Meralco net metering: how to apply

Steps to apply with Meralco

1. 1 Application Submit the Net-Metering Application Form for Solar PV Systems with your supporting documents. Add an Annex Sheet if your system has more than one model or rating of panel, inverter or battery, or if you are a primary-metered customer. Meralco checks if you are eligible. If you don't want a REC meter, Meralco discusses the setup options and billing effects with you.
2. 2 Evaluation Meralco runs a Distribution Impact Study to check if the grid can take your system. Systems of 7 kWp and below are assessed with engineering computations. Larger systems may need a Power Quality Analysis, which can take longer. If upgrades are needed, a Distribution Asset Study follows. Meralco issues a yellow card, which your LGU may ask for before it issues the CFEI. If your meter must be replaced, you get a Difference in Meter Cost invoice.
3. 3 Inspection Make any service entrance changes Meralco recommends and tell Meralco your preferred inspection date. Once your service entrance complies, Meralco issues the Net-Metering Agreement and the Fixed-Asset Boundary Document for signing.
4. 4 Completion Submit the CFEI from your LGU, the signed agreement and boundary document, the notarized Affidavit and Waiver if you skip the REC meter, and any meter cost charge. Pay the ERC Certificate of Compliance application fee after you receive the ERC Statement of Account.
5. 5 Energization and commissioning Meralco replaces your meter with a bi-directional meter and installs a REC meter if you chose one. It tests that the system disconnects within 2 seconds during an outage and reconnects only after 10 minutes of stable grid supply. A special meter reading marks the start of net-metering service.
6. 6 Transmittal and ERC filing Meralco sends your documents to the ERC. The process is complete when the ERC issues your Certificate of Compliance.

Requirements Meralco lists

• Accomplished Net-Metering Application Form for Solar PV Systems
• Annex Sheet, if your system has several panel, inverter or battery models or ratings, or if you are primary-metered
• Valid ID of your representative and authorization documents, if someone applies for you
• Certificate of Final Electrical Inspection (CFEI) from your LGU
• Signed Net-Metering Agreement and Fixed-Asset Boundary Document (notarization not required; e-signatures allowed)
• Notarized Affidavit and Waiver, only if you choose not to install a REC meter

The ERC’s September 2025 advisory says utilities may only require the application form, the CFEI from your LGU, the amended net-metering agreement and the ERC fee. If an item above isn’t on that list, ask Meralco whether it’s still required.

Fees

LGU permit fees (electrical permit, CFEI) are separate and vary by city or municipality.

How long it takes

• 20 working days. Under the ERC’s 2025 amended rules, the utility has 20 working days to connect you once your permits are in place. (Ocampo & Suralvo Law Offices)
• 10 working days during the energy emergency. In April 2026 the DOE directed utilities and cooperatives to finish processing within 10 working days while the national energy emergency (EO 110, s. 2026) is in force. Ask your utility whether this still applies. (GMA News)
• Faster LGU permits. Under Joint Memorandum Circular No. 001, s. 2026, LGUs should issue the electrical permit within 3 working days and the CFEI within 7 working days, without extra requirements. (Department of the Interior and Local Government Region IV-A)

Good to know

• Eligibility: a renewable energy system of up to 100 kW (100 kWp for solar PV), an account in the applicant's name, and an account in good credit standing with no unpaid balance.
• Meralco does not publish a processing time. It says systems above 7 kWp may take longer to evaluate.
• The ERC fee can be paid online through the ERC-LBP Link.BizPortal, by check payable to "Energy Regulatory Commission", or in cash at the Business Center.
• Energization, testing and commissioning do not start until all documents are complete.
• If you won't export power, Meralco offers a Zero Export option instead of net metering. Meralco asks that solar systems for own use still be reported.
• Meralco publishes indicative hosting capacities for single-phase transformers, for example 7 kW on a 10 or 15 kVA transformer and 10 kW on a 25 kVA transformer. The final figure depends on its study.

Meralco net metering FAQs