: 7 working days

• Payment: within 20 days

Step 8: Installation & Commissioning

After payment and license confirmation:

• DISCO installs the bi-directional meter

• System is connected to the grid

Now you can officially use net metering.

Net Metering Fees in Pakistan

Who Pays What?

• Solar user pays all interconnection costs

• Solar user pays for meter installation

• Solar user covers any grid upgrade costs

NEPRA Generation License Fee Structure

Final Thoughts for Solar Users in Pakistan

Net metering is one of the best benefits for solar users in Pakistan. It helps:

• Reduce electricity bills

• Earn credits on extra power

• Support clean and renewable energy

If you plan properly and follow all steps, installing a grid-connected solar system can be a smart long-term investment.

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