If you live in Faisalabad and are planning to install solar, FESCO net metering is one of the most important topics to understand before buying your system. The process connects your solar installation with the FESCO distribution network under the applicable regulatory framework. However, the rules changed significantly in 2026. NEPRA notified the Prosumer Regulations, 2026 on February 9, 2026. These regulations replaced the earlier 2015 net-metering framework and introduced a net-billing arrangement for electricity imported from and exported to the grid.

That change makes it even more important to understand how the current system works. This guide explains FESCO net metering 2026, eligibility, documents, application stages, costs, timelines, system sizing, billing, common problems, and maintenance in simple English. If you're considering a NEPRA-regulated solar installation, use this guide before signing an installation contract. The goal is to help you make a better decision based on your electricity use and the rules that apply to your connection.

What Is FESCO Net Metering in Faisalabad?

FESCO net metering refers to the process of connecting an eligible solar generation system to the electricity distribution network serving Faisalabad. Under the 2026 Prosumer Regulations, an eligible applicant can connect a distributed generation facility using solar, wind, or biogas generation. The regulations define a distributed generation facility as a system up to 1 MW.

The basic idea remains straightforward. Your grid-tied solar system produces electricity for your property, while your connection can also exchange electricity with the utility grid. A suitable bidirectional meter records electricity flowing in both directions. That means the system can measure electricity supplied by the distribution company and electricity supplied by the prosumer.

How Does FESCO Net Metering Work in 2026?

During sunny hours, your on-grid solar system generates electricity. Your home or business uses that electricity first. If generation exceeds your immediate demand, the remaining excess solar electricity can flow toward the grid through the approved interconnection arrangement. When your solar production isn't enough, electricity can flow from the grid back to your property.

The important 2026 difference is billing. NEPRA's regulations describe a net billing arrangement in which electricity supplied by the licensee to the prosumer is billed at the applicable tariff. Electricity supplied by the prosumer to the licensee receives credit at the national average energy purchase price. For background on grid parameters, check updates via CPPA-G power purchase frameworks.

How Does a Bidirectional Meter Work?

A bi-directional electricity meter measures both electricity import and electricity export. This allows the billing system to distinguish between power you receive from the grid and power your approved solar facility supplies to the grid. NEPRA's 2026 regulations require metering equipment capable of accurately measuring electricity flow in two directions.

Who Is Eligible for FESCO Net Metering?

Eligibility depends on the applicant's electricity connection and the technical conditions of the proposed generation facility. The 2026 regulations define an applicant as a 3-phase 400V or 11kV consumer of a licensee. The proposed generation capacity also cannot exceed the sanctioned load of the premises under the current rules.

That means you shouldn't choose a solar system simply because a salesperson recommends a particular size. Your sanctioned load, electricity consumption, connection type, property requirements, and technical feasibility all matter. For Faisalabad homeowners, verifying connection details directly through the official Faisalabad Electric Supply Company portal before purchasing equipment can prevent expensive surprises later.

What Are the FESCO Net Metering Requirements in 2026?

The FESCO net metering requirements now need to be considered alongside the 2026 Prosumer Regulations. The proposed distributed generation facility must comply with applicable interconnection and safety requirements. Its capacity cannot exceed the sanctioned load of the applicant's premises. For facilities of 250 kW or more, the regulations require a load-flow study through the licensee or a reputable consultant registered with the Pakistan Engineering Council.

The technical side is equally important. The regulations require appropriate protection and control arrangements. They also state that grid-connected inverters and generators must comply with UL 1741 and applicable international standards notified by the Authority.

What Documents Are Required for FESCO Net Metering?

Your FESCO net metering documents should be prepared carefully before submission. The exact paperwork can depend on the application and applicable procedures. The 2026 regulations require an application with necessary documents. The licensee must acknowledge the application and tell the applicant whether it is complete within five working days.

For a typical application, you should expect to provide information connected with your consumer electricity connection, proposed generation facility, technical design, and supporting identification or ownership information where required. Before submitting anything, confirm the latest official checklist with the PITC Net Metering Portal or authorized process.

How to Apply for FESCO Net Metering Step by Step

The FESCO net metering application starts with checking whether your connection and proposed system meet the applicable requirements. You then prepare the required application and supporting documents and submit them to the licensee. Under the 2026 regulations, the licensee must acknowledge receipt and communicate whether the application is complete within five working days.

After completeness is established, the licensee conducts an initial review. The regulations specify up to 15 working days for this review. If the proposal is technically feasible and the requirements are satisfied, the parties enter into an agreement. The licensee then issues a connection charge estimate, after which the applicant pays the applicable amount.

Can I Apply for FESCO Net Metering Myself?

Yes, an applicant can submit the application. However, the technical design, protection equipment, inverter selection, electrical installation, and documentation require careful handling. A competent installer can reduce mistakes, but you should still understand what you're signing rather than handing over the entire process blindly.

How Much Does FESCO Net Metering Cost in Faisalabad?

The FESCO net metering cost isn't the same thing as the price of your complete solar system. Your overall investment may include solar panels, an inverter, mounting equipment, electrical protection, wiring, installation labor, monitoring equipment, and interconnection-related expenses.

Under the 2026 regulations, the prosumer is responsible for costs associated with interconnection facilities up to the interconnection point, including metering installation. The prosumer can also be responsible for reasonable costs associated with distribution-system improvements required solely for the interconnection.

How Long Does FESCO Net Metering Take?

The FESCO net metering timeline depends on the application, technical review, payment, equipment availability, and other practical factors. The 2026 regulations provide specific working-day periods for several stages. For example, the licensee has five working days to acknowledge an application and establish whether it is complete. The initial review has a 15-working-day period.

After an agreement is executed, the licensee must issue the connection charge estimate within seven working days. The applicant has seven working days to pay it. The licensee then has up to 15 working days after payment to install and commission the proposed interconnection facility.

Net Metering vs Net Billing: What Is the Difference?

The terminology matters in 2026 because NEPRA's new framework explicitly describes billing as a net billing arrangement. The regulations state that electricity supplied by the licensee is billed at the applicable tariff, while electricity supplied by the prosumer to the licensee receives credit at the national average energy purchase price. For broader regulatory insights, check analysis provided on Solar Citizen Pakistan.

Common FESCO Net Metering Problems and Avoidance

Many delays happen before the application reaches the final stage. Incorrect consumer information, incomplete documents, unsuitable equipment, poor electrical work, inverter issues, or a mismatch between the approved design and installed system can create unnecessary complications. You can track ongoing regional setup updates via DISCO distribution guidelines.

"Practical rule: In 2026, design your solar system around consumption first and export second."