When you have a solar system installed, you don’t realize that a lot of energy produced is not even utilized and is sent back to the grid. But what if we tell you that you can take advantage of the extra electricity produced by your solar panels? Utility companies compensate for the extra units that are sent back to the grid. But to be able to receive that, you will need to apply for net metering in Pakistan.
The process of applying for net metering is quite simple; keep reading this article to find easy steps to apply and find out the eligibility criteria for this process.
What is Net Metering?
Net metering is an arrangement for solar users to transfer extra electricity generated back to the grid. In return for that, they receive credits. At the end of the month, the utility company calculates the difference between the electricity consumed and generated. They only bill for the amount of electricity used and will give you credits for the extra electricity that your solar system sends to the grid.
Source: Premier EnergyThe process of recording excess energy production of a solar system and crediting it to the customer’s bill for the energy that it took from the grid is known as net metering. A lot of people in Pakistan now use solar panels without realizing that a lot of energy that is produced from their system is wasted. So, net metering is a great option for them to take advantage of that excess energy.
Who can apply for Net Metering in Pakistan?
If you want to apply for net metering in Pakistan, there is a set of eligibility criteria that you must fit into. First is a technical requirement: you must have a three-phase electricity connection. The fulfillment of this requirement is necessary to ensure compatibility with grid infrastructure. Another important requirement is that your solar system should be of small to medium size, with a capacity between 1 kW and 1 MW. It can be a residential system or a small commercial solar system.
Besides these technical requirements, some other basic requirements need to be fulfilled too. The panels should be your own, not owned by someone else; the property on which panels are installed should be personal too; and ensure that the electrical connections are also correct.
Source: Energy Saving ProsHow do I apply for net metering in Pakistan?
If you have decided to opt for net metering, here is a step-by-step guide on how you can apply for net metering in Pakistan. However, make sure that before you apply for net metering you must have solar panels installed in your property.
- Prepare documents
The first and crucial step of this whole process is to arrange your documents, which include your identity card, utility bill, proof of property ownership, and a form issued by the electricity distribution company. Ensure you have all these documents available so your process can go smoothly.
- Get in touch with an AEDB-registered company
It is important to contact a solar company or installer that is registered with AEDB because NEPRA does not allow individuals to directly apply for net metering. The installer will assist you with the application process.
- Apply to WAPDA XEN
Once you have prepared your application, including all the documents, you will need to send your application to WAPDA XEN. You will be required to submit three copies of your application.
- Inspection
An electrical inspector will visit your property to check your solar system. He will conduct various tests to ensure the safety and compliance of your solar system. This may include checking the wiring, grounding, and overall installation quality. After the inspection, a final decision will be made about permitting you to install the green meter.
- Meter Installation
After you receive a permission letter, you can buy a green meter. The average green meter price in Pakistan is around 40,000 PKR. The appointed team will then visit and install the green meter on your property. A two-way meter will be installed to measure the electricity consumption of your home or office and how much electricity is being sent to the grid.
What are the benefits of applying for net metering?
When you go solar, you enjoy several benefits of this renewable, clean energy, and net meeting can just double these benefits. Net meeting allows you to save more on electricity bills than other solar system owners do without net metering. Opting for net metering is also a sustainable move, as giving extra energy back to the grid can help mitigate the energy shortage issue of the country to some extent.
If you are getting solar panels, do consider the net metering option, as you will not only be saving your electricity costs but also supporting environmental sustainability.
Final Verdict
In short, net metering is one of the best ways to not only quickly recover the money you spent on solar panels and save on electricity prices but also a way to help the country mitigate its energy crisis issues. Follow the steps mentioned in this article to apply for the net meeting in Pakistan so you don’t face any issues. Let’s all take one step towards a greener future in Pakistan.