How the saving is calculated
- Solar units per month = kW × units per kW per day × 30.
- Units used directly at home save the full grid tariff.
- Imported units = your use − solar used directly, billed at the full tariff.
- Exported units are credited at the buyback rate.
- Bill with solar = imported × tariff − exported × buyback.
Worked example
10 kW system, 4 units/kW/day, home uses 1,000 units a month, 50% of solar used directly, tariff Rs 45, buyback Rs 11.
- Solar: 10 × 4 × 30 = 1,200 units; used at home 600, exported 600
- Imported: 1,000 − 600 = 400 units × Rs 45 = Rs 18,000
- Export credit: 600 × Rs 11 = Rs 6,600, so the bill is Rs 11,400
- Saving: Rs 45,000 − Rs 11,400 = Rs 33,600 a month (old net metering: Rs 45,000)
Net metering vs net billing
| Net metering (old) | Net billing (2026) | |
|---|---|---|
| Exported units | Offset imported units 1:1 | Paid at the buyback rate |
| Imported units | Only the net units billed | All billed at full tariff |
| Agreement term | 7 years | 5 years |
| Best strategy | Export as much as possible | Use solar during the day |
Check what you pay now with the electricity bill calculator, or verify a bill with bill check. Financing the system? Try the loan calculator.
Estimates for guidance only. Tariffs, buyback rates and taxes change – confirm with your DISCO and NEPRA.
Frequently asked questions
What is net billing in Pakistan?
Under the NEPRA Prosumer Regulations 2026, new rooftop solar connections from 9 February 2026 are on net billing: units you take from the grid are charged at the normal tariff, and units you export are bought back at a lower rate. Under the old net metering, exported units cancelled imported units one-for-one.
What is the solar buyback rate in 2026?
The buyback is linked to the national average energy purchase price, reported at about Rs 11 per unit, but figures in the news range from Rs 8 to Rs 25. Check the rate in your agreement with your DISCO and enter it in the calculator.
Does net billing apply to my existing net metering connection?
Existing net-metering contracts keep their old terms until the agreement (usually 7 years) ends. New agreements under the 2026 regulations run for 5 years.
Is solar still worth it under net billing?
Yes for most homes, but the saving now depends on how much solar you use directly. Every unit used at home saves the full tariff (Rs 40–50), while an exported unit earns only the buyback rate. Running ACs, pumps and appliances during the day, or adding batteries, raises the saving.
How many units does a 10 kW solar system produce in Pakistan?
Roughly 1,100–1,400 units a month on average, more in spring and summer and less in December and January. Shading, panel angle, dust and inverter losses all reduce output.
Last reviewed: October 2026