State Electricity Regulators and DISCOMs advised to comply Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020 to promote rooftop solar in the country.

India has set an ambitious target of achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, out of which 280 GW is expected to come from solar power. To achieve this target, the government is promoting rooftop solar as a means to reduce the dependence on traditional sources of energy and lower carbon emissions.

Recently, the Ministry of Power has advised State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs) and Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) to comply with the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, to promote rooftop solar in the country.

The Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020 were issued by the Ministry of Power to ensure that consumers have the right to access and use electricity from renewable energy sources. These rules give consumers the right to install rooftop solar panels on their premises and feed excess electricity generated back into the grid.

The rules require SERCs to specify a minimum percentage of the total consumption of electricity in the area served by DISCOMs that should come from renewable energy sources, including rooftop solar. SERCs are also required to specify a solar Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) that DISCOMs must meet by procuring power from solar projects.

DISCOMs are required to facilitate the installation of rooftop solar panels and ensure that consumers are provided with net-metering facilities. Net metering allows consumers to feed excess electricity generated from their rooftop solar panels into the grid and earn credits for the same, which can be used to offset their future electricity bills.

The implementation of these rules will not only help in promoting rooftop solar but also improve the financial health of DISCOMs. With consumers generating their own electricity and feeding excess energy back into the grid, DISCOMs can reduce their power purchase costs and ensure a stable power supply to their consumers.

In addition to promoting rooftop solar, the rules also provide for the establishment of a Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum to resolve any disputes between consumers and DISCOMs.

India has immense potential for rooftop solar, and the implementation of the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, can go a long way in promoting this clean and sustainable source of energy. By complying with these rules, SERCs and DISCOMs can help in achieving India’s renewable energy targets, reduce the country’s dependence on traditional sources of energy, and promote sustainable development.tate Electricity Regulators and DISCOMs advised to comply Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020 to promote rooftop solar in the country.