RERC opens solar access to all with new net metering rules

You no longer need a rooftop to use solar power. The Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission (RERC) introduced a new regulatory framework that allows consumers to access renewable energy even without installing panels on their own premises. Notified Monday, the framework introduces Virtual Net Metering (VNM) and Group Net Metering (GNM), mechanisms that let multiple consumers share solar power generated at a single location. Under these systems, consumers such as housing societies, govt buildings, and residential users can draw renewable energy from solar or battery-based systems located elsewhere within the same distribution company's (discom's) area.Surplus energy exported to the grid from such systems can be adjusted against multiple electricity connections of the same or different users. This model encourages collective ownership and shared use of solar energy. Systems can now be installed not only on rooftops but also on balconies, elevated structures, land, or even water bodies, offering flexibility and innovation in renewable generation.To make adoption easier, RERC has simplified the approval process. Domestic consumers installing systems up to 10 kW under Net, Virtual, or Group Net Metering will no longer need a technical feasibility study by the discom. For larger or non-domestic systems, feasibility checks must be completed within 15 days for existing users and 30 days for new applicants, as per the order.If the discom fails to respond within these timelines, the project will be automatically considered feasible. Once approved, grid connectivity must be provided within 30 days, ensuring faster and more predictable clearances. RERC said the reforms aim to "remove avoidable procedural bottlenecks and promote ease of doing business," while maintaining grid safety.The regulations also detail energy accounting and settlement procedures. In Group Net Metering, surplus units at one connection will be adjusted against other connections of the same consumer in a set order. In Virtual Net Metering, credits will be shared among participating consumers based on agreed ratios. Any unused credits at the end of the financial year will be settled by the discom at the prevailing power purchase rate.Significantly, renewable power generated under these schemes will be exempt from wheeling, banking, and cross-subsidy surcharges, except for partial charges applicable to govt consumers under RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) arrangements. The Commission has also offered additional waivers for projects that integrate battery energy storage systems, encouraging hybrid renewable installations.

The third amendment to the Grid Interactive Distributed Renewable Energy Generating Systems Regulations, 2025, marks a major step toward expanding decentralised and consumer-driven renewable energy.