Start with your actual connection
Identify the consumer number, tariff category, sanctioned load and distribution company. Local metering regulations and implementation determine the applicable steps. Central guidelines provide deemed feasibility acceptance up to 10 kW, subject to how the regulator and DISCOM operationalise the provision; confirm your current workflow.
Assign the paperwork and corrections
Write down who supplies drawings, equipment details, installation photographs, tests and meter documents. Ask how inspection objections will be resolved. Keep copies and access to your application. A vendor's estimate of approval time is not a utility guarantee. Agree these roles in the quotation before work starts.
Understand credits and remaining charges
A bidirectional meter can record import and export, but settlement, carry-forward and charges follow the applicable rules. Ask your DISCOM to explain how the bill will show these entries. Solar does not automatically remove fixed charges, and an export reading is not the same as a cash payment, which is why the calculator withholds rupee savings.
Keep the completion record together
| Check | What to clarify |
|---|---|
| Application | ID, submitted documents and corrections |
| Technical completion | Inspection, tests and commissioning record |
| Metering | Meter details, agreement and billing explanation |
A useful definition
- Commissioning
- The documented testing and completion stage under the applicable technical and utility process.
Quick answers
What is net metering for rooftop solar?
Net metering uses a bidirectional meter to record the electricity you import from the grid and the solar electricity you export. Your DISCOM then settles the two under the applicable state regulations, which decide how credits carry forward and which charges remain. An export reading is not a cash payment, and fixed charges usually continue. Metering is also one of the steps before the subsidy is released.
A common question
Will solar work during a power cut?
A normal grid-tied inverter disconnects for safety. Backup needs a suitably designed arrangement; ask explicitly before buying.
Sources for this guide
UPNEDA
National Portal application steps
Application, installation records, consumer review and DISCOM inspection.
Checked: Rules can changeMNRE
Residential CFA operational guidelines · §§5–6
Standard rates, household/GHS eligibility, DCR and payment process. PDF, 57 pages.
Checked: Rules can changeBSES Rajdhani
Rooftop solar portal
Application, installer and net-metering guidance for the relevant connection.
Checked: Official sourceTata Power-DDL
Registered vendors and National Portal link
Official vendor-check destination; customer/vendor contracts remain separate.
Checked: Official source