Solar in GEPCO Region
The GEPCO region in northern Punjab receives 5–6 peak sun hours daily, making solar a strong investment. With rising tariffs and 2–8 hours of daily load shedding, consumers in Gujranwala, Sialkot, and surrounding districts can achieve energy independence through solar with net metering.
Eligibility
- Active GEPCO connection
- Solar system within sanctioned load
- AEDB/PEC licensed installer
- NEPRA-approved inverter
- 1-Phase max 5 kW, 3-Phase max 1 MW
- Meets GEPCO technical standards
Application Process
- Install solar through licensed installer
- Gather docs: CNIC, GEPCO bill, property papers, system specs
- Submit to GEPCO Generation Licensing
- GEPCO inspects installation
- Bidirectional meter installed
- Sign net metering agreement
- Start exporting surplus
Net Metering Billing
| Item | kWh | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grid Import | 350 | Drawn from GEPCO |
| Solar Export | 280 | Sent to grid |
| Net Billed | 70 | Only pay for this |
| Monthly Bill | ~Rs 542 | First slab rate |
| Without Solar | ~Rs 7,000 | Full 350 units |
| Savings | ~Rs 6,458 | 92% reduction |
System Sizing & Costs
| Usage | System | Cost | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200–300 kWh | 3 kW | Rs 280,000–420,000 | 3–4 years |
| 300–500 kWh | 5 kW | Rs 420,000–600,000 | 2.5–4 years |
| 500–800 kWh | 8 kW | Rs 650,000–950,000 | 3–4 years |
| 800+ kWh | 10 kW | Rs 850,000–1,200,000 | 3–4 years |
Benefits
- 70–100% monthly savings on electricity
- Protection against annual tariff increases
- 2.5–4 year payback period
- 25+ year system lifespan
- Property value increase
- Sales tax exemption on solar equipment
- Net metering credits for excess generation
Frequently Asked Questions
How to apply for GEPCO net metering?
Install approved solar, submit docs to GEPCO Generation Licensing, pass inspection, get bidirectional meter.
Cost of solar with net metering?
5 kW system: Rs 420,000–600,000 plus Rs 15,000–25,000 for meter.
How long for approval?
30–60 days from application.
Can commercial get net metering?
Yes, up to 1 MW for three-phase.
What about excess credits?
Roll over monthly. Year-end excess at NEPRA buy-back rate.
Is solar viable in Gujranwala?
Excellent — 5–6 peak sun hours daily.
Need to upgrade connection?
Only if solar exceeds sanctioned load.
Can I use batteries too?
Yes, hybrid systems with batteries are permitted.
Government incentives?
Sales tax exempt solar equipment. Some provincial financing programs.
Expected warranty?
Panels: 25 years. Inverter: 5–10 years.