Have you ever wondered how you can reduce your K-Electric bill and even earn money from your solar system? The answer is net metering.
Families and businesses in Karachi are already saving big with the help of net metering!
It doesn’t matter if you are applying as a homeowner or business owner in Karachi, because this complete net metering guide explains everything step by step.
This 2025 guide will cover: what net metering is, why it helps, what documents you need, and how to apply.
What Is Net Metering?
Before starting the process, let’s understand how net metering works.
Think of your solar panels as a small power station on your rooftop.
During the day, your system often makes more electricity than you use.
Instead of wasting it, net metering sends this extra power to KE’s grid.
Here’s what happens:
- Daytime: Extra solar units go to KE.
- Nighttime/cloudy hours: You use electricity from KE.
- Meter records both: Import (what you take) and export (what you send).
At the end of the month, KE adjusts your bill. If you export more than you consume, you earn credits. If you consume more than you export, you only pay the difference.
👉 In short, net metering ensures no unit is wasted and every extra unit turns into rupees saved or earned.
Benefits of Net Metering in Karachi
Net metering brings more than just lower bills. It has multiple advantages:
- Lower bills: Cut down KE usage and save thousands monthly.
- Extra income: Earn credits for selling your unused electricity.
- Faster ROI(Return on Investment): Your solar system pays back its cost more quickly.
- Business advantage: Shops, factories, and offices can lower expenses.
- Eco-friendly: You help reduce Karachi’s dependence on fuel-based electricity.
These benefits explain why both homeowners and business owners are opting for net metering!
Who Can Apply for Net-Metering?
Almost every type of consumer in Karachi can apply for net metering.
However, there are a few important conditions to know.
- Type of consumer: You can apply if you are installing solar for residential, commercial, industrial, or even agricultural use. This means most people qualify.
- System size: Your solar system must be at least 1 kW and not more than 1 MW in capacity.
- Electricity connection: You must have a valid and active electricity connection from KE. Without this, you cannot apply.
- Three-phase connection: Net metering requires a three-phase 400V KE connection. If you don’t already have one, you will first need to apply for a three-phase upgrade before applying for net metering.
- Property ownership: You should either own the property or have a long-term lease agreement for the premises where the solar system is installed.
- Technical standards: Your system must follow the technical rules set by NEPRA. For example, Inverters must meet global safety standards, and solar panels should match international quality certifications (like IEC standards). The overall system should be safe and properly connected to the KE grid.
- Permissions and approvals: All required approvals from KE and NEPRA are needed. Don’t worry, as your licensed solar installer will handle this part for you.
- Certified installer: Your system must be installed by a KE-approved and accredited installer.
- Net Metering Agreement: Finally, you will sign a net metering contract with KE, which outlines the terms and conditions of the program.
👉 In short, if you have (or can get) a three-phase KE connection, own or lease your premises, and install your system through a licensed installer, you are fully eligible for net metering in Karachi.
Required Documents
Getting your documents right is the key to avoiding delays.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| For Homeowners | For Business Owners |
|---|---|
| CNIC copy (front & back) | CNIC copy (owner/director) |
| Proof of ownership (property tax bill or registry) | Business registration certificate (NTN/SECP) |
| Latest KE electricity bill | Latest KE bill of the premises |
| Solar system design & interconnection diagram | Solar system design & interconnection diagram |
| Equipment specification sheets | Equipment specification sheets |
| Licensed installer details | Licensed installer details |
| _ | NOC from Electrical Inspector (if required) |
| _ | Load flow study (if system >250 kW) |
Completing all your documents thoroughly will save you time.
Don’t underestimate the difference it can make!
Step-by-Step Application Process
Now let’s carefully walk through the application journey.
Although many people feel anxious because it sounds technical, once you break it down, the process becomes quite manageable.
Step 1: Hire a Licensed Installer
The first step is to connect with a KE-approved solar installer.
Only certified vendors are permitted to submit applications. So it is important to make the right choice.
A good installer will also prepare your system design, single-line diagrams, and equipment details, and as a result will save you from paperwork stress.
Step 2: Submit Application Online
Your installer will upload all documents to the official KE Net Metering Portal. Once submitted, the system generates a Provisional ID.
This ID is important because it lets you track your case at every stage.
Step 3: KE Review Stage
KE reviews your documents. Your application can fall into three categories:
- Under Review – everything is going smoothly.
- On Hold – some papers are missing; you need to resubmit.
- Rejected – if the issues are not fixed in time.
At this stage, it’s crucial to respond quickly if KE asks for clarification.
Delays typically take place when applicants or installers fail to submit the required documents on time.
Step 4: Site Inspection by KE
After your documents pass the review, KE schedules a technical site inspection.
Their engineers visit your home or business to check:
- If your solar system is installed safely.
- Do the inverter, wiring, and panels meet NEPRA standards?
- Is your meter location suitable for a bi-directional upgrade?
This inspection is important because it confirms that your system will not disturb the KE grid.
Step 5: Bi-Directional Meter Installation
Once the inspection is cleared, KE replaces your old meter with a bi-directional meter.
This is the brain of the whole process. It separately records:
- Units imported from KE.
- Units exported to KE.
Without this meter, net metering cannot function.
Step 6: NEPRA Generation License
After KE installs the meter, the case is sent to NEPRA (National Electric Power Regulatory Authority). NEPRA issues a Generation License that officially allows you to sell electricity.
For small residential systems, this step is simple.
However, for large commercial systems (above 250 kW), additional load flow studies and approvals may be required.
Step 7: System Activation
Finally, KE activates your net metering account.
From this point onwards, every extra unit your panels produce will reduce your bill or give you credits.
You can actually see the difference in your very next KE bill.
How Long Does It Take?
Timelines depend on approvals, but generally:
- Application: 5–15 days
- Site inspection: 2–4 weeks
- Meter installation + NEPRA license: 2–3 months total
In short, the process has a few steps, but with the right installer, it becomes easy.
Most delays only happen when documents are incomplete.
So within 2–3 months, you can start exporting electricity.
Net Metering Rate in Karachi (2025)
One of the main reasons people go through this process is the return they get.
In 2025, KE buys surplus electricity at Rs. 20–22 per unit (kWh), as approved by NEPRA.
These rates can change each year, but they are always updated on NEPRA’s schedule.
Example Calculation: How Much Can You Earn?
For a homeowner with a 5 kW system, this could mean thousands of rupees in monthly savings.
Let’s look at a simple case of a 5 kW solar system in Karachi.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Average monthly production | 700–750 units |
| Your monthly consumption | 500 units |
| Extra units left | 200–250 units |
| Selling 200 units back to KE (Rs. 20 per unit) | Rs. 4,000 per month |
| Yearly savings/earnings | Rs. 48,000 |
👉 For larger businesses with 50 kW or 100 kW systems, the savings can go into lakhs of rupees annually.
That’s why many businesses in Karachi are shifting towards net metering as it simply makes financial sense.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before applying, remember:
- Always use a KE-approved installer.
- Double-check property ownership documents.
- Off-grid systems are not eligible.
- For big systems (250 kW+), don’t skip extra studies and NOCs.
Avoiding these mistakes can save you weeks of waiting.
Final Thoughts💁
Net metering is the smartest way to make the most of your solar system in Karachi.
It lowers your KE bill, gives you credits for extra power, and helps the environment.
With KE’s online system, the process is now easier than before. The only things you need are a licensed installer and complete documents.
👉 Need help applying for net metering? Solar Karwan can guide you from start to finish.
📲 Message us on WhatsApp today and let’s get your application started.
You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more updates and great offers!
FAQs
1) How long does the net metering process take in Karachi?
The process usually takes 2–3 months. It includes document submission, KE review, site inspection, bi-directional meter installation, and NEPRA approval.
To understand why solar is still worth it even with this wait, read our post on 5 Signs You’re Ready to Install a Solar System at Home in Karachi
2) Do I need a three-phase connection for net metering?
Yes. A three-phase KE connection is required. If you don’t already have one, you must first apply for it with KE before starting your net metering application.
4) Who handles the paperwork and approvals?
Most documentation and approvals are managed by your licensed solar installer, who prepares your system diagrams, equipment certificates, and submits your case to KE.
👉 At Solar Karwan, we make this process even easier. We connect you with trusted, KE-approved installers and guide you through it all! If you’re interested in net metering, WhatsApp us, and we’ll handle the details for you.
5) Can businesses in Karachi also apply for net metering?
Yes. Net metering is open for residential, commercial, industrial, and even agricultural consumers.
Businesses benefit the most because their daytime usage often matches solar production. Many shop owners and factories are now adopting solar with net metering.
6) Is net metering available only in Karachi?
No. Net metering is available across Pakistan under NEPRA regulations. But this article focuses on Karachi consumers because KE has its own application process.
If you’re a Karachi resident, Solar Karwan has more location-specific guides to help you every step of the way!
