Discover how installing solar panels with net metering can reduce your FESCO electricity bills by 40-90%. Updated with 2024 rates and policies.
How Net Metering Works with FESCO
Typical Monthly Savings
| System Size | Average Monthly Savings | Payback Period |
|---|---|---|
| 3kW | Rs. 4,500 - Rs. 6,000 | 3-4 years |
| 5kW | Rs. 7,500 - Rs. 10,000 | 4-5 years |
| 10kW | Rs. 15,000 - Rs. 20,000 | 5-6 years |
- Bi-directional Meter Installation - FESCO replaces your old meter with a net meter that tracks both imported and exported electricity
- Solar Production - Your panels generate power during daylight (priority usage in your home)
- Excess Energy Export - Unused solar power flows back to grid, earning credits
- Nighttime Usage - You draw power from grid, using accumulated credits
- Monthly Net Billing - Pay only for (Units Imported - Units Exported)
Pro Tip: Size your system to cover 80% of your usage for optimal savings (100% coverage requires expensive batteries).
Understanding Your Net Meter Bill
New Sections on FESCO Bill:
| Term | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Import (kWh) | Grid power you used | 200 units |
| Export (kWh) | Solar power you sent to grid | 150 units |
| Net Consumption | Import - Export | 50 units |
| Credit Carryover | Unused exported units | 20 units (if any) |
Note: FESCO buys excess solar at Rs. 19.32/unit (2024 rate) if your annual export > import.
12+ Solar Net Metering FAQs
Q1: How long does FESCO take to install net meter?
A: Typically 4-6 weeks after:
- Solar system inspection
- Document verification
- Security deposit payment (refundable)
Q2: What's the cost to switch to net metering?
A: FESCO charges:
- Rs. 2,000 application fee
- Rs. 10,000 meter deposit (refundable)
- Rs. 500 monthly meter rent
Q3: Can I completely zero my FESCO bill?
A: Possible but not practical because:
- You still pay fixed charges (Rs. 200-500/month)
- Cloudy days require grid power
- FESCO limits system size to 80% of your annual usage
Q4: What happens to excess solar energy?
A: Two scenarios:
- Monthly: Credits roll over to next month
- Annual: FESCO pays Rs. 19.32/unit for net excess (March settlement)
Q5: How does net metering affect tariff slabs?
A: Your net consumption determines slabs:
- If net is 250 units, only 50 fall in 201-300 slab
- Helps stay in lower tariff brackets
Q6: Can I use net metering for 3-phase connection?
A: Yes! FESCO provides:
- 3-phase net meters
- Same application process
- Higher security deposit (Rs. 15,000)
FESCO's Net Metering Application Process
- System Installation - Hire FESCO-approved solar company
- Documents Submission:
- CNIC copy
- Recent FESCO bill
- Solar equipment certificates
- Inspection - FESCO engineer verifies system safety
- Meter Installation - Bi-directional meter setup (2-3 hours)
- Activation - Starts from next billing cycle
