MSERC Notifies DRES Regulations 2026 To Boost Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Adoption In Meghalaya

The Meghalaya State Electricity Regulatory Commission (MSERC) has officially notified the Grid-Interactive Distributed Renewable Energy Sources (DRES) Regulations, 2026, marking a significant step toward promoting renewable energy adoption in the state. Issued on April 30, 2026, the new rules create a structured framework that allows consumers to generate their own renewable power and integrate it with the electricity grid.

The regulations apply to distributed renewable energy systems with a capacity of up to 10 MW, connected at voltage levels of 33 kV or below. One of the most notable aspects of the framework is the introduction of multiple metering mechanisms designed to suit different types of consumers. Under net metering, which is mainly intended for residential users, farmers, and government buildings, consumers can offset their electricity consumption with the energy they generate, with excess units carried forward within a specified settlement period.

The net billing mechanism is open to all consumer categories and calculates electricity bills by assigning different rates to imported and exported power. In contrast, gross metering allows consumers to sell all the electricity they generate directly to the distribution company at a fixed tariff. The regulations also introduce group and virtual net metering models, enabling surplus power generated at one location to be adjusted against multiple service connections, either belonging to a single entity or a group of users.

Another provision is the “behind the meter” system, which focuses entirely on self-consumption. In this arrangement, no electricity is exported to the grid, as reverse power flow relays are used to prevent backflow. To maintain grid stability, MSERC has capped the total DRES capacity connected to a distribution transformer at 80% of its rated capacity.

The regulations also include a storage requirement to improve reliability. Systems larger than 10 kW under net metering must install battery storage equal to at least 20% of their daily generation capacity. On the financial side, consumers are offered several incentives. Projects installed on-site, whether owned by the consumer or developed under a RESCO model, are exempt from charges such as wheeling and cross-subsidy surcharges.

For excess energy remaining at the end of the financial year, the settlement will be done at rates ranging from 75% to 100% of the weighted average solar tariff, depending on the applicable metering arrangement. The administrative process has also been streamlined, with the Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited assigned to manage applications through an online portal. Feasibility studies must be completed within 15 days, while smaller systems may receive automatic approval.

These new regulations replace the earlier 2015 rooftop solar rules and align with the latest model guidelines issued by the Forum of Regulators. With this move, MSERC aims to support renewable energy targets and encourage consumers to actively participate in Meghalaya’s clean energy transition.