In a major policy relief for residential, commercial, and agricultural power consumers across Pakistan, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has enacted historic amendments to the Distributed Generation and Net Metering Regulations.
Under the revised framework, consumers installing rooftop solar systems with an inverter capacity of up to 25 kW are no longer required to obtain prior Generation License approval directly from NEPRA headquarters. This regulatory bottleneck, which previously added weeks to the approval pipeline, is now fully decentralized to distribution companies including IESCO.
Key Highlights of the New Solar Net-Metering Regulation
Up to 25kW Exemption
Residential and small commercial installations (up to 25kW) no longer require separate NEPRA license vetting.
15–20 Day Processing
Total net metering turnaround time reduced from 60–90 days down to under 3 weeks from application to green meter energization.
One-Window IESCO SDO
Direct submission, load-flow testing, and agreement signing managed at the local IESCO Sub-Divisional Office level.
How the Fast-Track Process Works for IESCO Applicants
If you are planning to install a 5kW, 10kW, 15kW, or 20kW on-grid solar system in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, or Jhelum, follow this updated 3-step procedure:
- System Installation & AEDB Installer Certificate: Ensure your solar installer is certified by the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB) / PPIB. Install NEPRA/IESCO approved inverters and tier-1 solar panels.
- Application Submission at Sub-Division: Submit the standard Net-Metering Schedule-I form, single-line diagram (SLD), and copy of your paid electricity bill to your local IESCO SDO office.
- Inspection & Bi-Directional Green Meter Installation: The IESCO metering and testing (M&T) team conducts site inspection, verifies safety disconnect switches, and issues a demand notice for the bidirectional green meter. Once paid, the green meter is energized.
How Net Metering Credits Appear on Your IESCO Monthly Bill
Once your bi-directional green meter is active, your monthly IESCO bill displays two distinct registers:
- Import Units (kWh): Units drawn from the national grid during non-solar hours (evening/night).
- Export Units (kWh): Excess solar units fed into the national grid during peak daylight hours.
If your exported units exceed your imported units, your bill reflects a negative balance (net credit) that carries forward to offset future consumption or is settled quarterly.
For complete requirements, approved inverters, and financial payback calculations, explore our detailed IESCO Solar Net-Metering Guide. If you are applying for a brand new 3-phase connection for your solar installation, review the IESCO New Connection & Demand Notice Guide.