🏛 Subsidy Guides
DISCOM Registration After Solar Installation 2026: What Happens Next and How to Complete It
Apply within30 days of install
Steps total7 after installation
Key documentCommissioning cert
Subsidy triggerAfter commissioning
MNRE helpline1800-180-3333
Why DISCOM registration matters after installation
Most people think the hard work is over once the solar panels are on the roof. It is not. The installation is actually the midpoint. After that comes the DISCOM registration process, which includes net metering application, technical inspection, bidirectional meter installation, and commissioning certificate. None of these happen automatically you or your installer have to initiate and follow up on each one.
This post-installation process is also what unlocks the PM Surya Ghar subsidy. Without the commissioning certificate that comes at the end of this process, the subsidy disbursement cannot even begin. Delays here directly delay your subsidy by the same number of days.
The complete post-installation process: all 7 steps
1
File the net metering application
Must be done within 30 days of installation completion. For PM Surya Ghar applicants this is filed through the portal. For non-scheme installations, apply directly to your DISCOM consumer section with the installation completion certificate from your installer.
Must be done within 30 days of installation completion. For PM Surya Ghar applicants this is filed through the portal. For non-scheme installations, apply directly to your DISCOM consumer section with the installation completion certificate from your installer.
2
DISCOM technical review
DISCOM engineers review the installation documentation. They check inverter specifications, system capacity, earthing standards, and whether the installer is empanelled. This review takes 3 to 10 working days in most states.
DISCOM engineers review the installation documentation. They check inverter specifications, system capacity, earthing standards, and whether the installer is empanelled. This review takes 3 to 10 working days in most states.
3
Schedule the site inspection
After technical review clears, a DISCOM inspector is assigned for a physical site visit. For PM Surya Ghar applicants, schedule via the portal dashboard. For others, coordinate with your DISCOM consumer section. Be home on the appointment date.
After technical review clears, a DISCOM inspector is assigned for a physical site visit. For PM Surya Ghar applicants, schedule via the portal dashboard. For others, coordinate with your DISCOM consumer section. Be home on the appointment date.
4
Physical site inspection
The inspector visits and checks: ALMM panel model, inverter specs, earthing, isolation switch, anti-islanding protection, and cable quality. Your installer should be present to answer technical queries. If everything passes, a clearance is issued.
The inspector visits and checks: ALMM panel model, inverter specs, earthing, isolation switch, anti-islanding protection, and cable quality. Your installer should be present to answer technical queries. If everything passes, a clearance is issued.
5
Bidirectional net meter installation
After inspection clearance, a DISCOM engineer visits to replace your existing single-direction meter with a bidirectional one. You pay the security deposit at this stage. Takes 5 to 21 working days after inspection clearance depending on state.
After inspection clearance, a DISCOM engineer visits to replace your existing single-direction meter with a bidirectional one. You pay the security deposit at this stage. Takes 5 to 21 working days after inspection clearance depending on state.
6
Commissioning certificate issued
After meter installation the DISCOM issues your commissioning certificate and uploads it to the portal. This is the document that officially declares your system operational and subsidy-eligible. Keep a copy.
After meter installation the DISCOM issues your commissioning certificate and uploads it to the portal. This is the document that officially declares your system operational and subsidy-eligible. Keep a copy.
7
Submit bank details and claim subsidy
Once the commissioning certificate appears on the portal, submit your Aadhaar-linked bank account details. The 30 working day subsidy disbursement clock officially starts from this point.
Once the commissioning certificate appears on the portal, submit your Aadhaar-linked bank account details. The 30 working day subsidy disbursement clock officially starts from this point.
What the inspector checks at site: be prepared
Many homeowners are surprised by the scope of the DISCOM inspection. It is not just a visual check of the panels it covers the entire system for grid safety compliance. Make sure your installer has addressed all of these before the inspection date:
✅
ALMM-listed panelsPanel model matches MNRE approved list. Certificate available on site.
✅
Grid-tied inverterInverter is approved for grid-tied operation with anti-islanding protection.
✅
Proper earthingSystem earthing meets IS standards. Inspector will test earth resistance.
✅
Isolation switchAC isolation switch installed between inverter and grid connection point.
❌
Poor cable managementLoose or unprotected DC cables are flagged. Conduit required for roof runs.
❌
Shading on panelsPanels installed in partial shade area may reduce assessed output and flag technical concerns.
State-wise timelines for post-installation registration
| State / DISCOM | Net Meter App to Inspection | Inspection to Meter Install | Total Post-Install Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gujarat (PGVCL / MGVCL) | 7-14 working days | 5-10 working days | 3-5 weeks |
| Delhi (BSES / TPDDL) | 14-21 working days | 7-14 working days | 5-7 weeks |
| Haryana (DHBVN / UHBVN) | 14-25 working days | 7-14 working days | 5-8 weeks |
| Rajasthan (JVVNL / AVVNL) | 14-30 working days | 10-21 working days | 6-10 weeks |
| Uttar Pradesh (UPPCL circles) | 21-45 working days | 14-30 working days | 8-16 weeks |
| Punjab (PSPCL) | 10-21 working days | 7-14 working days | 4-7 weeks |
If DISCOM is not responding: your escalation options
⚠️
The most common post-installation delay is DISCOM inspection scheduling. In busy urban circles, the wait can stretch to 45 working days. You do not have to wait passively. Written complaints to the consumer grievance cell are effective and often move things faster than phone calls.
Field observation · April 2026
If your net metering application was submitted and you have heard nothing for more than 30 working days, escalate via your DISCOM consumer grievance cell in writing. Include your application reference number, installation date, and installer name. For PM Surya Ghar applicants, the portal helpline at 1800-180-3333 is the first port of call. See the full escalation guide at how to escalate a DISCOM delay.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss the 30-day net metering application window?
You can still apply after 30 days but it may cause issues with your PM Surya Ghar subsidy claim, since MNRE expects the net metering application to follow installation promptly. File as soon as possible even if the window has passed, and include a written explanation of the delay when submitting to the DISCOM.
Does my installer handle DISCOM registration or do I have to do it?
This depends entirely on your agreement with the installer. Many established installers include DISCOM liaison as part of their service. Confirm this before signing the contract. Ask specifically whether net metering application filing, inspection coordination, and meter installation follow-up are included or charged separately.
Can I use my solar system before the net meter is installed?
Technically yes, the system generates electricity and your home uses it. But without the net meter, surplus power is wasted rather than exported to the grid. You also cannot claim PM Surya Ghar subsidy until the commissioning certificate is issued, which only happens after meter installation.
The DISCOM inspector raised a technical objection. What do I do?
The inspector will issue a written objection note specifying the exact issue. Share it with your installer immediately. Most technical issues like earthing or cable management can be resolved within a few days. Once fixed, request a re-inspection via the same channel used for the original booking. No fresh application is needed.
Is there a cost for DISCOM registration and net metering?
The net metering application itself has no processing fee under PM Surya Ghar. However, you pay a security deposit when the bidirectional meter is installed, typically Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 depending on your state and system size. Some DISCOMs also charge a meter testing fee, which varies by state.
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