Govt Moves To End Unit-to-Unit Adjustment for Solar Users 2026. The government is moving closer to ending the unit-to-unit adjustment facility for solar consumers in Pakistan. A new net billing system may soon replace net metering, changing how solar electricity exports are paid. This guide explains what is changing, why it matters, and how solar users may be affected in 2026.
What Is Unit-to-Unit Adjustment in Solar Net Metering?
Understanding the Current System
Under the current net metering policy, solar consumers send extra electricity to the national grid.
Each exported unit is adjusted against consumed units at the same rate.
Simple example:
If your home produces 100 units and uses 80 units, you only pay for 0 extra units.
The remaining units roll over to the next bill.
This system made rooftop solar highly attractive for homes and businesses.
Why the Government Wants to Change Net Metering
Rising Pressure on the Energy Sector
The government believes the current system increases pressure on the national grid.
It also shifts costs to non-solar consumers.
Officials say reforms are needed to:
- Reduce circular debt
- Balance electricity tariffs
- Make billing more sustainable
These changes are part of wider power sector reforms led by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority.
NEPRA Public Hearing and Policy Timeline
NEPRA issued draft amendments to the net metering policy in December.
Stakeholders were given 30 days to submit objections.
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Draft amendments issued | December |
| Objection deadline | 30 days |
| Public hearing | February 6 |
| Final decision | After hearing |
All objections from consumers, solar companies, and industry groups will be reviewed before approval.
What Is the New Net Billing Framework?
Major Proposed Changes
The new system shifts from net metering to net billing.
Under net billing:
- Exported electricity gets a fixed rate
- Consumed electricity is billed at the national tariff
- No unit-to-unit adjustment
Proposed Export Rate
The government plans to set exported solar electricity at Rs. 11 per unit.
This is much lower than current consumer electricity tariffs.
Net Metering vs Net Billing Comparison
| Feature | Net Metering (Current) | Net Billing (Proposed) |
|---|---|---|
| Unit adjustment | Yes | No |
| Export rate | Same as import | Fixed (Rs. 11) |
| Billing method | Single bill | Separate bills |
| Savings | Higher | Lower |
| Payback period | Short | Longer |
This change significantly alters solar investment calculations.
How Solar Consumers Will Be Billed
If approved, consumers will receive:
- One bill for electricity consumed from the grid
- A separate credit for exported solar units
Credits may not fully offset high consumption charges anymore.
This is a major shift for residential and commercial solar users.
Impact on Rooftop Solar Investment
Financial Viability Concerns
Solar users and installers argue the changes may:
- Increase payback time
- Reduce monthly savings
- Slow new solar installations
Small households may feel the biggest impact.
Commercial Installations
Businesses with daytime usage may still benefit.
Homes with low daytime usage may see reduced returns.
Why Stakeholders Are Concerned
Industry experts warn that:
- Investor confidence could drop
- Solar adoption may slow
- Climate goals may be affected
Pakistan has seen rapid rooftop solar growth in recent years.
Policy uncertainty could reverse that trend.
Government’s Perspective on Sustainability
The government argues the reform will:
- Stabilize electricity prices
- Protect non-solar consumers
- Improve grid management
Officials say solar growth must align with system capacity.
What Happens After the Public Hearing?
After February 6:
- NEPRA will review all objections
- Final amendments may be notified
- Implementation timelines will be announced
Existing solar consumers may receive transition rules.
What Solar Users Should Do Now
Practical Steps
- Review your current solar output
- Increase daytime electricity use
- Monitor official NEPRA updates
- Consult your solar installer
Being informed helps reduce future surprises.
FAQs
Will net metering be banned in Pakistan?
No, it may be replaced by net billing, not fully banned.
What is the new solar export rate?
The proposed rate is Rs. 11 per unit.
Will existing solar users be affected?
Yes, but transitional rules may apply.
Is rooftop solar still worth it in 2026?
It depends on usage patterns and system size.
When will the new policy be implemented?
After NEPRA’s final approval and notification.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s move toward ending unit-to-unit adjustment marks a turning point for solar consumers. While the government aims to stabilize the power sector, users must adapt to new billing realities. Stay informed, plan smartly, and follow official updates to protect your solar investment.
