Discover essential Solar Net Metering Policy information. Get accurate descriptions, key features, latest guidelines and useful links to help you understand what it involves, how it works and why it matters. Stay informed with reliable detail for easy navigation and quick reference.
Solar Net Metering Policy 2026
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Big Change in Pakistan’s Solar Net Metering System
On February 9, 2026, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) introduced new regulations that completely changed how solar users interact with the electricity grid. The Solar Net Metering policy 2026 replaces the old system and introduces a new model called Net Billing.
Understanding the Solar Net Metering New Rules System vs. the Old System
Before these changes, people used net metering under a simple rule. If you sent one unit of solar electricity to the grid during the day, the system deducted one unit from your night usage. It worked like a direct swap.
- Under the new rules, that 1:1 exchange end. Now the system runs on net billing.
- When you take electricity from the grid, you pay the full retail price with all taxes and charges included.
- When you send extra solar energy to the grid, your DISCO buys it at a lower buyback price.
This means you can no longer exchange one solar unit for one grid unit.
Solar Net Metering Rates and Buyback Changes
The biggest impact comes from the new solar net metering rates.
| Feature |
New Policy (2026) |
Old Policy (Pre-2026) |
| Buyback Rate |
Rs. 8.13 to Rs. 11 per unit |
Around Rs. 25.9 per unit |
| Grid Import Rate |
Full Slab-Based Tariff |
Slab-based (approx. Rs. 35–60) |
| Contract Duration |
5 Years (Renewable) |
7 Years |
| System Capacity |
Max 1x sanctioned load |
Up to 1.5x sanctioned load |
| Settlement |
Monthly settlement |
Continuous adjustment
|
The buyback price now links to the National Average Energy Purchase Price, which NEPRA can revise periodically.
How Your Solar Net Metering Bill Will Look Now
Many people will notice a big difference in their solar net metering bill. Instead of showing only net units, your bill will show two separate sections.
- The system calculates your consumption from the grid. For example, if you consume 400 units at Rs. 50, your cost becomes Rs. 20,000.
- The system calculates your export credit. If you export 500 solar units at Rs. 11, you receive a credit of Rs. 5,500.
- The final bill subtracts export credit from your consumption charges. In this example, you would pay Rs. 14,500.
Under the old system, the same situation could result in a zero bill with extra units saved for later.
Who Will Feel the Impact
The Solar Net Metering policy in Pakistan protects existing solar users until their original contracts expire. It usually happens seven years after installation. Many current users will continue under the old rules until around 2030 or 2031.
New applicants who apply after February 9, 2026 automatically fall under the new net billing system. Anyone whose old contract expires will also shift to the new rules upon renewal.
New Technical Limits You Should Know
NEPRA also introduced technical restrictions. It will help protect grid stability.
- DISCOs cannot approve new solar connections if total solar generation on a transformer exceeds 80% of its capacity.
- You cannot install a solar system larger than your sanctioned load. For example, if your approved load is 10 kW, you cannot install a 15 kW system without applying for a load extension first.
What Smart Solar Users Should Do Now
Earlier, many people focused on exporting excess electricity to reduce bills. Under the solar net metering new rules, selling electricity gives less financial benefit.
Now running heavy appliances like air conditioners, water pumps, or washing machines during daytime solar production helps you save more money. If you use solar power directly, you won't have to buy expensive grid electricity later.