Article Today, Hyderabad:
Rooftop solar consumers in Telangana have reported a sharp rise in electricity bills since September, following the Southern Power Distribution Company’s sudden switch from Net Metering to Gross Metering. The change, introduced without prior notice or explicit approval from the Electricity Regulatory Commission, has led to widespread concern among consumers.
Former Bureaucrat Flags Irregularity
Former CMD of AP Transco and retired IAS officer Suresh Chanda has raised a formal objection before the Telangana Electricity Regulatory Commission. In his letter, he stated that his bill from Rs. 877 for August to Rs. 1,444 for November despite a similar number of units being consumed. He described the shift in billing methodology as unilateral and contrary to the existing regulatory framework.
Shift from Net to Gross Metering
Under the Net Metering system, consumers were billed only for the net energy drawn from the grid after deducting the units exported from rooftop solar panels. However, from September, the Discom began calculating charges based on Gross Metering, where imported and exported units are treated separately. Imported units are billed at full retail tariff, while exported units receive a much lower settlement rate. This change has significantly increased the payable amount for consumers.
Regulatory Compliance Questioned
Mr. Chanda pointed out that the transition disregards the procedures laid out in the 2025 Rooftop Solar Regulation. According to the regulation, any change affecting consumers should follow due process, including public consultation and explicit approval from the ERC. He noted that the Discom’s move appears to violate these provisions and could be viewed as unfair to consumers.
Concern Over Impact on Solar Adoption
The sudden increase in bills has led many consumers to express concern about the financial viability of rooftop solar systems. Mr. Chanda warned that such abrupt policy changes could discourage future investment in renewable energy. He stated that consumers who invested significant amounts into solar installations now feel disadvantaged by the revised billing structure.
Request for Restoration of Previous Method
In his submission to the ERC, Mr. Chanda urged the Commission to instruct the Discom to revert to the Net Metering method that had been in place for years. He also requested a revision of bills issued since September based on the earlier provisions. Additionally, he sought an opportunity for a personal hearing to explain the broader public impact of the issue.
Awaiting Regulatory Response
The ERC is expected to review the complaint and examine whether the Discom’s actions align with existing regulations. Meanwhile, rooftop solar consumers continue to await clarity on billing norms and possible relief from the sudden increase in charges.
