Himachal Pradesh Streamlines Draft Regulations For Rooftop Solar PV Systems With Third Amendments

The Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission has introduced new amendments to its Rooftop Solar PV Grid Interactive System Regulations, initially established in 2015. These amendments termed the Third Amendment Regulations of 2024, are set to take effect upon their publication in the Rajpatra of Himachal Pradesh. The primary focus of these changes is to streamline the regulatory process for rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of solar energy implementation in the state.

One significant addition to the regulations is the definition of a ‘State Nodal Agency.’ This term now includes the Himachal Pradesh Energy Development Agency (HIMURJA) and the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited, which are designated as the agencies responsible for implementing solar rooftop schemes. This inclusion clarifies the roles of these bodies in promoting and managing solar energy projects.

In Regulation 7, specific amendments have been made to improve the registration and approval process for eligible consumers seeking financial assistance for their rooftop solar systems. Consumers can now register their systems with either HIMURJA or the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited through online or offline modes. Upon receipt of the registration request, these agencies are required to acknowledge and process the application within specified timelines, as outlined in the newly added Table 4. If the consumer meets the eligibility criteria, the agency will grant in-principle approval and proceed with actions to provide subsidies.

Additionally, the amendments specify that all stakeholders, including the distribution licensee, eligible consumers, the State Nodal Agency, and relevant authorities, must adhere to the timelines provided in Tables 3 and 4 for various activities. These activities range from registration to the technical feasibility study and the granting of subsidies. Notably, if the timelines specified in the National Electricity (Right of Consumers) Rule are shorter than those in the amended regulations, the shorter timelines will apply.

A key change in Table 3 involves the technical feasibility study. For rooftop solar PV systems up to 10 kW capacity, the application will be deemed accepted without requiring a technical feasibility study. For systems exceeding 10 kW capacity, the technical feasibility study must be completed within 15 days. If the study is not completed within this period, the proposal will be considered technically feasible by default.

The Commission’s amendments are partly driven by a notification from the Ministry of Power, which exempts rooftop solar PV systems up to 10 kW from requiring a technical feasibility study. This change aims to expedite the approval process and encourage the adoption of smaller solar installations by reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

The regulatory body emphasizes that these amendments are designed to facilitate the deployment of rooftop solar systems, making it easier for consumers to take advantage of available financial assistance and subsidies. The streamlined process aims to address delays and inefficiencies that previously hampered the implementation of solar projects. By setting clear timelines and responsibilities, the Commission seeks to enhance the operational efficiency of solar energy deployment in Himachal Pradesh.

The Commission has invited objections or suggestions regarding the draft amendments from all stakeholders and interested parties by the end of May 2024. These inputs will be considered before finalizing the amendments, ensuring that the regulations reflect the needs and concerns of all affected parties.

These regulatory updates are a significant step towards promoting renewable energy in Himachal Pradesh, aiming to simplify procedures and reduce delays for consumers and providers of rooftop solar PV systems. By establishing clear guidelines and timelines, the Commission hopes to foster a more conducive environment for the growth of solar energy in the state.

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