The Jharkhand State Electricity Regulatory Commission (JSERC) has introduced guidelines for group net metering and virtual net metering within the state.
These regulations are anticipated to contribute to the objectives laid out in the Jharkhand State Solar Policy 2022. The JSERC (Group Net Metering and Virtual Net Metering) Regulations, 2024, will come into effect upon their publication in the Jharkhand state government gazette. As per the draft, the group and virtual net metering frameworks are applicable to all eligible consumers, except those with outstanding arrears with the distribution licensee. Land allocation follows JSERC (Electricity Supply Code) Regulations, 2015. The distribution licensee must conduct a technical assessment of the renewable energy system’s impact on the distribution system within seven days of application submission. Feasibility approval is granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Connection agreements must finalize project installation within six months, with possible extensions granted by the discom on a case-by-case basis. Renewable energy meters must be installed at generation points for remote reading, following JSERC regulations. In group net metering, excess energy is reconciled against other service connections, with surplus credits refunded at a sanctioned rate. In virtual net metering, participating connections receive credits based on specified procurement ratios, with excess units rolled over and reimbursement provisions. Discom officials have authority for regular inspections of renewable energy systems to ensure compliance and system integrity. Exemptions from certain charges and facilitation of renewable purchase obligations and certificate mechanisms are provided for qualifying generators.