The Ministry of Power (MoP) has come out with draft electricity rules 2020 aimed at streamlining the process of supply of solar electricity to consumers by distribution licensees (DISCOMs).
As per the new rules, consumers will have the right to set up renewable energy generating projects, including rooftop solar projects, either by themselves or through a service provider.
Consumers can set up renewable energy generating projects in their premises, apart from rooftop projects, but the capacity should not exceed the limit prescribed by the Commission.
The Commission will lay down rules for the grid-connected rooftop solar systems within six months of the notification of these rules.
Further, rooftop solar projects of capacity up to 5 kW will be applicable for net metering, and projects above 5 kW will be eligible for gross metering.
DISCOMs need to sign the connection agreement, install the meter, and commission the system within 30 days from the date of submission of the installation certificate by the consumer.
However, in case of a delay, the DISCOM will be liable to pay compensation of ₹500 per day for each day of the default to the consumer.
The energy generated must be adjusted against the energy consumed or the bill amount, depending on whether it is a net metering or gross metering. If the bill is furnished with a delay of 60 days or more, the consumer will be given a rebate of 2% to 5%.
Hope these steps will speed up the lagging rooftop solar implementation and put India on road to achieving the set rooftop target.
Reference- Mercom India, Economic Times, Money Control, Clean Technica