Predicament for around 50000 solar applicants; Long wait for net meter continues

KOZHIKODE: Around 50,000 new applicants who have invested lakhs to set up rooftop solar systems are yet to obtain net meters from the KSEB. The wait has been gruelling for many who have installed these solar units after taking loans.

The KSEB is suggesting that consumers install their own net meters. However, a privately purchased meter—costing around Rs 6,000—comes with a warranty of only five years. The KSEB does not bear the cost of any losses or repairs if the meter malfunctions.

In contrast, KSEB's own net meter requires a monthly rental fee of Rs 30; it comes with a lifetime warranty.

A bi-directional meter, or net meter, is essential for measuring both the electricity consumed from the KSEB grid and the surplus electricity supplied to the grid through the solar project; the solar system cannot become operational without it.

Until March 31, 2025, the rate paid for surplus electricity supplied to the KSEB from solar units was Rs 3.26 per unit; a new rate has not yet been determined.

Domestic consumers installing solar systems under the Central Government's 'PM Surya Ghar' scheme are eligible for a subsidy of Rs 78,000. Reports indicate that this scheme is set to conclude this coming March.

KSEB has placed orders for 82,000 single-phase net meters and 21,000 three-phase net meters. The meters will be procured only after visiting the manufacturing company to verify their quality; this process will take at least a month. The net meters will need to be replaced when the newly introduced smart meters are installed.