Net metering

A bi-directional meter records the units you import from the grid and the units you export. You are billed on the net consumption, with surplus typically carried forward or settled at a rate set by the regulator.

Gross metering

All solar generation is exported and paid at a feed-in tariff, while all consumption is billed at the retail tariff. Common for larger systems in some states.

Net billing

Import and export are valued at different rates – a middle path adopted by several states.

Why rules matter

  • Capacity limits relative to sanctioned load or transformer capacity.
  • Settlement period (monthly/annual) and payment for unused credits.
  • Application fees and meter charges.

These are set by each State Electricity Regulatory Commission and DISCOM.

Please verify the latest applicable rules with the relevant official authority. Scheme details, subsidy amounts, DISCOM procedures and net-metering rules change from time to time and vary by state.