Savings from solar power to decrease; net metering system to replace gross meter system

Tuesday 19 March, 2024 | 11:06 PM READ MALAYALAM VERSION

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The move to introduce gross meters is coming as a blow in the dark to those who have installed solar on rooftops lured by the promise of subsidy and dreaming of getting rid of excess electricity bills. The State Electricity Regulatory Commission is conducting a hearing tomorrow at 11 am at its headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram to find out if there is any objection. The new system will come into force thereafter, with the issuance of the order. An attempt was made to do this two years ago, but it was withdrawn following protests.

Those who feed solar power to KSEB's grid and use KSEB's power for household purposes were required to pay only for the excess power used. Net metering system was used for this. With the switch to gross metering, separate meters will be set up for solar power and electricity used for household purposes from KSEB.

KSEB will pay Rs 2.69 for solar. A bill will be given at an average rate of Rs 4.20 for household KSEB electricity. People who installed solar will face heavy losses.

Amount payable will increase

(eg three kilowatts of solar)

1. Net metering system

Solar Power: 180 units

Home Use: 200 units

Additional usage: 20 units

Bi-monthly bill for 20 units: Rs.126.

(The transaction is based on units of electricity)

2. Gross meter system

Solar Power: 180 units

Price of solar power: Rs.484

Home Use: 200 units