Green Meter Policy Pakistan 2026: NEPRA Net Metering Rules & Unit Buyback Rates
By PSI Editorial · 6 min · Updated August 21, 2026
💡 Quick Summary & Key Takeaways
- Policy: NEPRA Net Metering Regulations (2026 Update)
- Export Credit: ~PKR 19 – 22/unit adjusted against off-peak grid units
- Eligibility: 3-Phase consumer connection with NOC from local DISCO (LESCO, IESCO, K-Electric, FESCO, etc.)
- Processing Timeline: 30 to 60 days from application submission
1. Overview of NEPRA Net Metering & Green Meter Rules
Net metering in Pakistan allows residential and commercial solar owners to export surplus daytime electricity to the national grid. Under NEPRA rules, bidirectional 'green meters' track both imported units from WAPDA/K-Electric and exported solar units.
In 2026, net metering remains active across all distribution companies (LESCO, IESCO, FESCO, GEPCO, MEPCO, PESCO, HESCO, SEPCO, QESCO, and K-Electric). Despite periodic policy discussions regarding gross metering, standard net metering remains the operative regime for residential systems up to 25kW.
2. Unit Export Rates vs Billing Adjustment
Understanding how units are billed is critical for solar ROI:
- Off-Peak Offsetting: Exported units primarily offset off-peak imported units at a 1:1 unit ratio.
- Peak Hour Usage: Peak hours cannot be offset with exported units; they are billed at standard peak tariffs (Rs. 60+ per unit).
- Surplus Settlement: At the end of each billing cycle or quarter, net surplus exported electricity is compensated by DISCOs at the notified average energy purchase price (PKR ~20–22/kWh).
3. Technical Requirements for Green Meter Approval
To qualify for green meter approval, your solar system must meet NEPRA standard SRO requirements:
1. Three-Phase Connection: Single-phase consumers must first apply for a three-phase meter upgrade.
2. Approved Inverter: Inverter must be Tier-1 certified with anti-islanding protection (e.g., Huawei, Growatt, GoodWe, Solis, Sungrow, Inverex on-grid/hybrid models).
3. Earthing & Protection: Certified earth resistance test below 5 Ohms and approved DC/AC surge protection devices (SPDs).
4. DISCO Inspection: Sub-divisional inspection of safety isolators and wiring before meter commissioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current green meter buyback rate in Pakistan for 2026?
NEPRA credits off-peak export units at the national average generation cost, approximately PKR 19 to PKR 22 per exported unit, credited against your monthly WAPDA/KE bill.
Is there a ban on green meters in Pakistan?
No, green meter net metering is not banned. DISCOs continue processing net-metering applications for 3-phase consumers with three-phase bidirectional meters.
Can single-phase meters get a green meter?
No, NEPRA net metering regulations mandate a three-phase connection with a minimum 3kW solar system size.
How long does green meter installation take?
Typically 4 to 8 weeks depending on DISCO load flow testing and meter availability.