IESCO Solar Net-Metering & Bi-Directional Billing
Solar Net-Metering allows residential, commercial, and industrial consumers in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, and Jhelum to sell excess electricity generated by rooftop solar panels back to the IESCO grid. Below is a comprehensive overview of how bi-directional green meter billing works under NEPRA regulations.
1. How Bi-Directional Meters Work
A licensed net-metering connection replaces standard uni-directional meters with a bi-directional green meter that records two distinct energy flows:
Import Units (kWh)
Electricity drawn from the IESCO grid during nighttime or periods when solar production is lower than household energy demand.
Export Units (kWh)
Surplus solar units generated by your solar system during peak sunshine hours and supplied back into IESCO's distribution grid.
2. Peak vs. Off-Peak Unit Offsetting
Your monthly IESCO net-metering bill breaks down consumption into Peak Hours (typically 7 PM to 11 PM in summer) and Off-Peak Hours. Off-peak exported solar units are offset against off-peak import units on a 1:1 unit basis. Excess net credits carry forward to reduce subsequent billing cycle charges.
NEPRA has amended the Distributed Generation Regulations, exempting solar installations up to 25 kW from requiring prior Generation License approval from NEPRA headquarters. Applications are now approved directly at your local IESCO SDO office within 15–20 days.
Read Full Explainer on the 25kW Net-Metering Rule Change →3. How to Obtain an IESCO Net-Metering License
- Hire an AEDB-Certified Solar Installer: Ensure your solar system components (inverters and panels) meet NEPRA grid standards.
- Submit Net-Metering Application: File an application form at your local IESCO Operation Division along with wiring test reports.
- System Inspection & Green Meter Installation: IESCO engineers inspect the installation and replace your meter with an official bi-directional green meter.
- Bi-Directional Meter Energization: Under the revised rules, systems up to 25kW are energized directly by IESCO upon inspection.