Solar Net Metering in India — State-by-State Guide 2026
Net metering allows rooftop solar owners to sell excess electricity back to the grid. Rules, feed-in tariffs, and processes vary significantly by state. Here's everything you need to know.
How Net Metering Works
- Your solar panels generate electricity during the day
- Excess generation flows into the grid — your meter runs backwards
- At night or cloudy days, you draw from the grid
- Month-end: net units (generated minus consumed) are calculated
- If positive (net exporter): credited at feed-in tariff rate
- If negative (net consumer): you pay only for the difference
State-Wise Net Metering Details 2026
| State | DISCOM | Feed-in Tariff | Max System Size | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maharashtra | MSEDCL | ₹2.50–3.50/unit | Up to sanctioned load | 30–45 days |
| Gujarat | UGVCL/DGVCL/MGVCL/PGVCL | ₹2.25–3.00/unit | Up to 1 MW | 21–30 days |
| Karnataka | BESCOM/MESCOM/HESCOM | ₹3.56/unit | Up to 500 kW | 21–30 days |
| Delhi | BSES/Tata Power | ₹3.00–4.00/unit | Up to 500 kW | 21–30 days |
| Tamil Nadu | TANGEDCO | ₹2.25/unit | Up to 1 MW | 30–45 days |
| Telangana | TSSPDCL/TSNPDCL | ₹2.00–3.50/unit | Up to 500 kW | 30–45 days |
| Rajasthan | JVVNL/JDVVNL/AVVNL | ₹2.50/unit | Up to 1 MW | 21–30 days |
| Uttar Pradesh | UPPCL | ₹2.50–3.50/unit | Up to 500 kW | 30–45 days |
| Haryana | DHBVN/UHBVN | ₹3.00/unit | Up to 500 kW | 30–45 days |
| Punjab | PSPCL | ₹3.00–3.50/unit | Up to 1 MW | 21–30 days |
Net Metering Application Process (General)
- Install solar with DISCOM-empanelled installer
- Installer submits application to DISCOM on your behalf (most do this)
- DISCOM site inspection
- Bidirectional meter installation (free in most states)
- Grid synchronization and commissioning
- First billing cycle with net metering begins
What Documents Are Needed?
- Solar installation completion certificate
- Electrical safety certificate from licensed electrician
- Copy of electricity bill
- Copy of property documents
- Single-line diagram of the system
Important Rules to Know
- System size typically limited to your sanctioned load or 90% of it
- Only on-grid and hybrid systems qualify (not off-grid)
- Net metering credits usually expire at year-end — no cash payout in most states
- Karnataka has the highest feed-in tariff in India (₹3.56/unit)