Net metering is what turns your rooftop solar into real savings — every unit you export to the grid is credited against the units you import later. Here is how the process works in UP and Delhi, and what actually determines your bill.
How net metering works
A bi-directional meter records both import (grid → home) and export (home → grid). Your bill is calculated on net consumption over the billing period, usually at a prescribed rate or adjusted unit-for-unit, as per your discom's rules.
Application process
- Apply to your discom (PVUVNL / MGVCL in UP, BSES / TPDDL in Delhi) with plant details
- Technical feasibility approval — they check your connection capacity and local transformer headroom
- Install the plant through a registered vendor
- Install the net meter after discom inspection/approval
- Commissioning and meter sealing
What affects your actual savings
- Self-consumption ratio — using power when the sun shines gives the best return
- Export credit rate vs your slab rate — many discoms credit at a lower rate than the highest slab
- Billing period alignment — summer generation exports offset winter imports
- Plant size vs your daytime load — oversizing lowers the value of exported units
How the inverter affects net metering
Grid voltage rise caused by export is the single most common reason for inverter tripping in net-metered homes, especially at the end of long feeders. If your inverter shuts down at midday with a grid over-voltage code, the wiring and cable sizing — not the meter — should be checked first.
Frequently asked questions
Can I export unlimited power?
Discoms cap sanctioned load or plant capacity for export. Your plant size is approved against your connection, and export beyond the approved capacity is not permitted.
Do I need net metering for on-grid solar?
For exporting power and receiving credit, yes. Without a net meter, your system works in zero-export mode or only offsets daytime self-consumption.
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