Bills
Net metering in India, explained in plain English
In shortNet metering lets your rooftop solar system send extra daytime power to the grid and pull power back at night, so you’re billed only for your net usage. It’s allowed up to 10 kW for homes and is what makes rooftop solar wipe out most of your bill.
Net metering is the single feature that makes rooftop solar worth it for most homes. Here’s the simple version.
How it works
Your panels make the most power in the daytime — often more than you use. That extra power flows into the grid, and your meter runs backwards. At night, you pull power back from the grid. At the end of the billing cycle you pay only for the net electricity you used.
Why it matters
Without net metering you’d waste your daytime surplus. With it, the grid acts like a free battery — which is why a well-sized system can cut your bill by ~70% or more.
The rules
- Net metering is deemed feasible up to 10 kW for homes under the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020.
- You apply through your DISCOM after your system is installed.
- Approval typically takes 15–45 days, depending on your state.
What to check
- Confirm your DISCOM offers net metering (almost all do for homes).
- Make sure your installer handles the net-metering application for you.
- Keep an eye on the timeline — some states are slower than others.
Want to see how much a net-metered system would save you? Try the savings calculator, then get quotes from vetted installers.
Sources
- Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020
- MNRE / CEA