In this article we discuss how net metering works, steps to getting on the program with ZESA, and how Infinity Solar can support you in the process.
What Is Net Metering?
Net metering is a billing system that allows you to generate your own electricity using solar panels and feed any excess energy back into the ZESA grid. Instead of losing that surplus, it gets credited to your account—offsetting your electricity bills as needed
In essence, when your solar panels produce more energy than you’re using, the net meter runs backward (you’re “exporting” electricity). When you draw power from the grid, it runs forward (you’re “importing”). At the end of the billing cycle, you pay only for the net usage
How ZESA (ZETDC) Implements Net Metering
Here’s how the system works in Zimbabwe:
- First you need an inverter that can feed back into the grid. Examples include Infinity Solar’s Dyness, Deye, Solis, Sunsynk inverters.
- The you need a bi-directional meter (one that measures both import and export)
- Excess kWh you send to the grid are credited to your account—effectively reducing your future bills (though not paid in cash)
- ZESA net metering credits are non-transferable and, as shared by users, are not monetized—they only offset your own electricity usage
- According to Statutory Instrument 86 of 2018, for every 1 kWh you feed into the grid, you receive 0.9 kWh credit on your bill
- Fong-term planners: credits may be reset annually if not used
Step-by-Step: Registering for Net Metering in Zimbabwe
- Get the ENM1 form
Pick it up at any ZETDC office or download it from the self-service portal - Submit ENM1 & pay application fee
According to SI 86 of 2018, ENM1 costs US$20; some reports quote local fees in ZWL (e.g., ZWL 607 for domestic customers) - Site inspection & technical assessment
ZETDC visits your site to verify technical compliance - Submit ENM2 & pay connection fee
ENM2 costs US$5, though final connection fees vary by site and system capacity - Meter installation & commissioning
ZETDC installs the bi-directional meter and performs commissioning. If all checks pass, you’re connected under a 20-year contract
Final Thoughts
Net metering in Zimbabwe offers a powerful way to reduce electricity costs, improve energy independence, and promote clean energy. The biggest advantage is that net metering allows you to use the ZESA grid as a battery, feeding excess power into it, then claiming it back for cooking heating etc. It’s best suited for households and businesses ready to invest in solar but mindful that:
- Credits are non-monetary,
- There’s a 0.9:1 ratio for credits,
- And credits expire annually if not used.
But for many Zimbabweans, that still represents smart, sustainable savings—especially where load-shedding and high tariffs persist. Starting with this system can be your first step toward a more resilient, eco-conscious future.
Ready to Take Advantage of Net Metering?
With more than 100 successful net-metered installations across Zimbabwe, Infinity Solar is your trusted partner in navigating the process from start to finish. Whether you already have a solar system and want us to assess its feasibility for net metering, or you’re planning to install a brand-new system with net metering capabilities, we’ll guide you every step of the way and reduce the whole process to mere days.