In February 2026 NEPRA issued the Prosumer Regulations 2026 and replaced the old net metering system with net billing for new solar users. If you are planning solar for your home or business, this changes how you should size your system. Here is what changed, in plain language.
Net metering vs net billing
Under net metering, every unit you exported to the grid cancelled out one unit you imported. One for one.
Under net billing, the units you import are charged at the normal grid tariff, while the units you export are bought back at a much lower fixed buyback rate. An exported unit is now worth far less than an imported one.
Who is affected?
- New solar users who apply after the new regulations are on net billing.
- Existing net metering users keep their current terms until their agreement expires.
What this means for your solar system
Because exported units earn less, the value of solar now comes from the units you use yourself. Three practical changes follow:
- Size for your own consumption. A system far bigger than your daytime use mostly exports cheap units.
- Batteries make more sense. Storing daytime solar for the evening saves the full tariff on those units, and gives you backup during load shedding.
- Shift heavy loads to daytime. Running ACs, pumps, washing machines and irons while the sun is up raises your savings.
Is solar still worth it in 2026?
Yes. Grid tariffs in Pakistan remain high, and every unit your panels supply directly to your home saves the full tariff. The difference is that good design matters more now: the right panel size, the right inverter and, for most homes, a right-sized lithium battery.
Check your own numbers
Our solar calculator already follows the net billing rules. Enter your monthly units, choose your backup needs and see the recommended system, price range and monthly saving. For homes, see our hybrid home solar systems.
This article is a general guide. Rates and rules can change; your ENSS engineer will confirm the current buyback rate and application process for your DISCO.
