How to apply for solar net-metering in Pakistan (2026)

1. Confirm sanctioned load. Your DISCO connection must have a sanctioned load ≥ 1 kW and ≤ 1 MW. Domestic 3-phase connections qualify automatically. If you're on single-phase, upgrade to 3-phase FIRST (Rs. 30k–60k, 30–45 days) — net metering will not be granted on single-phase above 5 kW.
2. Hire an AEDB-licensed vendor. Only vendors on the AEDB Certified Vendor List can submit the file. Verify at aedb.org — asking any random solar installer will get your file rejected. Vendor handles design, DISCO paperwork, and meter coordination.
3. System sizing rule. Under SRO 251(I)/2026, you can install up to your sanctioned load. If your sanctioned load is 5 kW, install up to 5 kW DC. Vendors often propose 1.3× (i.e. 6.5 kW DC / 5 kW AC inverter) — this is allowed as long as inverter AC output ≤ sanctioned load.
4. Submit application (Form-A) to your DISCO. Vendor files it with: CNIC, latest bill, ownership/NOC, one-line diagram, inverter and panel datasheets, AEDB vendor licence, structural certificate, earthing plan. DISCO fee: Rs. 5,000–7,500.
5. Site inspection. DISCO team inspects within 15 days. They verify installation matches drawings, safety earthing, disconnection switch accessibility, and inverter certification (must be on the approved list). Common failure: no visible AC-DC isolator, no rapid-shutdown, wrong-colour cables.
6. Sign the Net-Billing Agreement. Under 2026 rules this is net-billing, not net-metering — surplus is exported at ~Rs. 11–13/unit (NEPRA-approved buy-back), imports billed at your slab rate. Systems commissioned before 13 March 2025 keep old net-metering (1:1 credit).
7. Bi-directional meter installation. DISCO installs a bi-directional meter (they charge Rs. 8,000–15,000 in advance). Old meter is removed. Meter is sealed and commissioned in your presence — insist on the seal number in writing.
8. Commissioning certificate. Vendor submits final test report. DISCO issues the licence and you appear on the Net-Metering register. From this date, exports are credited on your monthly bill.

• CNIC (front + back) of connection holder
• Latest paid electricity bill (last 3 months)
• Property ownership documents OR notarised owner NOC if tenant
• System one-line electrical diagram (vendor provides)
• Panel + inverter datasheets and AEDB approval certificates
• Structural stability certificate for rooftop (vendor provides)
• Earthing / lightning-protection design
• AEDB Category-A/B installer licence copy
• Bank challan of application fee (Rs. 5,000–7,500)

Net-metering (legacy): 1 unit exported = 1 unit credit against imports. Effective export value ≈ Rs. 42.72 for Unprotected. Systems commissioned before 13 March 2025 keep this for 5 years then transition.

Net-billing (SRO 251(I)/2026): Exports credited at NEPRA-approved buy-back rate (~Rs. 11–13/unit). Imports billed at normal slab rate. This is why sizing to self-consumption now beats oversizing for export.

• Not on the AEDB Certified Vendor List (search vendor name at aedb.org before signing).
• Quote uses off-brand inverter you can't find on the AEDB approval list.
• Refuses to share brand + wattage of panels in writing.
• Bundles bi-directional meter cost into vendor invoice — DISCO charges you directly, this is a markup scam.
• Promises grid-tie commissioning in under 30 days — physically impossible in most DISCOs.
• Doesn't insist on AC and DC isolators, MC4 connectors, and DC SPD in the BOM.