What Is Net Metering and How Does It Work in Pakistan?
Net metering is a billing mechanism that allows solar system owners to export surplus electricity to the national grid and receive credit on their electricity bill. Under Pakistan's Net Metering Regulations (SRO 892(I)/2015 and subsequent NEPRA amendments), any consumer with a sanctioned WAPDA connection can install solar and connect it to the grid.
A bidirectional smart meter records two measurements:
- Import (drawn from WAPDA): when you consume more than your solar is producing
- Export (fed into grid): when your solar produces more than you consume
At billing time, your exported units are credited against your imported units. If exports exceed imports in a billing period, the net credit rolls forward to the next month. Credits cannot typically be encashed — they must be used against future consumption.
Current Status (2026): The Government of Pakistan's Prime Minister's office blocked proposed reductions to net metering buyback rates in early 2025. Net metering remains available at regulated rates. Saigal Solar recommends proceeding with solar now while policies remain favorable.
FESCO Net Metering Application Process — Step by Step
Install an Approved Solar System
Your solar system must use inverters on NEPRA's approved equipment list and be installed by a registered solar company. Saigal Solar is a registered installer — we ensure full compliance from day one.
Prepare the Required Documents
CNIC copy · Latest WAPDA bill · Property ownership/tenancy agreement · System single-line diagram (SLD) · Inverter NEPRA approval certificate · Installer registration certificate · Completed DG&A application form.
Submit DG&A Application to FESCO
The Distributed Generation & Aggregation (DG&A) application is submitted to FESCO's Engineering Department at your local Sub-Division Office, along with the prescribed application fee (Rs. 2,000–5,000 depending on system size).
FESCO Technical Review & Site Inspection
FESCO engineers review your documentation and typically conduct a site visit to inspect the installation, verify safety compliance, and confirm the inverter is on the approved list.
Bidirectional Smart Meter Installation
FESCO installs a bidirectional (import/export) smart meter at your premises at your cost (approximately Rs. 15,000–25,000 for the meter). This replaces your existing single-direction meter.
Net Metering Activated
FESCO issues a net metering agreement and activates credits on your account. From this point, your monthly bill shows both import and export readings, and surplus generation earns bill credits.
Net Metering Timeline & Requirements
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical Timeline | 6–12 weeks from application to meter installation |
| Maximum System Size (Residential) | Up to sanctioned load (typically 5–15kW for homes) |
| Maximum System Size (Industrial) | Up to 1MW with NEPRA special approval |
| Buyback Rate (Residential, 2025) | ~Rs. 27/unit (quarterly regulated rate, subject to NEPRA revision) |
| Meter Cost | Rs. 15,000–25,000 (paid by consumer) |
| Credit Rollover | Unused credits roll to next billing period indefinitely |
| DISCO in Faisalabad | FESCO (Faisalabad Electric Supply Company) |
Let Saigal Solar Handle Your Net Metering Application
We have completed dozens of FESCO net metering applications in Faisalabad — residential, commercial, and industrial. When you install with us, we include the complete net metering application service at no extra charge. Our team prepares all documentation, submits the application, coordinates FESCO site visits, and follows up until your meter is installed and credits are activated.