ISLAMABAD: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has announced new regulations for solar power consumers, formally replacing the Net Metering Regulations 2015 with a revised net billing mechanism under the Prosumer Regulations 2026.
According to the new framework, solar consumers, referred to as prosumers, will be able to sell surplus electricity to distribution companies through net billing. The excess power will be purchased at the National Average Energy Purchase Price. Distribution companies (Discos) will require the installation of bi-directional meters or separate import and export meters.
The regulations permit electricity generation ranging from one kilowatt to one megawatt. Prosumer agreements will remain valid for five years and may be renewed upon expiry. For systems with a capacity of 250 kilowatts or above, a mandatory load flow study will be required before approval.
Interconnections will be allowed up to 80 percent of a distribution transformer’s capacity. Discos are required to provide grid interconnection within 15 days after receiving a complete application, while Nepra must issue its concurrence within seven days.
Under the new rules, surplus electricity may either be adjusted in subsequent electricity bills or paid to consumers on a quarterly basis. Discos have also been granted monitoring authority to curb illegal connections and unauthorised extensions, with the power to disconnect supply in case of violations.
The Prosumer Regulations 2026 also apply to biogas-based power consumers and have come into force with immediate effect across the country.
