Net Metering in Pakistan: A Complete Guide (2025)

Introduction

Electricity prices in Pakistan are rising every year, and load-shedding is still a reality for many households. That’s why more and more families are turning to solar energy. But here’s the game-changer: net metering. With net metering, you can not only reduce your electricity bill but also earn credits for the excess electricity you produce. In this blog, we’ll explain how net metering works in Pakistan, why it’s worth it, and how you can get started.

What is Net Metering?

An on-grid solar system is directly connected to your local utility provider (such as WAPDA, KE, or other DISCOs).

Net metering is a system that allows you to sell the extra electricity generated by your solar panels back to the grid. In simple terms, your electricity meter runs both ways:

When your solar system produces more electricity than you use, the excess goes to the WAPDA/KE grid.
When you need more electricity than your solar system generates, you can draw from the grid.

The best part? At the end of the month, you only pay for the net usage — the difference between what you used and what you exported.

How Net Metering Works in Pakistan

Apply for Net Metering License
Homeowners with on-grid or hybrid solar systems can apply through their local DISCO (IESCO, LESCO, KE, MEPCO, etc.).
System Inspection
Your system must meet certain technical standards. The DISCO inspects your solar installation and inverter.
Bi-Directional Meter Installation
A special meter is installed that records both imported (grid) and exported (solar) electricity.
Monthly Bill Adjustment
- If you produce more electricity than you consume, the excess becomes a credit.
- If you consume more than you produce, you only pay the difference.

Benefits of Net Metering in Pakistan

✅ Lower Bills – Imagine cutting your WAPDA bill by 70–90%!
✅ Earn from Excess Power – Sell surplus energy instead of wasting it.
✅ Fast ROI – A typical solar setup with net metering pays for itself within 3–5 years.
✅ Energy Independence – Protect yourself from rising tariffs.
✅ Environmentally Friendly – Help reduce Pakistan’s reliance on fossil fuels.

Note: Prices vary depending on equipment brand, inverter type, and installation quality.

Net Metering Requirements in Pakistan (2025)

System Size: Minimum 3kW, maximum 1MW.
Connection Type: Must be on-grid or hybrid (off-grid systems are not eligible).
Approved Equipment: Solar panels and inverters must be approved by AEDB (Alternative Energy Development Board).
License Application: Apply through your distribution company (LESCO, IESCO, KE, etc.).

Cost of Net Metering Setup

While the solar system is your main cost, net metering requires a small additional investment:

Bi-directional meter installation: PKR 30,000 – 50,000 (approx.)
Application & processing fee: Around PKR 5,000 – 10,000 depending on the DISCO.

This cost is minimal compared to the long-term savings.

Real-Life Example

Suppose your home consumes 500 units of electricity per month. Your 5kW solar system produces around 600 units:

500 units are consumed by your home.
100 units go back to the grid.
Result: Your bill shows zero net usage and 100 units credit carried forward.

Over a year, this can save you lakhs of rupees in electricity bills.

Why You Should Consider Net Metering

In Pakistan, where electricity rates are touching historic highs, net metering is not just an option — it’s a smart investment. For urban households, it provides the perfect balance between savings and reliability. With WAPDA bills becoming a burden, net metering offers relief and financial stability.

Final Thoughts

Net metering is one of the biggest advantages of going solar in Pakistan. It transforms your home from just a consumer of electricity into a mini power plant. If you’re planning to install a solar system, make sure to ask about net metering from day one.

👉 At Cresto Energy, we help Pakistani homeowners set up their solar systems with complete net metering support, from application to installation.

💡 Ready to slash your bills and take control of your energy?
👉 Contact us now to explore net metering options for your home.