The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has officially notified the Net Metering Regulations 2026, introducing a net billing system and redefining how electricity generated by consumers is bought, billed, and paid for across Pakistan.

Nepra has issued a formal notification enforcing the Net Metering Regulations 2026. The new regulations will also apply to biogas consumers, expanding the scope beyond traditional solar net metering users.

With the enforcement of the new framework, the earlier Net Metering Regulations 2015 will stand suspended.

Under the newly notified regulations, a net billing system has been introduced. According to Nepra, a bill will be issued at the end of each billing cycle under this revised system.

This marks a structural shift from the previous net metering model, changing how exported and imported electricity units are calculated and settled.

Power purchase, supply rates clarified

As per the notification, electricity generated by net metering consumers and supplied to the national grid will now be purchased at the National Average Energy Price. In contrast, electricity provided to net metering consumers will be charged at the current prevailing tariff applicable to their category.

This dual-rate structure clearly separates buying and selling prices under the new policy.

Nepra stated that consumers supplying additional electricity to the national grid will be compensated on a quarterly basis. Payments will be made for surplus units exported during the quarter, in line with the national average energy price mechanism.

This replaces previous settlement timelines under the older regulations.

Contract duration limited to five years

The new regulations cap the net metering contract period at five years. Once the contract expires, it will be eligible for renewal for another five-year term under the applicable rules at that time.

This change introduces periodic review points for net metering agreements.

With the implementation of the Net Metering Regulations 2026, the Net Metering Regulations 2015 will be formally suspended. All billing, payments, and contracts going forward will be governed under the new regulatory framework.

Nepra said the updated regulations aim to streamline billing, ensure transparency, and align consumer generation with national energy pricing structures.