Thursday, August 14, 2014: This month Delhiites will get the notification from Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission with the new regulations for net metering and also the first solar tariff for the city. Now, private players as well as individuals are allowed to install rooftop solar systems and generated energy will be supplied to the grid.
Whatever transaction in the grid takes place will be recorded in the meter. Now individuals will be free to draw as much as solar energy they need to meet their daily requirements. But, as experts have opined, if the solar energy scheme is to be made more successful, then more attractive incentives need to be provided on the solar tariff. DERC chairperson P D Sudhakar said, “The net metering proposal is at an advanced stage. It’s likely to be released this month. It’s meant for anyone who plans to supply renewable energy to the grid. For large private players, the tariff will be decided on a case-by-case basis depending on capital cost and the solar regulations we have. For individuals, the energy they produce can offset their electricity bills.”
A senior official added, “We are looking at various options specific to the type of consumer. We may offer subsidies in lower slabs for initial capital expenditure and more incentives to large customers like DMRC or malls. The policy is still being finalized and is new for us, too.” Another proposal has been submitted to the new and renewable energy ministry to provide subsidy on solar rooftop projects which will help in waiving loan interest rates. Experts insist on the financial incentives as they are important to make solar power generation more and more successful.
Abhishek Pratap, senior campaigner for renewable energy at Greenpeace India, said, “Why should people install solar PV systems if there is no financial incentive for them? They will build an extra floor instead. Only 30 per cent subsidy from the ministry is not attractive. DERC has the opportunity to set an example for state governments by providing preferential tariff to individuals.” Pratap also appreciated the tariff in Gujarat, provided for rooftop solar power generation. Now Tata Power Delhi is eagerly looking forward to this net metering notification and the tariff-based incentive. As soon as the notification arrives net meters will be provided by the power company. Presently Delhi government is mainly focused on government buildings and 10KW projects have been commissioned for government schools and hospitals.
