The Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC) held a public hearing on July 10, 2024, to discuss proposed amendments to the regulations governing rooftop solar grid interactive systems based on net metering and gross metering. This meeting was focused on finalizing the first amendment to the regulations initially established in 2021.
The background of this discussion traces back to the original regulations notified by the HERC on July 19, 2021. Following various updates to the national rules concerning consumer rights, the latest significant amendment came in February 2024. This amendment highlighted the necessity for a technical feasibility study for rooftop solar photovoltaic systems to be completed within fifteen days. If not communicated within this period, the proposal would be considered technically feasible. Furthermore, applications for systems up to 10 kW capacity, if complete in all respects, would be accepted without needing a technical feasibility study.
The HERC aimed to align its regulations with these updated national guidelines. Consequently, the draft amendment to the 2021 regulations was prepared, incorporating these changes and additional guidelines from the Ministry of Power. This draft was then shared on the Commission’s website and publicized in both Hindi and English newspapers. Stakeholders and the general public were invited to submit their comments or objections by July 3, 2024, and a public hearing was scheduled for July 10, 2024.
During the public hearing, representatives from the distribution companies (DISCOMs) were present, but no stakeholders or interveners submitted comments on the proposed amendments. The Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam (UHBVN), one of the DISCOMs, expressed its written consensus on the proposed changes.
The Commission reviewed the proposed amendments and agreed with them. The key changes included that applications for rooftop solar systems up to 10 kW, complete in all respects, would be accepted without requiring a technical feasibility study. Any necessary enhancement of the sanctioned load for the consumer would be managed by the distribution licensee. Additionally, if any deficiencies in the application were found during the technical feasibility study, these would need to be communicated to the applicant within fifteen days. If not, the proposal would be presumed technically feasible.
With these adjustments, the Commission finalized the amendments to the regulations. These changes aim to streamline the process for installing rooftop solar systems, reducing the bureaucratic hurdles and encouraging the adoption of solar energy by simplifying the application process for smaller systems. The finalized amendment was documented and signed by the Commission on July 15, 2024, marking a significant step towards improving the regulatory framework for rooftop solar installations in Haryana.
The HERC’s commitment to adapting its regulations in line with national guidelines and stakeholder feedback underscores its role in facilitating the growth of renewable energy in the region. This amendment is expected to boost the adoption of rooftop solar systems, contributing to the state’s and the country’s broader renewable energy goals.
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