To apply for net metering or net billing in Pakistan in 2026, you install an approved rooftop solar system, submit an application to your DISCO with your documents, get a technical feasibility report, obtain a distributed generation licence from NEPRA, and then the DISCO installs a bi-directional meter. Since 9 February 2026, new applicants are placed on the net billing framework rather than the old net metering, which changes how your exported units are paid. This guide walks through eligibility, documents and the step-by-step process.
Net metering or net billing: which one applies to you
If you applied before 9 February 2026 under the old rules, your case falls under net metering, with one-to-one unit exchange. New applications from 9 February 2026 onward go on net billing, where the surplus units you export are bought back at a lower rate than you pay to import. For the full explanation of what changed and how it hits your bill, read our guide on net metering to net billing 2026.
The application steps below are broadly the same for both; the difference is the tariff you end up on.
Eligibility: check these first
Before spending on a system, confirm you meet the basic requirements set by NEPRA and your DISCO:
- Active connection with no arrears. Your electricity account must be clear of outstanding bills at the time of application.
- Three-phase connection. Single-phase consumers generally need to upgrade before applying.
- System within sanctioned load. Your solar capacity should not exceed the sanctioned load registered with your DISCO. Domestic systems typically range from about 1 kW upward.
- Approved equipment. Your inverter should appear on NEPRA's approved equipment list, and proper safety protection should be installed.
Rules and thresholds can change, so verify the current requirements with your DISCO or at NEPRA before you commit.
Documents you will need
Applications are usually rejected for missing paperwork, so gather these first:
- CNIC of the person in whose name the meter is registered.
- A recent electricity bill with no outstanding arrears.
- Proof of property ownership such as a registry, allotment letter or fard.
- System specifications, including datasheets for the inverter and solar panels.
- A single-line schematic diagram of the proposed system, usually prepared by your installer.
Step-by-step application process
- Hire a qualified installer. Choose an experienced solar installer to size and design your system and prepare the schematic diagram. Getting the design right avoids re-work later.
- Submit the application to your DISCO. Applications are typically lodged with the office of the Deputy Manager (Operations) in your area, along with the documents above.
- Get the technical feasibility report. The DISCO inspects the proposal and, if it is sound, issues a technical feasibility report confirming your connection can support the system.
- Obtain the NEPRA licence. Your case is forwarded to NEPRA for a distributed generation licence. NEPRA charges a licensing fee per kilowatt of capacity, so confirm the current fee for your system size. This stage usually takes a few weeks.
- Inspection and compliance. An inspector verifies the installation is safe and correctly integrated with the grid, and issues a certificate of compliance.
- Bi-directional meter installation. Finally, the DISCO installs the bi-directional meter that records both the units you import and the units you export. There is a cost for this meter; ask your DISCO for the current amount.
From application to a working, metered system usually takes around one to three months, depending on your DISCO and how complete your paperwork is.
What to expect on your bill afterwards
Once commissioned, your bill will show imported units charged at your normal tariff, and exported units credited at your applicable rate, at the retail rate under old net metering, or at the lower buyback rate under net billing. If you want to understand every line, our guide on unit slabs, fuel price adjustment and taxes explains the charges in plain language.
Because net billing pays less for exports, using your own solar power during the day now saves more than exporting it. Plan your heavy usage for daylight hours.
Roman Urdu: khulasa
Net metering ya net billing ke liye apply karne ka tareeqa: pehle NEPRA ki approved list ka solar system lagwayein, phir apne DISCO ko application aur documents (CNIC, bill bila arrears, property ownership proof, system specs, single-line diagram) jama karayein. DISCO technical feasibility report deta hai, phir NEPRA se distributed generation licence milta hai, aur akhir mein DISCO bi-directional meter lagata hai. Poora process aam tor par 1 se 3 maheenay leta hai.
9 February 2026 se naye applicants net billing par jaate hain, jahan export units ka rate kam hota hai. Is liye ab din ke waqt apni bijli khud istemaal karna zyada faidemand hai. Fees aur exact rate DISCO ya nepra.org.pk se confirm karein.
Check your bill now
Already have solar, or want to track your units? Enter your 14-digit reference number on the eBill Pakistan homepage or your DISCO page such as LESCO or GEPCO to view, print or download your latest bill in seconds, free and with no sign-up.