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Thousands of solar consumers using green meters in Islamabad have been taken aback after receiving electricity bills stating they must switch to AMR meters within three months to keep net metering active.
A large number of households with on-grid solar systems and green meters are now being informed that they must purchase Automatic Meter Reading meters for Rs52,000. The new meters would replace devices they previously bought, even though many users spent up to Rs1 million installing their solar setups.
Frustrated consumers have turned to the Prime Minister’s Portal, requesting the government to stop the Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) from requiring them to buy new meters. Many argue that their existing equipment works properly and is still under warranty, questioning why they should bear additional costs.
While confirming the development, an IESCO official said the decision to replace the meters had been approved earlier, but the implementation has been temporarily paused. The official added that a comprehensive policy explaining the process and financial terms will be announced soon.
Green meters are bi-directional devices that record both electricity imported from the grid and surplus power exported back through net metering. Every three months, these readings determine whether consumers receive credits or must pay remaining charges.
Consumers Seek Clarity on New AMR Meter Expense
A solar owner said he was alarmed when his bill mentioned mandatory meter replacement. After visiting the IESCO office, he was told that a Rs52,000 demand notice would be issued for the AMR meter. He questioned why consumers who recently invested significant money in their systems should pay again for a new device.
Another consumer reported that he was informed at the IESCO office that the AMR meter would simplify monitoring and eliminate the need for manual meter readings, making the process easier for utility staff.
Officials acknowledged that a growing number of solar users were visiting after seeing the message on their bills. They said demand notices would eventually be issued, but final decisions depend on the upcoming policy. Some IESCO employees noted that the process was halted after several consumers argued that their green meters were still under warranty.
The spokesperson for IESCO stated that the decision to replace traditional green meters with Automated Meter Reading (AMR) meters is part of a nationwide initiative, rather than a directive specific to the company. He also mentioned that authorities are working on a policy aimed at addressing consumer concerns and ensuring relief measures where necessary. However, IESCO clarified that this policy has not yet been finalised.
