NET METERING
Summary
“Net Metering enables individuals with solar panels to sell excess electricity back to the national grid, reducing monthly bills. In Pakistan, individuals cannot directly apply for net metering. Instead, they must engage with an Active Power Energy registered solar company. The company prepares and submits the application to the Punjab Energy Department and NEPRA on behalf of the consumer. Upon approval, agreements are signed, and necessary licenses and NOCs are issued, allowing consumers to generate renewable energy and sell it back to the grid.”
What is Net Metering
“Net metering allows customers with solar panels to send surplus electricity they generate back to the grid, earning credits on their electric bills from the utility company. When solar panels produce more electricity than is used, the excess is fed into the grid. Monthly, the utility company calculates the difference between generated and consumed electricity. Customers are billed only for the net electricity used, receiving credits for the surplus contributed to the grid.
This arrangement not only helps reduce electricity costs but also benefits the environment. For those contemplating solar panel installation, net metering offers significant financial and environmental advantages.”
How To Apply for Net Metering in Pakistan?
“Net Metering, introduced by NEPRA in 2015, allows individuals to export excess electricity they generate to the national grid. NEPRA has established a detailed process for applying for net metering in Pakistan. Below, we’ll explore each step of the net metering application process:
Contact an Active Power Energy registered solar company to initiate the application.
The solar company prepares and submits the application to the Punjab Energy Department and NEPRA.
Upon approval, agreements are signed and necessary licenses and NOCs are issued.
Consumers can then generate renewable energy and sell it back to the grid, reducing electricity bills.
For efficient and successful net metering application, contact Alpha Solar at. +92 345 6602026“
Preparation of Application
After you contact an Active Power Energy registered solar company such as Alpha Solar, the process of your net metering application begins. At this stage, the company will request essential documents from you, including your National ID card and electricity bill. They will provide comprehensive guidance throughout each step of the application process and will forward it to the relevant department.
Inspection and NOC Issuance
Once the application is approved. It moves into next process where Punjab Energy Department carries out an inspection and issues a No Objection Certificate (NOC) in line with SRO 892 (1) / 2015. This step ensures that all regulations and standards are followed and maintained.
Signing of Agreement
After the issuance of a No Objection Certificate, an agreement is signed between the consumer and the local electricity provider, such as LESCO. The agreement is valid for the next three years, during which you are permitted to export the surplus electricity generated by your solar panels to the national grid.
Allotment of Generation License
Once the agreement is signed, it is then submitted to NEPRA (National Electric Power Regulatory Authority) for verification. This crucial step ensures compliance with regulations and grants you the official generation license. This license serves as the authorization to operate as an independent power producer, allowing you to generate electricity for a period of three years. With this license in hand, you have the legal recognition and authority to contribute to the national energy grid with your solar power generation.
Activation of Net Metering
As soon as you obtain the generation license successfully, your net metering services activated. you will net meter installed at your home and will have the opportunity to save money by selling electricity to the grid.
