MEPCO 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 MEPCO net metering application procedure operate in South Punjab?

Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO) is the largest electricity distribution company in Pakistan by geographic area, serving Multan, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Vehari, Khanewal, Pakpattan, Lodhran, and Muzaffargarh districts. The MEPCO net metering application procedure enables agricultural, commercial, and residential consumers to register solar installations under NEPRA 2026 net billing regulations.

Given the high solar irradiance in South Punjab, solar adoption across agricultural tube wells and residential properties has expanded rapidly. Applying for a MEPCO net billing connection involves submitting documentation to the local MEPCO Executive Engineer (XEN) or Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO), undergoing transformer capacity verification, passing physical technical inspection, and installing an approved bidirectional green meter.

What documents are required for a MEPCO net billing application?

Submitting complete documentation ensures your application passes initial administrative screening at the MEPCO Sub-Divisional Office without delay.

MEPCO Application Document Checklist.

1. NEPRA Schedule-I application form filled and signed by the property title holder.
2. Copy of applicant Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
3. Paid copy of recent MEPCO electricity bill verifying active consumer status and sanctioned load.
4. System single-line diagram (SLD) prepared and stamped by a registered Professional Engineer.
5. AEDB Category C-1 or higher installer certification certificate.
6. Technical datasheets and factory inspection certificates for the inverter and PV modules.
7. Earth pit test report signed by a licensed electrical engineer.

What are the official fees and green meter costs for MEPCO consumers?

MEPCO enforces standardized fee schedules established by NEPRA guidelines. The primary application processing fee is Rs 1,000 (July 2026) per kW of sanctioned load.

Figures as of July 2026.

Applicants receive an official Pay Order demand notice from MEPCO. Payments must be deposited directly into designated utility bank accounts.

What technical standards and SDO inspection checks apply in MEPCO territory?

MEPCO technical teams inspect solar installations to ensure grid compatibility and safety during extreme summer heat in South Punjab.

MEPCO Field Inspection Standards.

• Anti-Islanding Shutdown - Automatic grid disconnection within 2 seconds of utility power failure.
• Earthing Pit Verification - Copper earthing pit with measured ground resistance strictly below 5 ohms.
• Surge Protection Devices - Type II AC and DC surge protection installed inside weather-sealed distribution boxes.
• Manual Disconnect Breaker - Lockable AC isolator switch mounted near the MEPCO utility meter.
• Inverter Heat Management - Inverters must be installed in shaded, ventilated spaces to handle ambient temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius.

How can MEPCO prosumers audit monthly net billing bills?

Under 2026 net billing rules, MEPCO prosumers receive monthly bills detailing imported electricity and exported solar energy. Imports are charged according to standard tariff slabs ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 65 (July 2026) per kWh for unprotected categories.

Exports are credited at the fixed buyback tariff of Rs 11 (July 2026) per kWh.

To audit your MEPCO statement.

1. Check your green meter display for Code 01 (Import kWh) and Code 02 (Export kWh) on the bill reading date.
2. Multiply Export kWh by Rs 11 (July 2026).
3. Subtract total Export Credit from total Import Bill to verify the final net payable amount.
4. Report discrepancies immediately to the MEPCO Revenue Officer or call helpline 118.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the processing fee for MEPCO net metering?

MEPCO charges an official application processing fee of Rs 1,000 (July 2026) per kW of sanctioned capacity.

Which regions does MEPCO cover for net billing applications?

MEPCO covers Multan, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Vehari, Khanewal, and Muzaffargarh districts.

How long does MEPCO take to install a net billing green meter?

The MEPCO net billing process typically takes between 35 and 50 working days from initial filing to final meter commissioning.

References

• MEPCO Official Portal
• NEPRA Official Portal
• Solar Citizen Pakistan
• W11Stop Pakistan