DERC Simplifies Rooftop Solar Net Metering Process, Tightens Timelines for Connectivity Approvals
The Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission has notified an amendment to net metering regulation for renewable energy to streamline rooftop solar net metering through a simplified two-stage approval process, fully online applications and stricter timelines for faster connectivity.
July 18, 2026. By Mrinmoy Dey
The amended guidelines came into effect on July 16, 2026, and will also apply to applications pending at any stage as well as new applications received thereafter, according to the DERC notification.
One of the key changes is the replacement of the existing three-stage application process – comprising feasibility analysis, registration and connection agreement – with a simplified two-stage mechanism. Under the revised framework, applicants will undergo Stage I: Technical Feasibility Analysis and Stage II: Integrated Document Verification, Inspection and Net Meter Installation, making the approval process more streamlined and efficient.
The Commission has also introduced two separate application routes. Domestic consumers applying under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana will continue to submit applications through the national PM Surya Ghar portal, while all other consumers, including commercial, industrial and domestic consumers not availing scheme benefits, will apply through the distribution licensee's designated online portal or the Delhi State Portal. Importantly, DERC has mandated that the entire process will now be conducted online, eliminating the need for any physical or offline submissions.
The amendment prescribes stricter timelines for distribution companies. Technical feasibility analysis must be completed within 15 days of receiving a complete application. However, no technical feasibility analysis will be required for renewable energy systems up to 10 kW on the same supply type, with feasibility deemed to have been granted automatically. Similarly, if the distribution licensee fails to communicate the outcome of the feasibility assessment within the stipulated period, the feasibility will also be deemed approved.
Following installation of the rooftop solar system, Stage II must be completed within 10 days. During this integrated stage, the distribution licensee will simultaneously verify documents and the single-line diagram, inspect and test the installed system, install the net meter, assign the registration number and grant connectivity. The Commission has further directed that any deficiencies or defects must be communicated through a single consolidated intimation, preventing multiple rounds of queries. Applicants will have 15 days to rectify deficiencies, after which the utility must complete the remaining process within five days. Minor deviations that do not impact safety or grid compatibility cannot be used as grounds to delay registration or connectivity, stated the DERC notification.
The guidelines also establish an overall processing timeline. Distribution companies must ensure connectivity within a cumulative period of 25 days for renewable energy systems above 10 kW and 10 days for systems up to 10 kW, excluding the time taken by applicants for installation and rectification of deficiencies.
In a move expected to encourage greater rooftop solar adoption, DERC has waived application fees for feasibility analysis for all domestic consumers installing rooftop solar systems up to 10 kW, irrespective of whether they avail benefits under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The Commission has similarly removed registration charges for the same category of consumers.
Another notable reform is the digitisation of the connection agreement process. Under the amended guidelines, the agreement between the consumer and the distribution licensee will be executed digitally through the applicable online portal during Stage II, eliminating the requirement for separate physical agreements. Domestic consumers with systems up to 10 kW can complete the process through an electronic acceptance mechanism, while larger or non-domestic consumers will be required to use electronic or digital signatures. The digitally executed agreement will be legally valid and binding under the Net Metering Regulations, 2014.
The amendments are aimed at reducing procedural delays, improving transparency, and creating a faster, fully digital approval process for rooftop solar consumers in Delhi.
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