Updated 13 July 2026
SEPCO Net Metering in 2026: What Changed
In early 2026 NEPRA replaced the old net metering regime with new Prosumer Regulations — new solar users now sell surplus at a far lower rate under 'net billing'. Existing agreement holders keep their old terms. Here's what the rules mean for a SEPCO consumer deciding on solar now.
Old system vs new system
| Net metering (old) | Net billing (2026 rules) | |
|---|---|---|
| Exported units | Offset imported units ~1:1 | Bought at a fixed buyback rate |
| Buyback rate | ~Rs 25.32/unit (national average power purchase price) | ~Rs 8–13/unit for new consumers (finalized around Rs 8.13 in NEPRA's decision, subject to tariff updates) |
| Agreement term | 7 years | 5 years |
| Who it applies to | Agreements signed before the new regulations (protected until expiry per NEPRA's Feb 2026 draft amendment) | New applicants |
Are existing solar users affected?
After significant public pushback and the Prime Minister's intervention, NEPRA issued a draft amendment (16 February 2026) confirming that consumers holding valid net metering agreements as of 9 February 2026 keep their existing rates until their agreement expires. If you already have net metering on a SEPCO connection, your terms continue; watch renewal dates.
Does solar still make sense on SEPCO?
Yes — but the economics now favour self-consumption over exporting:
- Every unit you consume directly from your panels still saves the full retail rate — Rs 40+ all-in for non-protected consumers (rates). That value didn't change.
- Exported surplus now earns ~Rs 8–13 instead of ~Rs 25 — so oversizing a system to "sell to SEPCO" no longer pays.
- Right-size the system to your daytime load, and consider batteries to shift solar into the expensive evening peak.
How to apply on a SEPCO connection
- Use an AEDB-registered installer — they prepare the interconnection application.
- Apply through SEPCO with your connection's reference number; the file covers inverter specs, protection, and a site inspection.
- After approval and agreement signing, a bidirectional meter is installed and export credits appear on your bill.
Frequently asked questions
I applied before the new regulations but wasn't approved yet — which rules apply?
The cutoff in NEPRA's amendment is holding a valid agreement as of 9 February 2026. In-process applications generally fall under the new net billing framework — confirm your file's status with SEPCO and your installer.
Do protected consumers lose protection by installing solar?
Protection status is based on your billed (net) consumption. Solar that keeps your grid consumption at/under 200 units can actually help you stay protected — one more argument for self-consumption sizing.
What system size does a typical home need?
Rule of thumb: ~4 units/day generated per kW installed in upper Sindh's sun. A home using 300 units monthly needs roughly 3 kW to cover daytime usage; batteries change the calculus.