Net metering lets solar panel owners sell surplus electricity back to the grid. In Pakistan, NEPRA changed the rules in February 2026: the old net metering system (unit-for-unit credit) was replaced with net billing (fixed buyback rate). This guide explains how the new system works, current rates, and how to apply through your DISCO.
If you installed solar panels or plan to, this affects your electricity bill. The buyback rate dropped from around Rs 25.9 to about Rs 11 per unit, so the economics of grid export have changed. This guide helps you understand what to expect.
Net metering vs net billing: what changed
| Feature | Old Net Metering (before Feb 2026) | New Net Billing (Feb 2026 onwards) |
|---|---|---|
| How surplus power is credited | Unit-for-unit (1 kWh exported = 1 kWh credit) | Fixed rate per kWh exported |
| Buyback rate | Same as your consumption rate | ~Rs 11/unit (National Average Energy Purchase Price) |
| Your meter | Runs backwards when exporting | Measures import and export separately |
| Best for | High daytime consumption | Self-consumption, battery storage |
| NEPRA license | Required (with fee) | Required (fee removed) |
Under the old system, if you exported 100 units and consumed 100 units from the grid, they cancelled out. Under net billing, you get paid Rs 11 × 100 = Rs 1,100 for exports, but pay retail rates (Rs 25-60+ per unit depending on slab) for consumption. The math now favors using your own solar power rather than exporting it.
Current net billing rates (2026)
| Component | Rate |
|---|---|
| Buyback rate (what DISCO pays you) | ~Rs 11/unit (National Average Energy Purchase Price) |
| Retail rate (what you pay DISCO) | Rs 25-60+/unit depending on consumption slab |
| Fixed charges | Remain unchanged |
| Taxes and surcharges | Applied to net consumption |
The exact buyback rate is set by NEPRA based on the weighted average price at which DISCOs purchase power from generators. Check your DISCO or NEPRA notifications for the current figure.
Who can apply for net billing
You can apply if you:
- Have a valid electricity connection with an approved load
- Own or lease a solar PV system between 1 kW and 1 MW
- Have a system size that does not exceed your sanctioned load
- Can install a bi-directional or separate import/export meter
- Can obtain a NEPRA generation license (fee removed, but license still required)
Systems 250 kW or larger require a mandatory load flow study before approval.
How to apply for net billing in Pakistan
Step 1: Check your approved load
Look at your electricity bill or contact your DISCO. Your solar system cannot exceed this load. If your approved load is 5 kW and you want a 10 kW system, you must first apply to increase your load.
Step 2: Get your solar system installed
Work with a registered solar installer. You need:
- Solar panels
- Inverter (must be on NEPRA’s approved list)
- Bi-directional meter or separate meters
- Protection equipment
Keep all invoices, specifications and warranties.
Step 3: Apply to your DISCO
Submit an application to your local distribution company:
| Your area | Apply to |
|---|---|
| Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib | LESCO |
| Multan, Bahawalpur, DG Khan, Sahiwal, RY Khan | MEPCO |
| Faisalabad, Jhang, Sargodha, TT Singh, Chiniot | FESCO |
| Gujranwala, Sialkot, Gujrat, Hafizabad, MB Din, Narowal | GEPCO |
| Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal | IESCO |
| Peshawar, Mardan, KPK | PESCO |
| Karachi | K-Electric |
Your application needs:
- Application form (from DISCO website or office)
- Copy of electricity bill
- CNIC copy
- Site layout/single line diagram
- Inverter specifications and approval certificate
- System capacity details
Step 4: DISCO inspection and meter installation
Your DISCO inspects your installation and installs or approves the bi-directional meter. Timeline:
- DISCO must respond within 15 days of complete application
- NEPRA issues license concurrence within 7 days
Step 5: Sign the agreement
Once approved, you sign a net billing agreement with your DISCO. New agreements are valid for 5 years and can be renewed for another 5 years.
What existing net metering users should know
If you had net metering before February 2026:
- Your existing agreement is protected. The government directed that current contracts should not be changed.
- Applications filed before 8 February 2026 are processed under the old rules.
- When your agreement expires, you will likely move to net billing terms.
If you have questions about your specific case, contact your DISCO’s net metering cell.
Is net billing still worth it?
The economics have changed. Here’s a rough comparison for a 5 kW system producing 600 units/month:
| Scenario | Old Net Metering | New Net Billing |
|---|---|---|
| You use 400 units, export 200 | Pay for 200 units only | Pay for 400 units, get ~Rs 2,200 for exports |
| You use 600 units, export 0 | Pay for 0 units | Pay for 0 units |
| You use 200 units, export 400 | Get 200 unit credit | Pay for 200 units, get ~Rs 4,400 for exports |
Recommendations:
- Maximize self-consumption. Use washing machines, water heaters and AC during sunny hours.
- Consider batteries. Store surplus power for evening use instead of selling at Rs 11 and buying back at Rs 25-60+.
- Size your system for daytime load, not maximum roof capacity.
Green meter price in Pakistan
A bi-directional (green) meter costs approximately Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000 depending on the type and brand. Some DISCOs provide the meter; others require you to purchase an approved model. Confirm with your DISCO before buying.
Related guides
- Bijli Bill Check Online - Check your electricity bill
- CM Punjab Solar Scheme - Free solar for homes using up to 200 units
- LESCO Bill Check - Lahore electricity bills
- Utility Bills - All electricity and gas bill guides
Disclaimer
This guide is based on NEPRA’s Prosumer Regulations 2026 and news reports as of October 2026. Rates, rules and procedures may change. Always confirm current requirements with your DISCO and check NEPRA’s official notifications at nepra.org.pk before making decisions. GoPunjab is an independent information site, not affiliated with NEPRA or any DISCO.