How Net-Metering Works for Rooftop Solar in India — A Simple Guide for Homeowners | SolSetu
How Net-Metering Works for Rooftop Solar in India — A Simple Guide for Homeowners
Installing rooftop solar is exciting — but the real benefit begins once your system is connected to the grid. Net-metering allows you to export surplus power and get credits, lowering your electricity bills. Here’s a straightforward guide to how it works and what homeowners should look for.
Net-metering is a billing arrangement where excess solar generation exported to the grid earns credits against your consumption. Your meter records both import and export (bidirectional), and your bill reflects the net energy consumed.
Net-metering reduces your net electricity bill, shortens payback timelines for rooftop systems, and is often tied to government subsidy schemes such as PM Surya Ghar and PM-KUSUM. Proper net-metering ensures you capture full economic value from your system.
- Application: Vendor or owner files net-metering application with the Discom.
- Inspection: Discom inspects the installation for safety and compliance.
- Meter change: Old meter may be replaced with a bidirectional meter.
- Commissioning: System is commissioned and export/import accounting starts.
- Billing: Your subsequent bills will show export credits and net charges.
- Confirm whether the vendor will handle net-metering paperwork and follow up with Discom.
- Clarify whether the policy in your state allows rollover credits, expiry of credits, or cash settlements.
- Ask for expected timeline for inspections and meter change.
- Request a sample post-commissioning bill calculation from your vendor.
- Myth: You’ll always get cash for exported power. Fact: Most Discoms credit export against consumption; cash payouts are rare.
- Myth: Installation alone guarantees savings. Fact: Proper approvals and correct metering are essential to get full credits.
- Myth: Net-metering won’t help if you mostly self-consume. Fact: Surplus days still give export credits that reduce long-term bills.
- Filter vendors by experience with net-metering and state Discom processes.
- Post your requirement and receive multiple, comparative quotes that include net-metering support.
- Access checklists and guides to ensure vendors follow correct documentation and commissioning steps.
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- Keep a copy of the application filed with the Discom.
- Record panel/inverter serial numbers and delivery notes.
- Request staged photographs/videos of installation.
- Obtain commissioning certificate and meter change receipt.
- Set up monitoring access and an O&M SLA with your vendor.
Net-metering is central to capturing the full economic benefit of rooftop solar. If you need help finding empanelled vendors or want templates for net-metering paperwork, post your requirement and get started today.