What is Net Metering in Pakistan?
Net metering is an electricity policy that allows consumers with private renewable energy production systems to sell excess power to the electric grid. This gives a number of statewide financial and economic benefits, including offsetting electric utility (DISCO) bills and assistance to small businesses.
According to National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) regulations, any customer of the national grid having a three-phase connection can avail of net metering for small-scale (1kW to 1MW) solar or wind installations.
The Reality of Net Metering
In Pakistan what is net metering is an electricity policy that allows consumers who own or are planning to install renewable energy facilities like solar panels to export excess electricity produced by their solar power plant back to the grid, 'netting off' it for later use at times of high demand. This reduces the load on the power network and helps utilities deal with peak loads more effectively.
This policy also aligns with national obligations under the Paris Agreement and UNFCCC. It has multiple benefits to the consumer, including saving money on electricity bills and offsetting carbon emissions.
To enjoy the perks of net metering, the consumer must have a solar panel system that is net meter compliant. They must also apply for a net metering license to their electric distribution company (DISCO) and submit all necessary documentation. The DISCO will review the application and notify the applicant of its acceptance within five working days.
How to Apply for Net Metering?
Net metering is an electricity policy that permits renewable energy consumers to generate their own electricity and then sell extra units of it to the national grid. This helps limit the process of fossil fuel burning for power production and minimizes global warming risks.
The process of applying for net metering is simple and easy in Pakistan. All you need to do is fill out an application form and submit it with all required documents to the relevant DISCO.
Once the application is received by the DISCO office, they will acknowledge it and start processing your request. Within five working days, they will issue an acknowledgment letter if the application is complete.
If any information or documents are missing, the DISCO will ask you to send them within seven working days. If they find that all demands and requirements have been met, they will proceed with the process to agreement.
How to Install a Net Meter?
Solar panel system generates more energy during the day as it receives ample sunlight. However, this excess electricity can go to waste if it is not sold to the grid.
Therefore, it is important to install a net meter in Pakistan to maximize your solar power production. This will not only reduce your electric bill but also help you earn money by selling the extra electricity you produce to the grid.
A net meter is installed on the rooftop of your home and measures the amount of energy you produce. Then, it calculates the difference between what you use and what you produce.
When more power is produced than used, credits are added to your credit bank. These credits are used to offset any power you may need from the grid at a later date. In some cases, the credits will be applied at a lower rate than the retail rate you paid for electricity before going solar.
What are the Benefits of Net Metering?
In Pakistan, you can have a solar panel system installed to generate electricity for your home or business. This is a great way to save money on your electric bill and help the environment at the same time.
But did you know that you could also earn extra money by storing your generated energy in a battery? A new incentive called battery net metering is starting to emerge, so you might want to consider it.
The main advantage of net metering is that it allows you to buy and sell excess power, which gives you a price symmetry between your generation and your utility bill. You can even make a profit by selling your excess power to the grid for a higher rate than your utility is charging you.
In addition, you can use your solar battery during peak demand periods, when the sun is not available. This gives you more control over your energy usage and ensures you are getting the most out of your renewable power system.
