Net Metering is clearly gaining momentum in India as States frame policies to move towards achieving the 40 GW rooftop target set by the Central Government.
Elaborating on the importance of Net Metering solar applications, Manu Srivastava, Principal Secretary and Commissioner, New and Renewable Energy Department said, “Net metering has excited all of us. Net metering and consequently, the rooftop solar applications are an area which need action.”
Highlighting the achievements of the State in the renewable segment, he said Madhya Pradesh is one of the leading States in solar and wind. “We have the biggest solar plant not only in the country, but also in Asia and wind capacity in the State is also sizeable,” he added.
He was speaking at the Roundtable Session on the ‘Availability, Accessibility and Affordability of Power in India: A Review of the Net Metering Policy’, in Bhopal on Wednesday.
He further said that the State regulator is in the process of finalising the regulations on net metering which would be circulated for comments to all stakeholders.
Seeking inputs on areas that need resolution, Srivastava said, “The draft regulations do not provide for the course of action on how units that are left over at the end of the year get monetized. Transformer capacity is another area in which details need to be ironed out.” He also sought overall inputs on the policy.
Highlighting the investment opportunity in this segment, Vijay Agrawal, Chairman, CII Bhopal Zonal Council and CMD, Narmada Switchgear Pvt ltd said, “According to industry estimates, the 40 GW of solar rooftops will entail investments of up to Rs 4 lakh crore and is a big investment opportunity for all.”
Elaborating on the salient features of Net Metering Rajya Wardhan Ghei, CEO – India Solar Business, Hindustan Power said, “Net Metering is an extension that will enable the country to achieve power for all and will also help in reducing the huge AT&C losses that have accumulated in the country.”