Rajasthan Discoms Plan Introducing Virtual Net-Metering

Rajasthan Discoms Plan Introducing Virtual Net-Metering

The Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission (RERC) has issued a public notice inviting comments and suggestions on a key petition filed by Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (JVVNL), seeking to amend the state’s renewable energy regulations to enable Virtual Net Metering (VNM) and Group Net Metering (GNM).

The petition, submitted on behalf of Rajasthan’s three power distribution companies — JVVNL, AVVNL, and JdVVNL — proposes amendments to the RERC (Grid Interactive Distributed Renewable Energy Generating Systems) Regulations, 2021. The changes aim to facilitate the implementation of the central government’s “PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana,” which targets the installation of rooftop solar systems in one crore households across the country.

Rule Modification Sought 

Filed under Sections 86(1) and 181 of the Electricity Act, 2003, the petition specifically seeks to modify Regulations 20, 21, and 22 of the existing framework. Currently, the RERC DREGS Regulations only permit net metering, net billing, and behind-the-meter grid-interactive systems, not availing either option.

According to the petitioners, the proposed amendments are critical to enable the **Utility Led Aggregation (ULA)** mode of rooftop solar deployment under the PM Surya Ghar scheme. While the current regulations accommodate the **Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO)** model, they lack provisions for VNM and GNM — mechanisms the petitioners say are essential for implementing ULA projects led by discoms or state-designated agencies.

Precedents Cited 

The petition also cites regulatory precedents in states such as Delhi, Odisha, Maharashtra, and Assam, where VNM and GNM have already been permitted, and argues that similar measures would help unlock Rajasthan’s untapped renewable energy potential.

In line with Section 181(3) of the Electricity Act and the Electricity (Procedure for Previous Publications) Rules, 2005, the Commission has invited written feedback from stakeholders. Interested parties are required to submit six copies of their comments or suggestions by June 16, 2025.