Net Metering: Reality or Scam? A Complete Guide (2025)
Is net metering really beneficial, or is it just another trap set by the government and power companies? In this detailed guide, we will explain the advantages, disadvantages, battery-less solar inverters, and real-life examples to help you make the best decision.
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1️⃣ What is Net Metering?
Net metering is a system where the excess electricity generated by your solar panels is sent to the grid, reducing your electricity bill.
This system is considered ideal for users who generate more electricity during the day and want to use grid power at night.
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2️⃣ How Does Net Metering Work?
🔹 The solar system generates electricity.
🔹 Excess electricity is sent to WAPDA/DISCOs.
🔹 The exported electricity units are adjusted in your bill.
🔹 The government buys electricity at a lower price and sells it at a higher rate.
Example:
If your solar system exports 20 units daily and you import 10 units, your bill could be zero. However, if the government buys exported units at a lower price, you could face financial loss.
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3️⃣ Pros and Cons of Net Metering.
✅ Advantages
✔ Reduces electricity bills
✔ Earn money by selling excess electricity
✔ Environmentally friendly and promotes green energy
✔ Provides grid backup
❌ Disadvantages
✖ The government buys electricity at a lower price and sells it at a higher rate.
✖ Net metering policies may change over time.
✖ You still depend on the grid or batteries for nighttime electricity.
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4️⃣ Real Example: Net Metering Loss?
Ali installed a 10kW solar system and exported 30 units daily. He expected his bill to be zero, but in reality, WAPDA purchased his electricity at a lower price and sold it at a higher rate.
Result:
Ali had to buy back the same electricity at a higher price.
Net metering did not provide the expected benefit due to lower government tariffs.
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5️⃣ Net Metering & Battery-less Inverters.
Many people prefer battery-less inverters with net metering because batteries are expensive and require maintenance.
🔋 What Are Battery-less Solar Inverters?
These inverters directly supply electricity to your home from solar panels and send the excess power to the grid via net metering.
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6️⃣ Popular Battery-less Inverters.
✅ Growatt On-Grid Inverter – Budget-friendly.
✅ SMA On-Grid Inverter – European standard.
1 High European Efficiency –
2🔹 Smart Grid Integration –
3🔹 No Battery Required –
4🔹 Reliable Performance –
✅ Huawei On-Grid Inverter – Smart monitoring.
1 AI-Powered Smart Monitoring.
2 High Efficiency.
3 No Battery Required.
4 Reliable Performance.
✅ Solis On-Grid Inverter – High efficiency.
1 High Efficiency.
2 Smart Grid Compatibility.
3 No Battery Required.
4 Reliable Performance.
These inverters only operate on solar power during the day, while at night, you have to rely on the grid.
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7️⃣ Net Metering Calculation: How Much Will You Really Save?
If you have a 5kW solar system generating 25 units daily, your net metering calculations will be:
Total electricity generated: 750 units/month
Exported to grid: 500 units
Government buys at ₹10/unit but sells at ₹30/unit
Result: You actually lose ₹20 per unit
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8️⃣ Government Policies & Net Metering.
Pakistan’s net metering policies change frequently. Currently, the government is considering reducing net metering tariffs, which means users will receive less compensation for exported electricity.
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9️⃣ Net Metering vs. Battery System: Which Is Better?
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🔟 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 Is net metering free?
No, it requires meter approval, permits, and system costs.
🔹 Can solar work without net metering?
Yes, but you will need batteries or direct usage.
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🎯 Conclusion.
Net metering can be beneficial, but make an informed decision. If the government offers low unit rates and uncertain policies, a battery system may be a better option.
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🚀 Call To Action (CTA)
🔹 Net metering or battery-less solar— which is better for you? Comment below!
🔹 Subscribe to our website for the latest net metering policy updates!
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