Introduction:
With the rapid growth of solar energy in Pakistan, many industrial, commercial, and hybrid solar users face confusion between DG Capacity and Export MDI. These two terms are frequently mentioned during net metering approval, NOC issuance, and electricity billing, yet most consumers do not clearly understand how they differ—or why exceeding limits can lead to penalties.
This blog explains the difference between DG Capacity and Export MDI in simple language, especially for Pakistani solar users, so you can design and operate your solar system safely and legally.
MFES Solar Energy has explained DG Capacity And Export MDI in detail for Pakistani solar users. Watch the video below for a practical explanation.
What Is DG Capacity in Solar Systems?
DG Capacity (Distributed Generation Capacity) refers to the total approved power capacity of your solar system as mentioned in your DISCO NOC.
In simple words:
It is the maximum solar power you are allowed to install and export
It is measured in kilowatts (kW)
It is a fixed, approved number
Example:
If your solar NOC mentions DG Capacity = 9.2 kW, this means:
You are legally allowed to install solar panels up to 9.2 kW
Your system should not export more than this approved capacity
📌 In Pakistan, DG Capacity is usually approved based on:
Sanctioned load
DISCO rules (LESCO, IESCO, FESCO, KE, etc.)
Net metering regulations
Net Billing Policy in Pakistan 2025 | NEPRA Prosumer Guide
What Is Export MDI?
Export MDI (Maximum Demand Indicator) measures the highest power your solar system actually exports to the grid at any moment.
In simple words:
It is not fixed
It changes with sunlight, load, and system behavior
It is recorded by your bidirectional meter
Export MDI shows:
“At what maximum point did your system push electricity into the grid?”
Key Difference Between DG Capacity and Export MDI
| Factor | DG Capacity | Export MDI |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Approved solar system size | Actual peak exported power |
| Nature | Fixed (approved in NOC) | Dynamic (meter-recorded) |
| Unit | kW | kW |
| Purpose | Legal installation & export limit | Monitoring export behavior |
| Who sets it | DISCO / Utility | Electricity meter |
| Penalty risk | No (if followed) | Yes (if exceeds DG capacity) |
Why Export MDI Matters in Pakistan
In Pakistan, DISCOs closely monitor Export MDI to ensure that:
Consumers do not export more power than approved
Grid stability is maintained
Infrastructure limits are respected
If your Export MDI exceeds your approved DG Capacity, a penalty is charged, even if it happens for a short time.
Simple Penalty Example (Very Important)
Let’s say:
Approved DG Capacity = 9.2 kW
At 12:00 PM, strong sunlight causes export = 9.5 kW
What happens?
Export MDI records 9.5 kW
This exceeds approved DG Capacity
DISCO applies Export MDI penalty
📌 Even a 0.3 kW difference can cause billing issues.
DG Capacity vs Export MDI for Industrial & Hybrid Users
This topic is especially critical for:
Factories
Textile units
Commercial plazas
Hybrid solar systems with batteries
Why?
Load fluctuates frequently
Excess solar export is common
Inverter sizing mistakes can trigger penalties
For such users, proper system design is essential.
Which Is More Important Today: DG Capacity or Export MDI?
👉 DG Capacity is the legal limit
👉 Export MDI is the practical risk
Short Answer:
Both are important, but Export MDI causes real financial penalties if ignored.
Best Practice (2025–2026):
Design solar system within DG Capacity
Control inverter export to avoid MDI breach
Use professional engineering instead of guesswork
Net Metering in Pakistan – Process, Benefits & MFES Services
Common Mistakes Pakistani Solar Users Make
❌ Installing oversized inverters
❌ Ignoring export control settings
❌ Assuming “extra export doesn’t matter”
❌ Not understanding DISCO billing logic
These mistakes lead to:
Penalties
Delays in approvals
Unexpected bills
FAQs – Difference Between DG Capacity and Export MDI
What is DG Capacity in Pakistan?
DG Capacity is the maximum solar power capacity approved by your DISCO in the NOC.
What is Export MDI?
Export MDI is the highest amount of power your system exports to the grid at any moment.
Can Export MDI be higher than DG Capacity?
It can happen technically, but it is not allowed and results in penalties.
Who calculates Export MDI?
Your bidirectional net meter automatically records Export MDI.
Is Export MDI important for net metering?
Yes. DISCOs use Export MDI to ensure you follow approved limits.
Why Choose MFES Solar Energy (Best Solar Company in Lahore)
MFES Solar Energy offers:
- Professional system design under 2025 regulations
- Realistic ROI forecasting
- Net billing & net metering approval support
- Engineering-based solar solutions
- Tier-1 solar equipment
- After-sales maintenance
Why clients trust MFES:
- Transparent guidance
- Policy-compliant approach
- Hundreds of residential & commercial installations
Local Lahore expertise - Guaranteed performance delivery
MFES Solar Energy focuses on long-term customer benefit, not sales gimmicks.
MFES Solar Energy
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between DG Capacity and Export MDI is essential for every solar user in Pakistan—especially industrial and hybrid system owners. DG Capacity defines what is legally allowed, while Export MDI determines whether you stay compliant in real operation.
With proper engineering, export control, and expert guidance from MFES Solar Energy, solar users can avoid penalties, protect their investment, and enjoy smooth, policy-compliant solar performance.
Contact MFES Solar Energy
📍 Plot 188, Opposite Expo Center Gate #3, Johar Town, Lahore
📞 0300-1599957 | 0314-3072721 | 042-31357272
🌐 www.mfes.com.pk
📧 info@mfes.com.pk
📘 facebook.com/MultifunctionalEngineeringSolutions
1 comment
New LESCO Billing Policy Cuts Export Rate For Net Metering Users
February 5, 2026