Delhi’s Guidelines For Peer-To-Peer (P2P) Renewable Energy Transactions And Advanced Metering Infrastructure

The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) has introduced new guidelines for Peer-to-Peer (P2P) energy transactions, focusing on the use of renewable energy and enhancing the opportunities for consumers and prosumers (individuals who both produce and consume energy) within the city’s distribution network. The aim is to promote the adoption of renewable energy sources, enable local generation, and provide financial benefits to those participating in the energy market through innovative technological solutions.

The guidelines outline a metering arrangement that requires both prosumers and consumers to have advanced metering infrastructure installed at their premises. These meters, compliant with Time of Day (ToD) requirements or smart metering technology, are essential for accurately capturing energy transactions. If such meters are not already in place, participants must ensure their installation to engage in P2P energy trading. The data from these meters will be used by service providers to manage billing and reconciliation processes, with the potential need for separate agreements with distribution companies (DISCOMs).

To participate in P2P transactions, eligible consumers and prosumers must register with the distribution licensee or an authorized service provider. This registration process involves submitting relevant information about their energy systems. The guidelines specify different forms for those with systems up to their sanctioned load and for those with systems exceeding their sanctioned load but not more than 500% of it. The distribution licensee has 15 days to verify network compatibility for the P2P setup once the form is submitted. In cases where there are deficiencies or reasons for rejection, the applicants will be informed within five days, and if they resubmit, the process will be revisited promptly. Once the application is accepted, the registration on the P2P platform must be completed within five days, allowing participants to start their energy transactions.

The guidelines apply to a wide range of consumers and prosumers within the distribution area of the licensee. Prosumers with renewable energy systems that are within their sanctioned load limits can participate, as well as those with systems that exceed these limits up to a defined maximum. However, ground-mounted projects are not included under these guidelines. For consumers and prosumers opting for P2P transactions, the total connected load or demand must be below a specified threshold, ensuring that the system is manageable within the existing distribution framework.

An essential aspect of the guidelines is the flexibility it offer to participants in terms of the benefits they can choose from different metering arrangements. Participants can select from Virtual Net Metering, Group Net Metering, or the new P2P Metering Arrangements, but they can only benefit from one at any given time. The option to switch between these arrangements is allowed once per financial year, providing flexibility to adapt to changing energy needs and market conditions.

These guidelines are designed to foster a conducive environment for the growth of renewable energy by enabling efficient P2P energy transactions. The structured registration process and the clear delineation of roles and responsibilities ensure that participants can engage in energy trading with confidence. By promoting local generation and use of renewable energy, the guidelines aim to reduce dependence on non-renewable sources, contribute to environmental sustainability, and provide economic benefits to consumers and prosumers.

The DERC’s P2P energy transaction guidelines represent a significant step towards a more sustainable and decentralized energy market. They offer a well-defined framework for participants to trade energy securely and efficiently, leveraging advanced metering technology and supportive regulatory measures. This initiative not only encourages the adoption of renewable energy but also enhances the resilience of the local energy grid by promoting embedded generation and energy independence among consumers and prosumers.

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