“Unlocking the Potential of Solar Plus Storage: Overcoming Barriers and Implementing Efficient Metering Systems”

As the deployment of photovoltaic (PV) systems with energy storage becomes more common, distribution companies (Discoms) must consider the metering requirements for these systems to effectively manage the energy flows and billing. Here are some metering considerations for PV plus storage systems by Discoms:

1. Two-way metering: PV plus storage systems require two-way metering to measure both the energy imported from the grid and the energy exported to the grid. Discoms need to install bi-directional meters that can measure the flow of energy in both directions accurately.
2. Separate metering for PV and storage: It is essential to have separate meters for the PV system and the storage system. This enables Discoms to monitor and measure the energy generated by the PV system, the energy stored in the batteries, and the energy discharged from the batteries to the grid.
3. Interval metering: Interval metering is necessary to measure the energy consumption and generation at specific time intervals, such as every 15 minutes or 30 minutes. This enables Discoms to understand the pattern of energy consumption and generation, and to make informed decisions about the management of the energy flows.
4. Net metering: Net metering is a billing mechanism that allows customers to receive credit for the excess energy they generate from their PV plus storage system and export to the grid. Discoms must have a net metering policy in place that is fair and transparent to customers.
5. Smart metering: Smart metering systems can provide Discoms with real-time data on energy consumption and generation. This can enable Discoms to manage the energy flows more effectively and respond quickly to any issues that arise.

Discoms must consider two-way metering, separate metering for PV and storage, interval metering, net metering, and smart metering when deploying PV plus storage systems. By doing so, Discoms can manage the energy flows and billing more effectively and provide a better service to their customers.

Distribution companies (Discoms) face several barriers when it comes to implementing photovoltaic (PV) plus storage systems. Here are some of the main barriers:

1. Regulatory barriers: Regulatory barriers can include a lack of clear policies and regulations related to PV plus storage systems, which can make it difficult for Discoms to determine how to integrate these systems into their existing grid infrastructure. Additionally, existing regulations may not incentivize Discoms to invest in PV plus storage systems, or may impose restrictions that limit their ability to operate these systems.
2. Technical barriers: Technical barriers can include issues related to grid stability and reliability, such as the need for additional infrastructure investments to accommodate PV plus storage systems, or challenges related to balancing energy supply and demand.
3. Financial barriers: The high capital costs associated with PV plus storage systems can be a significant financial barrier for Discoms. Additionally, the lack of a clear revenue model can make it difficult for Discoms to justify investments in these systems.
4. Operational barriers: The operation and maintenance of PV plus storage systems can be complex and require specialized skills and knowledge. Discoms may need to invest in training and support to ensure that staff members have the necessary expertise to operate and maintain these systems effectively.
5. Perception barriers: Finally, there may be perception barriers related to the adoption of PV plus storage systems. Some stakeholders, such as regulators or consumers, may be skeptical of the benefits of these systems or may have concerns about the impact on the grid.

Discoms face several barriers when it comes to implementing PV plus storage systems, including regulatory, technical, financial, operational, and perception barriers. Addressing these barriers will require a coordinated effort from stakeholders across the energy sector, including policymakers, utilities, and consumers.

Several distribution companies (Discoms) in India are implementing solar plus storage metering to enable more efficient management of the energy flows and billing. Here are a few examples:

1. Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL): MSEDCL has implemented solar plus storage metering for its customers in the state of Maharashtra. The company has installed bi-directional meters that can measure the flow of energy in both directions and provide accurate billing for customers.
2. Kerala State Electricity Board Limited (KSEBL): KSEBL has implemented solar plus storage metering for its customers in the state of Kerala. The company has installed net meters that can measure the energy consumed and generated by the PV plus storage systems and provide credits to customers for the excess energy generated.
3. Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL): UPPCL has implemented solar plus storage metering for its customers in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The company has installed smart meters that can provide real-time data on energy consumption and generation and enable customers to track their energy usage and costs more accurately.
4. Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL): TPDDL has implemented solar plus storage metering for its customers in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The company has installed interval meters that can measure the energy consumption and generation at specific time intervals and enable more efficient management of the energy flows.
5. Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM): BESCOM has implemented solar plus storage metering for its customers in the state of Karnataka. The company has installed bi-directional meters that can measure the flow of energy in both directions and provide accurate billing for customers.

MSEDCL, KSEBL, UPPCL, TPDDL, and BESCOM are a few examples of Discoms in India that have implemented solar plus storage metering to improve the management of energy flows and billing for their customers.