Month: January 2024

probelms and how to get the green meter in pakistan
January 26, 2024

Problems to Face While Applying for the Green Meter in Pakistan

Post By Mehran Solar Guide No Comments

While the government is saying that they are in full support to promote net metering and solar systems still there are many difficulties for customers and solar companies who want to install green meters. Let’s discuss those problems and possible solutions in today’s article.

Problems in Net Metering Installation

  • The slow and complex process delayed the replacement of the existing meters with green ones.
  • Wapda’s slow processing takes 4 months to obtain a new connection.
  • Solar companies have a dedicated person or team that handles all the paperwork.

Lengthy Wapda Process

It’s very hard to apply for net metering after installing a solar system because all this work goes through WAPDA so it takes a lot of time. Because the old meter that is installed has to be removed and a green meter installed in its place, WAPDA approval is required for this. Unfortunately, a simple job that should be completed in 8 to 10 days, takes three to four months and if it is not properly managed then it could take more than four months.

You Scratch My Back and I Scratch Yours

To get a green meter installed, you have to deal with WAPDA, and to get the work done quickly, you have to give them some “Chai Paani”. If you don’t do that, this process can take a long time. Normally it takes three to four months, but if you comply with them, the green meter can be installed within 30 to 45 days.

Customer Payments and Solar Companies

The delay in the installation of green meters is also causing a lot of financial problems for solar companies, as customers who have installed solar panels have withheld some money from solar companies, which sometimes creates a lot of tension between the two parties. While the main responsibility lies with government officials who should get this work done smoothly and as quickly as possible.

Billing Nightmares

Delayed First Bills

After the installation of the green meter, a very big problem is the bill. Normally, the bill should come every month, but after the installation of the green meter, the same bill comes after three to four months, which creates a lot of problems.

Exclusion of Exported Units

After the installation of the green meter, when the first bill comes, it often does not include the exported units, and it becomes very difficult to get these units added. This means that if your bill is wrong once, you have to go through a lot of trouble to get it corrected. This difference along with fuel price adjustments and higher slabs creates an extra burden financially on the customer.

Meter Updates and Record Delays

Getting a green meter installed is a difficult task, and even after the installation of the green meter, citizens face many problems because it takes lots of time for the green meter to be updated in WAPDA’s records. Due to this, citizens receive their electricity bills very late and are also charged a fine.

Rectifying Billing Errors

Correcting Billing Mistakes

After the installation of the green meter, the first bill often does not include the exported unit count of the green meter. This makes it very difficult to get the bill corrected, and customers often have to make repeated trips to the electricity office. There, they are asked to “give some tea and water” to expedite the correction process.

What is the Solution to get the Green Meter in Pakistan?

There are only two ways to get a green meter installed. One is if you have a good connection in WAPDA, or the other is if you contact a solar company. Solar companies have a lot of connections, so they can get a green meter installed within a few months. However, they charge a lot of money for this service. If you can’t afford either of these options, then you just have to wait for your turn. When your turn comes, your meter will be installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there any other way to speed up the Net Metering process?

A: While the official process takes time, keeping in touch with government officials can sometimes help to get the paperwork done a little early.

Q: How to prevent billing discrepancies?

A: Stay in touch with the power supply companies regularly to ensure that they are taking the correct meter readings and billing calculations.

Q: What measures do solar firms take to avoid delays?

A: Solar companies can face less trouble in clearing the bureaucratic hurdles if they establish good channels with government departments and maintain a proactive approach.

latest solar panel prices in pakistan
January 24, 2024

Understanding Solar Panel Prices in Pakistan: A Comprehensive Guide (24 Jan 2024 Update

Post By Mehran Solar Guide No Comments

The solar panel market in Pakistan is seeing significant changes on January 24, 2024, tier 1 companies like Jinko, Myson, JA, and Longi are adjusting their rates and the A-grade solar panel prices have crossed the Rs. 44 per Watt mark. Karachi Port container clearance, continuous pre-booking trends, and the effect of a major strike also play their part in keeping the market movement agile. This blog post will give a detailed overview of the current prices, market trends, and upcoming projects in the solar panel industry of Pakistan. You can check out the latest solar panel prices here.

Key Takeaways

  • The price of A-grade, tier 1 solar panels in Pakistan is Rs. 44 per Watt today, as of January 24, 2024.
  • Myson, JA Kennedy, Zenshine, and Launch are offering the cheapest solar panels.
  • The pre-booking trends have an impact on the market, and this will give us insight into how it is impacting prices and market dynamics.
  • According to the update, Karachi Port will receive more containers on January 26. Major importers are expected to bring around 40 to 50 containers.
CompanyPanel SpecificationsRate (Rs. per Watt)
Myson540W A-grade Solar Panel44
JA565W Single Glass A-Grade Documented47
ZnShine545W Single Glass A-Grade Documented45
JA540W Double Glass BiFicial52.5
LongiLongi HiMo 6 570 & 575W Single Glass51.5
JinkoN-Type 575A-Grade Single Glass53.5
Canadian Topcon Solar575W Canadian Solar Panel53.5
Canadian650W Canadian Solar Panel53
Canadian550W Tier 1 Single Glass A-Grade Documented50
Canadian545W Single Glass A-Grade49.5
Canadian550W Single Glass A-Grade50
Trina550W Tier 1 Solar Panel51.5
Jinko550W,555W Single Glass A-Grade50
Trina550W Single Glass A-Grade50
Trina555W Single Glass A-Grade50
JA540W Single Glass A-Grade47
AKCOME730W Solar Panel60

Myson Solar Panel Rates

Myson 540W A-grade Solar Panel

  • Rate: Rs. 44 per watt

JA Solar Panel Rates

JA 565W Single Glass A-Grade Documented

  • Rate: Rs. 47 per watt

JA 540W Double Glass Bifacial

  • Rate: Rs. 52.5 per watt

Longi Solar Panel Rates

Longi 560W Single Glass A-Grade Documented

  • Rate: Rs. 51 per watt

Longi Hymo 6 570W and 575W Single Glass A-Grade Documented

  • Rate: Rs. 51.5 per watt

Jinko and Canadian Solar Panel Rates

Jinko N-Type 575A-Grade Single Glass

  • Rate: Rs. 53.5 per watt

Canadian Topcon Solar 575W

  • Rate: Rs. 53.5 per watt

Canadian Solar Panel 650W

  • Rate: Rs. 53 per watt

Canadian 550W Tier 1 Single Glass A-Grade Documented

  • Rate: Rs. 50 per watt

Canadian 545W Single Glass A-Grade

  • Rate: Rs. 49.5 per watt

Canadian 550W Single Glass A-Grade

  • Rate: Rs. 50 per watt

Other Solar Panel Rates

Trina 550W Tier 1 Solar Panel

  • Rate: Rs. 51.5 per watt

Trina 550W Single Glass A-Grade

  • Rate: Rs. 50 per watt

Trina 555W Single Glass A-Grade

  • Rate: Rs. 50 per watt

JA 540W Single Glass A-Grade

  • Rate: Rs. 47 per watt

Solar Market Trends

  • Impact of Boycott: The effect of the boycott is on prices, many companies slashed their rates as well.
  • Upcoming Containers: More containers will come on the 2nd and 5th of February, which will also play a vital role in market dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the impact of the boycott on solar prices?

  • A: Because of the boycott, prices are being impacted positively some companies have reduced their prices.

Q: What is the current situation of container clearance at Karachi Port?

  • A: As of the 24th of January, 320 containers have been cleared and more are expected on January 26.

Q: Are any changes in solar panel rates expected soon?

  • A: The market is dynamic, changes are supposed to come according to container arrivals and demand.
On-grid or Hybrid System - Which is Better in Pakistan
January 22, 2024

On-grid or Hybrid System – Which is Better in Pakistan?

Post By Mehran Solar Guide No Comments

On-Grid or Hybrid Systems (Main Points)

  • On-Grid System: A system without a battery, that depends on net metering and fails in case of load shedding.
  • Hybrid System: It combines the characteristics of on-grid and off-grid, so you can enjoy savings as well as luxury during the load-shedding period.
  • Recent Changes: Switch from an on-grid system to a hybrid one because of the increased load-shedding and changes in energy dynamics.
  • Recommendation: In the current situation, it is better to go with a hybrid system, due to its versatility although capital cost will be on the higher side.

Understanding On-Grid and Hybrid Systems in Pakistan

On-Grid System (Battery-less System)

In an on-grid system, solar energy is produced without batteries. Solar energy is injected into the house without storage, and extra energy is sent back to the grid via a green meter. This system is cost-effective and long-lasting but does not work during load shedding.

Hybrid System (Combining On-Grid and Off-Grid Features)

Just like the On-grid system, a hybrid system also uses net metering but a hybrid system has an edge of working in load shedding as well. This is possible by adding batteries to the system to still provide electricity even if the grid is off.

Evolving Trends in Pakistan’s Solar Energy Landscape

Past Trends

A few years back, people were using the on-grid system because of its lower price, longer life, and more efficiency. In the old days when load shedding was less frequent and people’s first choice was on-grid solar systems.

Shift in Dynamics (2022 Onwards)

In 2022, energy dynamics changed in Pakistan due to the increased load shedding because On-grid systems were unable to provide electricity during load shedding where they were supposed to perform so this shift forced many people to move with the hybrid system or add a hybrid inverters with their existing on-grid setup.

Load Shedding Challenges

In heavy load shedding, on-grid systems are unable to contribute to the grid resulting in the wastage of energy they generate. At this time, hybrid systems are a good choice because they can operate during load shedding.

Choosing the Right System for Pakistan’s Environment

Why Hybrid System is Recommended in the Current Scenario

Looking at the current energy situation and the possibility of ongoing load shedding, a hybrid system is our recommendation. A hybrid system ensures that during load shedding there should be no interruption in power supply. It can save you money along with luxury.

Optimizing Solar System Size for Cost-Efficiency and Backup

While determining the size of your solar energy system, make sure to keep a balance to ensure continuous power supply and cost-effectiveness in load shedding. For a powerful and cost-effective solution, follow these guidelines:

System Size Recommendations:

  1. 20 kW System:
    • Assign 5 kW for Hybrid and 15 kW for On-Grid.
    • Benefit: Reduces the cost and capital expenditures.
    • Advantage: Provides 5 kW backup during hybrid operation.
  2. 10 kW System:
    • Choose Hybrid System.
    • Reasoning: A hybrid system is a good option because it can work during load shedding, so you will get a continuous supply of electricity.
  3. 5 kW System:
    • Choose a Hybrid System.
    • Importance: Ensures that all limited loads in your house continue running during load shedding, both day and night.

Budget Considerations

It should be noted that the capital cost of a hybrid system is higher it will be around 1.5 times more than the on-grid system. But if there are no budget constraints, then the additional benefits make it a good investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the main benefit of a hybrid system as compared to an on-grid system?

A: The biggest benefit of the hybrid system is that it can work during load shedding to provide a continuous power supply.

Q2: Will I be able to save money with the on-grid system?

A: Yes, the on-grid system is budget-friendly and it will save money on the electricity bills but it doesn’t work during load shedding.

Q3: Is it beneficial to invest more money in a hybrid system?

A: A hybrid system has an initially high cost but as it provides energy during load shedding and ensures uninterrupted power supply it is worth the investment.

January 20, 2024

Grid-Tied Solar System or Hybrid Solar System – Which is Better?

Post By Mehran Uncategorized No Comments

In today’s blog post, we will discuss the difference between grid-tied solar inverters and hybrid solar inverters and why it is important for our community members. Why are grid-tied systems creating problems with load shedding? Benefits of on-grid system and when to use hybrid solutions. We will also help you to find out whether you should go for a grid-tied setup or not. Furthermore, we will talk about energy prioritization, make a quick price analysis, and give some specific recommendations related to the ongoing energy crisis in Pakistan as of 2024.

The drawback of Grid-Tied Solar System

In the past, on-grid systems were fine in areas like Bahria Town where load shedding occurred for only a few hours daily. But now, a sudden increase in power outage caught many people off guard. Since on-grid systems are connected to the Wapda grid and are mostly used to reduce electricity bills so when the grid goes down, the system shuts off, leaving you without power even if the sun is shining.

Bahria Town Load shedding

Grid-tight systems work best in places where load shedding is very low. For example, in Bahria Town, load shedding used to be occasional, but now it happens daily. In such places, grid-tied systems solar systems do not work properly. If load shedding occurs one or two hours a day in your area, then you can use a grid-tied system. Otherwise, you should install a hybrid system.

Benefits of On-Grid System

On-grid systems are known for their affordability, longer inverter life, and maintenance-free operations. These systems are perfect for areas with less load shedding as its a one-time investment with a clear return on investment which makes it a practical choice for many people.

Grid-Tied System Feasibility

The grid-tied system can be feasible if the load shedding is frequent in your area. Knowing the limitations of a grid-tied system and analyzing the local power scenario is important to make an informed decision when investing in a grid-tied solar system otherwise hybrid solar system is better.

How to Choose between Hybrid and On-Grid

The decision to opt for a hybrid or an on-grid system depends on the frequency of load shedding in your area. If there is minimal load shedding in your area then definitely go for an on-grid system, it requires almost no maintenance and gives the best return on investment.

But if you are facing too much load shedding especially 8 to 10 hours a day than in that case, go with the hybrid system because hybrids will provide continuous power backup during outages.

Here’s a simplified pros and cons table for clarity:

Pros and Cons of On-Grid Systems:

Pros

  • Cost-Effective: On-grid systems are generally more affordable to install.
  • Low Maintenance: These systems require almost no maintenance, contributing to cost savings.
  • Best Return on Investment: With less maintenance costs, on-grid systems offer an excellent return on investment.

Cons

  • Dependence on Grid: Power interruptions in the grid affect system performance, limiting reliability.
  • Limited Use During Load Shedding: On-grid systems shut down during load shedding, providing no power backup.

Pros and Cons of Hybrid Systems:

Pros

  • Uninterrupted Power: Hybrid systems continue to supply power during load shedding, ensuring uninterrupted electricity.
  • Adaptability: Suited for areas with frequent power cuts, making them versatile and reliable.
  • Energy Storage: Integrated battery storage allows for energy storage during peak sunlight hours for later use.

Cons

  • Higher Initial Cost: Hybrid systems tend to have a higher upfront cost due to additional components like batteries.
  • Moderate Maintenance: While more robust than on-grid systems, hybrids may require occasional maintenance.
CriteriaOn-Grid SystemHybrid System
Load SheddingMinimal or No ImpactUninterrupted Power
MaintenanceAlmost NoneModerate
Return on InvestmentExcellentGood
Reliability During Load SheddingLimitedHigh

Who should get a Hybrid System?

A hybrid system is a good choice for those who want power backup and don’t want any interruption during load shedding. The article explains the scenarios in which a hybrid system will be a smart investment for people and they can fulfill their energy needs.

Biggest Problem with Pakistani Grid:

The continuous shutdowns and voltage fluctuation in the Pakistani power grid from 180 to 380 volts are a big issue for solar systems. In such conditions, inverters can get damaged which can significantly reduce the efficiency and life span of solar systems. Sometimes the voltage level goes out of range which is very harmful to the sensitive equipment in the solar system.

In these situations, we need robust and adaptive solutions like hybrid systems with over and under-voltage controllers. These systems help us to manage grid conditions smartly and give more stable and reliable performance, which will be very essential for the successful integration and sustainability of solar initiatives in Pakistan.

Why do We think the Hybrid System is better for most Pakistanis?

In a country like Pakistan, where many areas are facing 12 to 14 hours of load shedding daily, we are confident that hybrid systems are the best solution. On-grid systems, which are generally installed to reduce electricity bills, lose their value during prolonged load shedding because of no light even if the sun is shining at its peak. These systems become useless when residents need them the most.

Hybrid solar systems switch from solar to battery and battery to solar off-grid connectivity enabling continuous power supply during an outage. The compatibility with the tough Pakistani grid makes hybrid systems a more feasible and reliable option for most of the consumer’s energy requirements.

Solar Panels Inside Story Behind Massive Price Cut
January 17, 2024

Solar Panels: Inside Story Behind Massive Price Cut

Post By Mehran Uncategorized No Comments

In Pakistan, the price of solar panels dropped abruptly from 70,000 to 30,000 creating a lot of noise, Let unfold this complex story. This abrupt price drop is due to global competition between China and the West in solar panel manufacturing. Europe’s effort to manufacture panels locally got hit as China captured the market with low-cost products.

Pakistan took advantage of this situation and got the solar plates at a cheaper price. However, there is also a concern about the quality of these panels because the technology is changing. Breakage has increased as frames are getting thinner and materials are changing, so industry side is now more emphasized on maintaining standards rather than further price deduction.

Key Takeaways:

  • The prices of solar panels in Pakistan have dropped significantly which is making it more accessible.
  • However, there are doubts about the quality and standards of the cheaper panels.
  • The decrease in prices is a consequence of the global competition between China and the West in solar panel manufacturing.

The Global Solar Panel Battle

Solar Panels Inside Story Behind Massive Price Cut
Solar Panels Inside Story Behind Massive Price Cut

China vs. The West

In the ongoing solar panel manufacturing war, China and the West are at daggers drawn. To reduce China’s dominance, America and Europe have made a plan to manufacture solar panels locally on a gigawatt scale. The plan was to sell these locally manufactured panels in the US and Europe, but it took an interesting turn.

The Conundrum in Europe

As the West started producing locally, they faced tough competition from China as they have already flooded the market with cheap solar panels. European business people were ready to make money from the solar revolution but China’s panel pricing was so competitive that it didn’t make sense for them to produce locally and eventually, Europe was left with more solar panel inventories.

The Pakistani Advantage

Unexpected Windfall

The extra stock of European solar panels and China’s desperate selling strategy proved to be in favor of Pakistan. The increased demand due to this opportunity automatically brought the prices down and solar panels became cheaper for the people of Pakistan.

The Dark Side of Cheap Solar Panels

Quality Concerns

The trend to slimmer frames and different materials has indirectly hit the solar panel’s durability. The number of breakage and cracking complaints has increased, approximately 10% of panels are having such issues. This has resulted in a huge overload of warranty claims and disputes which is making the situation more complex.

Industry Voices

While the price cut continues in the solar panel market, some voices in the industry are suggesting focusing on maintaining standards rather than going for more price reductions. It is important to balance affordability with quality to get long-term benefits and customer satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why the prices of solar panels are decreased in Pakistan.

Prices are going down because Europe has a lot of stock right now, and globally China and the West are in a good price war.

Are budget-friendly solar panels as good as the costly ones?

Cheaper panels are expected to have durability issues, there will be more breakage and warranty claims.

What are the technological advancements that affect solar panels?

Slimmer frames, 2mm glass, and half-cut photovoltaic cells are becoming standard in the market, which increases efficiency but also raises concerns about durability.