Maharashtra Regulatory Commission Addresses Rooftop Solar Billing Issues
A petition filed with the MERC seeks clarity on rooftop solar billing and AC capacity verification.
Petition filed on April 13, 2026, addresses rooftop solar consumer billing issues.
MERC allows comments on draft regulations for rooftop solar systems.
Key concerns include AC capacity verification and generation meter responsibilities.
A recent petition submitted to the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has raised important questions regarding the billing practices for rooftop solar consumers and the verification of installed air conditioning (AC) capacity. Filed on April 13, 2026, by Sudhir Sukharup Budhay, the petition aims to clarify operational issues related to the implementation of rooftop solar regulations in the state.
The petition specifically requests guidance from the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) on three critical aspects: the migration process for existing rooftop solar consumers between different regulatory and billing frameworks, the methodology for accurately determining and verifying the AC capacity of installed rooftop solar systems, and the responsibilities regarding the provision, installation, testing, and reading of generation meters.
During an e-hearing on August 6, 2026, MSEDCL contended that the petition resembled a public interest litigation and was therefore not suitable for consideration by the commission. However, in a follow-up submission on August 29, 2026, Budhay argued that the matter should be treated as a regulatory petition under the Electricity Act of 2003, emphasizing the commission's authority to address these implementation-related issues.
The MERC has acknowledged the petition and noted that it is currently reviewing the existing regulatory framework. The commission has published draft regulations for Grid Interactive Rooftop Renewable Energy Generating Systems, 2026, inviting comments and suggestions from stakeholders. These proposed regulations are designed to replace the current framework, potentially offering clearer guidelines for rooftop solar installations in Maharashtra.
While the MERC's order does not resolve the substantive issues raised in the petition regarding consumer migration, AC capacity verification, or generation meter responsibilities, it encourages the petitioner to engage in the regulatory consultation process. The final regulations will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to voice their concerns and seek clarity on the operational framework governing grid-connected rooftop solar systems in the state.
