Net Metering in Pakistan: Complete Guide

Net metering has become a key driver in Pakistan's transition toward renewable energy. It enables residential, commercial, and industrial solar system owners to reduce electricity costs by exporting excess solar power to the national grid. For anyone planning to install a solar system, understanding net metering is essential to maximizing return on investment.

What Is Net Metering?

Net metering is a billing mechanism approved by NEPRA that allows solar energy producers to:

Export surplus electricity to the national grid
Receive energy credits against exported units
Import electricity from the grid when solar generation is insufficient

Instead of storing excess energy in batteries, the grid functions as a virtual storage system.

How Net Metering Works in Pakistan

1. Solar Power Generation

Solar panels generate electricity during daylight hours to meet on-site consumption.

2. Export of Excess Energy

When generation exceeds usage, surplus electricity is automatically exported to the grid through a bidirectional meter.

3. Credit Adjustment

Exported units are credited on the electricity bill at the same tariff rate charged by the distribution company.

4. Energy Consumption from Grid

During nighttime or low solar production, electricity is imported from the grid using accumulated credits.

Key Benefits of Net Metering

Reduced Electricity Costs

Net metering can reduce electricity bills by 80–95%, depending on system size and consumption patterns.

No Battery Dependency

The system eliminates the need for expensive battery storage, reducing initial capital cost and maintenance.

Environmentally Sustainable

By feeding clean energy into the grid, net metering helps lower carbon emissions and supports Pakistan's renewable energy goals.

Strong Financial Returns

Most net-metered systems recover their cost within 3–5 years, followed by long-term savings.

Net Metering Regulations in Pakistan

Net metering is regulated under NEPRA's Distributed Generation and Net Metering Regulations.

System Capacity Limits

Residential: Typically 5kW to 25kW
Commercial & Industrial: Up to 1MW

Metering Requirements

NEPRA-approved bidirectional (net) meter
Certified inverter and protection systems

Distribution Companies

Applications are submitted to local DISCOs such as LESCO, IESCO, GEPCO, or K-Electric.

Net Metering Application Process

Submission of net metering application
Technical feasibility and approval
Installation of compliant solar system
Inspection by DISCO
Installation of net meter
Activation and billing adjustments

System Cost & Return on Investment

Estimated System Costs

10kW system: PKR 800,000 – 1,000,000
15kW system: PKR 1,200,000 – 1,500,000

Expected Savings

10kW system can save approximately PKR 30,000 – 50,000 per month

Payback Period

Average payback: 3–5 years

Is Net Metering Suitable for You?

Net metering is an ideal solution if you:

Have access to sufficient sunlight
Consume significant electricity during the day
Want long-term savings with minimal maintenance
Prefer avoiding battery-related costs

Net Metering Services by SheikhX Solar

SheikhX Solar provides complete end-to-end net metering solutions, including:

System design and sizing
Application and documentation handling
NEPRA-compliant installation
Meter installation coordination
Long-term technical support

Start Your Solar Journey Today

If you are planning to switch to solar energy, SheikhX Solar offers professional consultation and customized solutions to help you achieve maximum savings through net metering.

Net Metering in Pakistan: A Complete & Practical Guide (2024–2025)