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 An attempt was made to do this two years ago, but it was withdrawn following protests.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
KSEB Bill Amount: Rs.857
Additional liability: Rs.373
(The cost of electricity is the base)
Cost of solar power: Rs.2.69
KSEB Electricity Charges: Average Rs.4.20
Solar installed houses: 1.70 lakh
Applicants: 3 Lakhs