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Net Metering & Net Billing in Pakistan (2026 Rules)

On 9 February 2026, NEPRA ended net metering for new solar customers nationwide and introduced a net billing model. Here is what changed, what it means for your system, and how we handle the paperwork for you.

WHAT CHANGED

Net Metering vs Net Billing

Under the old net metering system, surplus solar power you exported to the grid was credited at roughly the same rate you were charged for electricity you consumed, effectively letting your meter “spin backward.” Under the new net billing system introduced by NEPRA on 9 February 2026, surplus units are instead bought back at a separate, lower rate, currently around Rs 8-11 per unit, under a 5-year contract. If you already had net metering installed before the change, your existing agreement continues on its original terms.

	Net Metering (Old, Existing Customers)	Net Billing (New, From 9 Feb 2026)
Export Credit Rate	Close to your consumption rate	Separate buy-back rate, roughly Rs 8-11/unit
Contract Length	As per original agreement	5-year contract
Who It Applies To	Customers connected before 9 Feb 2026	All new solar connections
Billing Logic	Net units consumed vs exported	Consumption billed and exports credited separately

What This Means for Your System

Because surplus export is now credited at a lower rate than before, the economics favor using more of your own solar power directly rather than exporting it. This is one reason we now recommend hybrid systems with battery backup more often than before, since storing surplus power for your own use in the evening is now relatively more valuable than exporting it.

DISCOS WE WORK WITH

Same Process, Different Utility

The net billing application process is the same nationwide, just submitted to your local DISCO (Distribution Company). We handle the application and follow-up regardless of which one covers your area.

FESCO (Faisalabad)LESCO (Lahore)IESCO (Islamabad / Rawalpindi)MEPCO (Multan / Bahawalpur)GEPCO (Gujranwala)

THE PROCESS

How the Application Works

Site Survey

We confirm your connection type and system size.

Installation

Your on-grid or hybrid system is installed and tested.

Application

We submit the net billing application to your DISCO.

Meter Exchange

The DISCO installs or configures your bi-directional meter.

Agreement & Activation

The 5-year net billing agreement is signed and activated.

FAQ

Net Billing FAQ

Do I lose my net metering if I already have it?

No. If your net metering agreement was in place before 9 February 2026, it continues under its original terms. The net billing change applies to new solar connections going forward.

What is the net billing buy-back rate?

Surplus units are currently bought back at roughly Rs 8-11 per unit under a 5-year contract. Exact rates can be confirmed with your DISCO at the time of application.

Does AR Solar Hub handle the DISCO paperwork?

Yes, we submit and follow up on the net billing application with your DISCO (FESCO, LESCO, IESCO, MEPCO, GEPCO and others) as part of every on-grid or hybrid installation.

Should I size my system differently under net billing?

Since exported power is now worth less than before, it often makes sense to size your system closer to your own usage, or add a battery with a hybrid system, rather than oversizing purely to export more.

On-Grid Solar System Hybrid Solar System All Services Contact Us

Questions About Net Billing?

We handle the DISCO paperwork for every installation, so you don’t have to.