LESCO Net Metering Application Guide
Updated 2 August 2026 · By SolarNevs Research Desk, Dealer surveys + verified sources · 4 sources · Method ↗
LESCO Net Metering Application Guide
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Key Takeaways
- NEPRA net billing framework (July 2026) establishes a buyback export tariff of Rs 11 (July 2026) per kWh.
- Unprotected residential grid imports cost between Rs 50 and Rs 65 (July 2026) per kWh.
- Pairing solar with lithium battery storage optimizes evening peak shaving and shortens payback to ~3.2 years.
- All net billing applications require AEDB-certified installer documentation and official DISCO clearance.
Introduction
Understanding the net billing regulations and DISCO processes in Pakistan is essential for optimizing solar investment returns under the 2026 NEPRA policy framework.
How does the LESCO net metering application process work in Lahore?
Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) manages net billing prosumer connections across Lahore, Kasur, Okara, and Sheikhupura districts. The application process enables residential, commercial, and industrial consumers to connect solar systems to the LESCO distribution network legally under NEPRA 2026 regulations.
The application journey involves initial application filing at the local LESCO Sub-Divisional Office (SDO), technical feasibility inspection, transformer headroom verification, electrical wiring audit, generation license issuance by NEPRA, and final bidirectional green meter installation.
Submitting a complete application package verified by an AEDB-certified solar installer prevents administrative delays and ensures approval within standard timelines.
What documents are required to apply for LESCO net metering?
Preparing accurate application documentation is necessary for smooth processing through LESCO customer service centers. Missing or incomplete forms cause application rejections.
Document Checklist for LESCO Net Billing Application.
- Form Schedule-I application signed by the registered electricity connection owner.
- Clear copy of Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) of the applicant.
- Paid copy of the latest monthly LESCO electricity bill showing active connection status.
- Single-line diagram (SLD) of the solar PV system signed by a Professional Engineer registered with Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC).
- AEDB vendor license copy certifying the installer under Category C-1 or higher.
- Factory test report and datasheet of the installed hybrid or grid-tied solar inverter.
- Earth pit resistance test report confirming grounding below 5 ohms.
What are the official fees and cost breakdown for LESCO net billing?
LESCO charges standardized fees for net billing connection processing and meter installation. The primary processing fee mandated by NEPRA is Rs 1,000 (July 2026) per kW of sanctioned load.
Fee Description | Official Rate | Payment Collector |
|---|---|---|
Application Processing Fee | Rs 1,000 per kW | LESCO Bank Demand Draft |
Bidirectional Green Meter Fee | Rs 35,000 to Rs 50,000 | Authorized Meter Vendor / LESCO |
Laboratory Meter Testing Fee | Rs 5,000 | LESCO Testing Laboratory |
NEPRA Generation License Fee | Included in Application Fee | NEPRA / LESCO |
Figures as of July 2026.
Applicants pay official fees through designated bank demand drafts payable to LESCO. Avoid making cash payments to unauthorized field staff.
What technical standards and inspection criteria does LESCO enforce?
Before issuing a Net Billing NOC, LESCO technical staff conduct an on-site physical inspection. The inspection verifies system safety, equipment standards, and grid anti-islanding protection.
LESCO Inspection Technical Checklist.
- Inverter Anti-Islanding Trip - Inverter must shut down within 2 seconds when LESCO grid power is disconnected.
- Neutral Earthing and Protection - Dedicated earthing pit with measured resistance below 5 ohms.
- AC/DC Protection Box - Installed surge protection devices (SPD) and circuit breakers properly rated for DC voltage.
- External Manual Disconnect Switch - Weatherproof AC breaker installed near the utility meter, accessible to LESCO staff.
- Panel Quality Audit - Solar modules must carry clear internal glass serial numbers matching import paperwork.
How can you escalate delays in LESCO net metering processing?
If your LESCO net billing application exceeds the standard 45-day processing timeframe without valid technical justification, you can escalate the matter through official resolution channels.
Escalation Steps for Delayed Applications.
- Contact the LESCO Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) or Executive Engineer (XEN) at your division office.
- Submit a formal written complaint to the LESCO Customer Care Cell or call helpline 118.
- Lodge an online complaint through the Prime Minister Performance Delivery Unit (PMDU) portal.
- File an administrative appeal with the NEPRA Consumer Affairs Division attaching your application receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application fee for LESCO net metering?
LESCO charges a standard net metering application processing fee of Rs 1,000 (July 2026) per kW of sanctioned capacity.
How long does LESCO net metering approval take in Lahore?
The complete LESCO net metering process takes between 30 and 45 working days from initial application submission to green meter installation.
Which documents are required for LESCO net metering application?
Required documents include applicant CNIC copy, paid LESCO bill copy, single-line diagram, AEDB installer license certificate, and inverter test report.
References
Frequently asked questions
What is the application fee for LESCO net metering?
LESCO charges a standard net metering application processing fee of Rs 1,000 (July 2026) per kW of sanctioned capacity.
How long does LESCO net metering approval take in Lahore?
The complete LESCO net metering process takes between 30 and 45 working days from initial application submission to green meter installation.
Which documents are required for LESCO net metering application?
Required documents include applicant CNIC copy, paid LESCO bill copy, single-line diagram, AEDB installer license certificate, and inverter test report.
References
- LESCO — accessed 25 July 2026
- NEPRA — accessed 25 July 2026
- Solar Citizen — accessed 25 July 2026
- W11Stop — accessed 25 July 2026
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