Under the new framework, prosumers enjoy the same rights as regular electricity consumers and can install rooftop solar either independently or through service providers under the RESCO or ULA models, on a first-come, first-served basis. System capacity cannot exceed the consumer’s sanctioned load or contract demand. Prosumers may opt for net metering, net billing, or gross metering, and can integrate battery storage.

Applications must be submitted online, though hard copies are accepted. Fees are fixed at Rs 1,000 for low and medium voltage consumers and Rs 5,000 for high and extra-high voltage connections. Systems up to 10 kW are deemed technically feasible without a study, while larger systems require feasibility checks within 15 days. Installation must be completed within 180 days of clearance, extendable by 90 days.

Distribution licensees must publish detailed procedures on their websites, provide model agreements, and set up an online portal within one month of the regulations taking effect. They are responsible for testing, installing, and maintaining meters, ensuring government incentives reach prosumers, and publishing quarterly reports on capacity additions and pending applications.

Technical standards include mandatory anti-islanding protection, NABL-accredited certification for harmonics and power quality, and compliance with Central Electricity Authority norms. Battery-backed systems must prevent grid discharge during outages.

For metering, net and net billing systems require a net meter plus a generation meter, while gross metering requires two separate meters. All must support Advanced Metering Infrastructure. Costs are borne by prosumers, though they may procure meters if specifications match requirements.

Energy generated counts towards Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs). For obligated entities, consumption offsets their own RPO; surplus and gross generation count towards the licensee’s RPO.

Feed-in tariffs will be set by WBERC for net billing and gross metering, based on power purchase costs, losses, and other factors, and will apply for 25 years. Surplus energy credits are carried forward within the settlement period but reset to zero at year-end.

The Commission has also set annual installation limits for WBSEDCL, CESC, DVC, and IPCL for 2025-26 and 2026-27, to be reviewed every six months.