Since NEPRA replaced net metering with net billing in February 2026, many solar owners have asked the same question: what happens to my existing net metering agreement? In April 2026, NEPRA gave a clear answer. Here is what it means, in plain language.
What changed in February 2026
On 9 February 2026, NEPRA’s new prosumer regulations replaced unit-for-unit net metering with net billing. For new solar users:
- Exported units are credited at the national average purchase price, around Rs10 to 11 per unit, down from about Rs26.
- Imported units are billed separately at the normal tariff, roughly Rs37 to 55 per unit.
- New agreements run for five years, instead of seven.
- Systems cannot exceed the consumer’s sanctioned load, and no new applications are accepted once solar on a transformer reaches 80% of its capacity.
The April 2026 clarification: existing users are protected
In an amendment applied from 9 February 2026, NEPRA confirmed that any solar user with a valid agreement signed under the old regulations will continue to be billed under the old rates and mechanism until that agreement expires.
If your net metering agreement was signed before 9 February 2026, you keep your current billing for the rest of its term.
The catch: do not expand your system
The protection ends if there is a material modification that changes the maximum output of your solar system. Adding more panels or a bigger inverter that raises your output could move you onto net billing at the lower export rate.
Before upgrading, check with your DISCO and an installer whether the change counts as a modification. Often the smarter upgrade is to add a battery rather than more export capacity, so you use more of your own solar power at home.
What should you do now?
- Existing net metering users: keep your system as it is and note your agreement’s expiry date. Add storage if you want more backup during load shedding.
- New solar buyers: design for self-consumption. A hybrid inverter with a lithium battery gets the most value from every unit you generate.
- Not sure what size you need? Use our inverter sizing guide.
For the full background, read our earlier guide: Net Metering to Net Billing: What NEPRA’s 2026 Rules Mean. Need advice on your own system? Contact Infinix Solar in Lahore or call 0321-0911151.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Check the current rules with your DISCO before making changes. Sources: Business Recorder (3 Apr 2026); Profit (3 Apr 2026); Dawn (10 Feb 2026).