MERC Allows C&I Consumer Simultaneous Benefits of Net Metering and Open Access

In another judgment related to rooftop solar connections for the Commercial & Industrial (C&I) segment, the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has reiterated that net metering and open access can coexist in Maharashtra. This follows similar observations made by the state power regulator in several earlier cases.

In the latest case, the regulator granted relief to Hatsun Agro Product Limited (HAPL), a dairy company that was using an on-site rooftop solar system along with open access to meet its power requirements. The petitioner approached MERC, citing the denial of net-metering benefits for its rooftop solar installation. HAPL submitted that the state distribution company, MSEDCL, had allowed only gross metering instead of net metering for its rooftop solar plant, citing its own reasons.

Background Of the Case 

The Solapur-based company had installed a 983 kW rooftop solar system in 2022. While HAPL sought to operate under the net-metering regime, MSEDCL computed its energy settlement based on gross metering. The use of the gross-metering mechanism resulted in lower credits for the solar prosumer compared to what would have been available under net metering.

As per submissions made by MSEDCL, the DOA (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2023—which explicitly allow the coexistence of net metering and open access—came into force after the petitioner had installed its rooftop solar system. MSEDCL also argued that the petitioner had applied through an incorrect portal. MERC, however, held MSEDCL responsible, citing alleged delays on its part in implementing the 2023 regulations.

Can't Deny Net-Metering 

MERC observed that the benefits of rooftop solar net metering should not be denied to a consumer due to failures on the part of the distribution licensee. In its final order, the Commission directed both parties to reconcile the disputed claim amounts within 30 days and to apply net-metering adjustments retrospectively from November 2023.

“As MSEDCL has already granted Open Access permissions to HAPL, as per provisions of the Regulations, it needs to allow simultaneous utilization of energy generated from rooftop solar plant under net-metering. Hence, the Commission directs MSEDCL to pass on corresponding credit adjustments in electricity bills of HAPL. This ruling of the Commission is subject to outcome of Case No.232 of 2024,” the order said.

This ruling serves as a clear directive to MSEDCL that it must not discriminate between consumers and must uphold the legislative intent of the 2023 amendments, which prioritise the transition to green energy.