The solar energy world in Punjab is changing fast. Many solar owners, home users, and business investors are now confused after reports that solar net metering suspended or seriously restricted in 2026. This update matters to everyone with rooftop solar panels or those thinking about installing them. Let’s break it down in simple words so you understand what’s happening right now.
Table of Contents
What Is Solar Net Metering and Why It Matters
Solar net metering is a system where households or businesses with solar panels can send extra electricity back to the grid and get credit or payment for it. It helps reduce electricity bills and encourages clean energy. Without net metering, solar users may lose this benefit.
Read More: Mera Ghar Mera Ashiana Housing Scheme
Quick Facts: Solar Net Metering in 2026
| Situation | What It Means |
| Net metering suspended by some DISCOs | Companies stopped accepting new applications without permission – this is not legal, says the power regulator. |
| NEPRA intervention | The power regulator (NEPRA) ordered companies to explain the suspension and continue normal service. |
| Policy under revision | New plans may replace net metering with a net billing system, where you get a fixed rate for exported electricity. |
Solar Net Metering Policy Changes and Updates
In December 2025, Pakistan’s Ministry of Energy and NEPRA agreed to revise the old net metering policy. The main goal is to replace net metering with net billing. Under net billing, solar owners don’t cancel out their imported and exported electricity one‑to‑one anymore. Instead, they sell power back to the grid at a set rate — likely lower than before.
Key Points of the Revised Plan:
- New solar connections may be part of a net billing model, not net metering.
- Buyback rates (the amount paid for solar energy sent to the grid) are expected to be fixed, possibly around Rs12 per unit.
- Smaller solar system owners (below 25 kW) may need a special licence.
Read More: New Passport Design
How This Affects Solar Users in Punjab
| User Type | Impact in 2026 |
| Existing net metering users | Most may continue under old agreements until expiry, but exact terms depend on NEPRA rules. (ProPakistani) |
| New solar owners | Could face net billing instead of net metering, meaning fewer savings. (ARY News) |
| Investors & businesses | May postpone solar projects until rules are clear. (Dunya News) |
Solar users in Punjab now have many questions. The key takeaway is that net metering is not fully removed yet, but the way it works will change soon. Some companies stopped new applications, but NEPRA has said this action is not correct without approval.
What You Should Do Now
- Check with your electricity company (DISCO) if net metering applications are still open.
- Follow NEPRA’s official announcements — they are guiding companies to follow rules.
- Talk to your solar installer to understand how net billing might affect your returns.
- Keep documentation of your current agreement in case rates or rules change.
Read More: Forgot Your PAVE Portal Password
FAQs
Q: Has net metering been permanently stopped in Punjab?
Not yet. Some power companies paused applications, but the regulator has said this action is not legal. The system may change to a new net billing model soon.
Q: Will existing solar users lose their benefits?
Most likely not immediately. Existing contracts usually stay valid until they expire, but future billing may shift with new rules.
Q: Should I wait to install solar panels?
It’s best to talk with your installer and check local rules right now. The value you get from selling extra power may be lower than before.
Q: Who decides these changes?
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) and the federal Ministry of Energy are leading the revisions.
Related Posts
