• By Best Solar Company PK
  • 08 Jul, 2026
  • Net Metering
  • 7 min read

The biggest solar story in Pakistan this year is the shift from net metering to net billing under NEPRA’s new Prosumer Regulations, 2026. If you have solar — or you are about to install it — here is a clear, up-to-date breakdown of what changed, whether you are protected, and why solar is still very much worth it.

What actually changed?

The 2026 regulations repealed the decade-old net-metering framework and moved rooftop solar users onto a net-billing model. Under net metering, exported units were credited at close to the retail tariff. Under net billing, the surplus you send to the grid is bought back at the National Average Energy Purchase Price — reported at roughly Rs 11–13 per unit — while the electricity you draw from the grid is still charged at the full tariff. New prosumer agreements now run for five years instead of seven. In short: exporting to the grid is far less rewarding than it used to be.

Are existing solar users protected?

Largely, yes. If you had a valid, signed net-metering agreement before 9 February 2026, you continue on your old terms and old buyback rate until that agreement naturally expires. If you add extra capacity to an existing system after that date, the added portion falls under the new net-billing rules while your original system stays protected. Because the policy drew heavy public backlash — and the Prime Minister ordered an appeal while NEPRA floated draft amendments — the exact rules are still being contested. Always confirm the current position before you sign anything.

Does solar still save you money? (Yes)

Absolutely — the winning strategy has just changed. With grid tariffs effectively running Rs 45–70 per unit, every unit you generate and use yourself is a unit you do not have to buy at those high rates. The value now comes from self-consumption, not export. We explain the full picture in net metering vs net billing in Pakistan.

  • Right-size your system to your daytime usage so you consume most of what you generate.
  • Add a battery so surplus daytime energy powers your evenings instead of being exported cheaply.
  • Choose a hybrid solar system that prioritises solar, battery and grid intelligently.
  • Aim to self-consume around 85–95% of your solar energy for the best returns.

Net billing did not kill solar — it simply rewards using your own power over exporting it. A hybrid system with storage is now the smartest setup in Pakistan.

What you should do now

  • Already approved before Feb 2026? You are protected — make the most of your existing agreement.
  • Installing now? Design for self-consumption with a hybrid inverter and battery, not for heavy export.
  • Applying for net metering/billing? See our step-by-step guide to applying in Pakistan.
  • Get a professional load assessment so your system matches how you actually use electricity.

Confused about how the new rules affect your bill? Get a free consultation and we will design a system that keeps your savings high under net billing.

Best Solar Company PK designs and installs reliable solar systems in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, Taunsa Sharif and Karachi. Contact us for a free survey and the best advice for your home or business.