SolarSavings
Understanding DERC Net Metering Regulations (2026)
The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) enforces a robust 1:1 net metering policy that ensures homeowners receive maximum value from their solar systems.
📋 The 1:1 Unit Offset Rule:
Under DERC guidelines, you get a 1-to-1 unit offset. If you import 500 units from the grid but export 400 surplus solar units, BSES/TPDDL will bill you for exactly 100 units. If you are billed under the standard domestic slab, your export units are effectively valued at the highest slab rate you offset.
Under DERC guidelines, you get a 1-to-1 unit offset. If you import 500 units from the grid but export 400 surplus solar units, BSES/TPDDL will bill you for exactly 100 units. If you are billed under the standard domestic slab, your export units are effectively valued at the highest slab rate you offset.
Annual Settlement & Carry Forward
Delhi handles excess energy gracefully:
- Monthly Roll-Over: If you export more power than you consume in a single month (common in winter when ACs are off), the surplus units carry forward to the next month.
- Annual Settlement: At the end of the financial year, if you hold a net surplus, the DISCOM pays you at the Average Power Purchase Cost (APPC). This credit is added to your account ledger.
Group Net Metering & Virtual Net Metering (GNM/VNM)
Delhi is unique in allowing advanced metering frameworks, particularly useful for high-density housing:
- Group Net Metering: If you own a solar system on one property but have another electricity connection in Delhi (under the same DISCOM), you can import surplus credits from Property A to offset the bill at Property B.
- Virtual Net Metering: Designed for Group Housing Societies (CGHS). A large solar plant is installed on the common roof, and the energy generated is distributed virtually as credits across the individual apartment bills.
Sanctioned Load Limits
In Delhi, the maximum capacity of a rooftop solar plant cannot exceed 100% of the sanctioned load of your premises. If your sanctioned load is 4kW, you can install up to a 4kW inverter.