Net metering is the mechanism that converts your rooftop solar installation into monthly bill savings. Without a net meter, your solar system generates electricity, but any surplus during the day is wasted rather than credited. Applying for and getting the net meter installed is one of the most important steps in the solar journey, and it is also the step most likely to experience delays.

What happens during the net metering process

After your solar system is installed, your existing single-direction electricity meter needs to be replaced with a bidirectional net meter. This meter records both electricity imported from the grid and electricity exported to the grid.

The application for this meter replacement goes to your DISCOM. A DISCOM technician inspects the installation to verify it meets safety and technical standards, then the meter replacement is carried out. After that, your DISCOM issues a commissioning certificate confirming the system is live on net metering.

Who files the net meter application?

In most states, your installer is expected to file the net meter application with your DISCOM on your behalf. This is part of the standard service for a PM Surya Ghar-compliant installation.

Confirm with your installer before signing the agreement that the net meter application is included in their scope of work. If it is not, clarify whether you file it directly with the DISCOM or through a third party.

Documents typically required for net meter application

Requirements vary by DISCOM but generally include:

• Completed net metering application form (your DISCOM’s form, available on their website or at their office)
• Copy of the solar system installation invoice with panel and inverter details
• Single-line diagram of the solar installation (your installer prepares this)
• Technical specification sheets for panels and inverter
• Photographs of the installed system including panels, inverter, and mounting structure
• Copy of your electricity bill (confirming consumer number and connection category)
• Copy of property ownership documents (some DISCOMs require this)
• Copy of the feasibility approval from the PM Surya Ghar portal

State-wise net metering application process

Rajasthan (JVVNL / AVVNL / JdVVNL): Application submitted by installer to the DISCOM’s subdivision office. Urban areas like Jaipur typically have 3 to 6 weeks from application to meter installation. RRECL can assist with escalations.

Maharashtra (MSEDCL): Application submitted through MSEDCL’s consumer portal or at the divisional office. Urban areas typically 4 to 8 weeks. MSEDCL has a dedicated solar consumer helpline.

Gujarat (DGVCL / MGVCL / PGVCL / UGVCL): Application at the DISCOM’s sub-division office. Gujarat DISCOMs have been among the faster processors nationally, with urban installations typically 2 to 5 weeks.

Delhi (BSES / TPDDL / NDMC): Application to the specific DISCOM. TPDDL tends to be faster than BSES. Urban Delhi typically 3 to 8 weeks. NDMC consumers follow a separate process.

Karnataka (BESCOM): Application at BESCOM’s subdivision or directly through the online solar consumer portal. Bengaluru urban typically 4 to 7 weeks.

Tamil Nadu (TANGEDCO): TANGEDCO requires both a net meter and a separate solar generation meter. Application at the section office. Chennai typically 4 to 8 weeks.

Uttar Pradesh (PVVNL / DVVNL / MVVNL / Purvanchal / KESCo): Variable across the five DISCOMs. Urban areas of Noida and Lucknow tend to be faster. Budget 4 to 12 weeks.

Telangana (TSSPDCL / TSNPDCL): Application at the divisional office. Hyderabad urban typically 4 to 8 weeks.

Haryana (UHBVN / DHBVN): Application at the DISCOM’s subdivision. Gurugram and Faridabad (DHBVN) tend to be faster. 4 to 8 weeks typical.

How to follow up effectively

After filing the application, request a written acknowledgement with a reference number. This is your evidence of filing date.

After 3 weeks with no update, call your DISCOM’s solar helpdesk quoting your application reference number. Note the name of the person you spoke to and the date.

After 5 to 6 weeks with no meter installation scheduled, send a written follow-up email or letter to your DISCOM’s divisional engineer. Reference your consumer number, application ID, installation date, and request a specific date for meter installation.

After 8 weeks with no resolution, file a grievance on the PM Surya Ghar portal and with your state electricity regulatory commission’s consumer grievance cell.

After the net meter is installed

Within a few days of meter installation, your DISCOM issues a commissioning certificate. This document is essential for two purposes: it activates your net metering credits from that date, and it is the document you upload to the PM Surya Ghar portal to claim your central subsidy.

Verify the meter is correctly programmed by checking your first post-installation bill. It should show both import and export readings. If only import is shown, contact your DISCOM immediately.

Summing up

The net metering application is filed by your installer after installation and processed by your DISCOM. The timeline is the most variable part of the entire solar journey, ranging from 2 weeks in efficient Gujarat DISCOMs to 3 months or more in slower rural divisions. Active follow-up with written communication is the most effective tool for keeping the process moving.