24/04/2026
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has indeed introduced a one-time concurrence fee of Rs 1,000 per kilowatt (kW) for solar installations. This change, effective as of April 2026, is part of a broader regulatory shift from the traditional "net metering" system to a "net billing" framework.
Key Details of the New Fee
Mandatory Licensing: Previously, solar systems up to 25kW were exempt from licensing fees and only required permission from local distribution companies (DISCOs). Now, all system sizes must obtain formal concurrence from NEPRA.
Cost Calculation:
The fee is strictly based on the installed capacity. For example, a 10kW system will now require a processing fee of Rs 10,000.
Payment Method: Applicants must submit the fee via a pay order made out to NEPRA at the time of application.
One-Time Charge:
This is a non-refundable, one-time processing fee for the generation license/concurrence, not a recurring monthly tax.
Key Details of the New Fee
Mandatory Licensing: Previously, solar systems up to 25kW were exempt from licensing fees and only required permission from local distribution companies (DISCOs). Now, all system sizes must obtain formal concurrence from NEPRA.
Cost Calculation:
The fee is strictly based on the installed capacity. For example, a 10kW system will now require a processing fee of Rs 10,000.
Payment Method: Applicants must submit the fee via a pay order made out to NEPRA at the time of application.
One-Time Charge:
This is a non-refundable, one-time processing fee for the generation license/concurrence, not a recurring monthly tax.
Context of the Policy Shift
This fee was introduced alongside the Prosumer Regulations 2026, which aim to standardize the solar sector and manage its impact on the national grid. Other major changes include:
Net Billing Transition:
Surplus electricity is no longer credited on a 1:1 unit basis. Instead, it is sold back to the grid at a wholesale rate (approximately Rs 11–13 per unit), while imported grid electricity costs significantly more (Rs 40–50+ per unit).
Existing Users:
Consumers with active net metering agreements signed before February 9, 2026, generally retain their existing 1:1 benefits until their current contracts expire (typically 7 years).
Exemptions:
Hybrid solar systems that do not export electricity to the grid (off-grid or zero-export) remain exempt from these licensing requirements and fees.
