Pakistan’s rooftop solar rules changed in 2026. NEPRA replaced the old net metering system with net billing for new solar users, and this changes how much you save by exporting power to the grid. This guide explains the change in simple words and what it means if you are planning solar now.
- NEPRA notified new prosumer regulations on 9 February 2026, replacing the Net Metering Regulations of 2015.
- New solar users are on net billing: units you export are bought at about Rs 11 per unit, while units you import are charged at your normal tariff.
- After public pushback, NEPRA confirmed that existing net metering users keep their current terms under agreements signed before 9 February 2026.
- New agreements run for 5 years (down from 7) and can be renewed.
Net metering vs net billing: what’s the difference?
| Old net metering | New net billing | |
|---|---|---|
| How exports are counted | Unit-for-unit: each exported unit cancels one imported unit | Exports and imports are priced separately |
| Value of an exported unit | Roughly equal to your tariff | About Rs 11 (national average energy purchase price) |
| Value of an imported unit | Your tariff | Your full tariff, often Rs 50+ for higher slabs |
| Agreement period | 7 years | 5 years, renewable |
| Who it applies to | Users with agreements before 9 Feb 2026 | New applicants from 9 Feb 2026 |
Why did the government change net metering?
Rooftop solar grew very quickly in Pakistan, with net metered capacity reaching roughly 7,000 MW by mid-2026. The government and power companies argued that the unit-for-unit system shifted grid costs onto consumers without solar. Critics, including energy analysts and some politicians, said the change punishes people who invested in clean power and makes solar less attractive for the middle class.
Does this affect existing solar users?
The first notification suggested existing users could also be moved to net billing, which caused strong objections. NEPRA then issued amendments confirming that consumers with agreements signed before 9 February 2026 continue on their existing net metering terms. When those agreements expire, renewal will follow the rules in force at that time, so keep an eye on future updates from NEPRA and your DISCO.
Is solar still worth it under net billing?
Yes, for most homes, but the way to save has changed. Every unit of solar power you use yourself still saves your full tariff, which can be Rs 50 or more. Every unit you export now earns only about Rs 11. So the goal is to use as much of your own solar power as possible.
- Size to your daytime load: a system much bigger than your daytime use will export a lot of cheap units.
- Shift heavy loads to daytime: run ACs, water pumps, washing machines and irons while the sun is up.
- Consider a hybrid system: batteries store daytime solar for the evening, so fewer units are exported cheaply. See our 5kW inverter guide.
- Use inverter ACs: they cut consumption sharply and match solar output well.
A home using 600 units a month installs 5kW of solar making about 650 units. If it uses 400 of those units directly and exports 250, the direct use saves around Rs 22,000 at a Rs 55 tariff, while the exports earn only about Rs 2,750. The same home saves more by moving more load into daytime than by adding extra panels.
How to apply for a solar grid connection now
The process still runs through your electricity company (LESCO, IESCO, K-Electric, MEPCO, FESCO, GEPCO, PESCO and others). In general you will need:
- A system installed by an installer certified by the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB).
- Your latest electricity bill, CNIC and property documents.
- Technical details of panels and inverter, including documented panel invoices.
- An application through your DISCO’s online portal or office, followed by site inspection and installation of a bidirectional (green) meter.
Requirements and fees can differ between companies, so confirm the latest steps with your DISCO before you start.
Calculate your savings under net billing
Our calculator already applies the Rs 11 export rate for on-grid systems, so the payback period you see reflects the new rules.
My savings under net billing
Bill se units dekhein aur apne ghar ka solar size, cost aur payback janein.
Estimate only. Uses today's average panel rate and typical installation costs; hybrid batteries are extra. Get 2–3 dealer quotes before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Has net metering ended in Pakistan?
For new applicants, yes. Since 9 February 2026 new solar users are placed on net billing. Existing users with agreements signed before that date keep their net metering terms for now.
What is the net billing buyback rate in Pakistan?
Exported units are bought at the national average energy purchase price, which is about Rs 11 per unit under the 2026 rules. NEPRA can revise this rate.
Should I still install solar in 2026?
For most homes with high bills, solar still pays back within a few years because self-used units save the full tariff. Size the system to your daytime use and consider batteries to reduce cheap exports.
How long is the new net billing agreement?
Five years, down from seven under the old rules, with the option to renew.
Prices and rules change often. This page was last reviewed on 11 November 2026. Spotted an outdated rate? Tell us and we'll update it.