Assam
The Government of Assam introduced the Assam Renewable Energy Policy, 2022 to promote renewable energy adoption across the state. This policy establishes a clear roadmap for enhancing Assam’s renewable energy generation capacity with an emphasis on distributed solar systems, rooftop installations, and decentralised clean energy deployment.
Net Metering
Description:
- Allows consumers to generate solar energy primarily for self-consumption.
- Surplus energy exported to the grid is adjusted against the energy imported from the grid in the billing period.
- Excess generation after set-off is carried forward to the next billing cycle.
Eligibility:
- Available to all consumer categories, including residential, commercial, and industrial consumers.
Benefits:
- Reduces electricity bills by offsetting consumption with self-generated solar energy.
- Encourages self-sufficiency in energy consumption.
Net Billing
Description:
- Energy generated by the solar system is purchased by the Distribution Licensee at a predetermined tariff.
- Consumers continue to procure their electricity requirements from the Distribution Licensee as per existing tariffs.
Eligibility:
- Applicable to all consumer categories.
Benefits:
- Provides a revenue stream for consumers generating solar energy.
- Simplifies the process by treating generation and consumption separately.
Gross Metering
Description:
- All energy generated by the solar system is exported to the grid and compensated at feed-in tariffs.
- Consumers do not use generated solar power for self-consumption.
Eligibility:
- Large-scale solar producers.
Benefits:
- Ideal for businesses or institutions looking to monetise solar power generation.
- Provides a stable income through feed-in tariff compensation.
Group and Virtual Net Metering
Description:
- Group Net Metering: Energy exported by a shared solar installation is proportionally allocated to multiple beneficiaries.
- Virtual Net Metering: Allows consumers to generate solar energy from remote locations and receive credits on their electricity bills.
Eligibility:
- Housing societies, commercial groups, and institutions with capacities between 5 kWp and 500 kWp.
Benefits:
- Enables collective benefits for group members and remote solar setups.
- Reduces dependency on fossil fuels and supports energy sustainability.
Capacity Limits and Supply Voltage for LT and HT Consumers
LT Consumers:
- For systems up to 3 kW: Supply voltage is 230 V, Single Phase.
- For systems up to 112 kW: Supply voltage is 415 V, Three Phase.
HT Consumers:
- For systems up to 300 kVA: Supply voltage is 11 kV.
- For systems up to 10,000 kVA: Supply voltage is 33 kV.
Interconnection and Metering Arrangements for HT Consumers
- HT Consumers (11 kV & above) may install and connect Renewable Energy Based Power Plants at their LT Bus Bar System.
- The Net Meter must be installed on the HT side of the transformer.
Financial Incentives and Support
Exemptions
Projects are exempt from Electricity Duty for 10 years from the Commercial Operation Date (COD). Exemption from State-level Clean Energy Cess and any other surcharges as applicable.
Wheeling Charges
100% waiver of wheeling and transmission charges for captive use and open access within Assam for 5 years from COD.
Land Incentives
Government land may be allocated on lease at concessional rates for renewable energy projects. Fast-track clearance and single-window approval systems are facilitated by AREDA.
LT and HT Tariff Structure in Assam (FY 2024–25)
| Category | Sub-category / Load | Fixed Charges | Energy Charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Domestic Consumers (LT) | 0–120 Units | ₹25/month | ₹5.00/unit |
| Above 120 Units | ₹30/month | ₹6.50/unit | |
| 2. General Purpose (LT) | Load up to 20 kW | ₹50/kW/month | ₹6.00/unit |
| 3. Agriculture (LT) | ALL | ₹20/HP/month | ₹2.00/unit |
| 4. Industrial (LT) | Load up to 22 kW | ₹80/kW/month | ₹5.50/unit |
| 5. Domestic (HT) | 0–100 Units | ₹220/kVA/month | ₹5.00/unit |
| 101–300 Units | ₹5.80/unit | ||
| Above 300 Units | ₹6.20/unit | ||
| 6. Industrial (HT) | HTS-I (11/33 kV) | ₹250/kVA/month | ₹5.10/unit |
| HTS-II (132 kV and above) | ₹4.90/unit | ||
| 7. Commercial (HT) | ALL | ₹250/kVA/month | ₹6.00/unit |
Rebates & Penalties
- Prompt Payment Rebate: 1% if payment made within 7 days
- Delayed Payment Surcharge: 1.25%/month
- Power Factor Incentives: Up to 1% rebate for PF ≥ 0.95; penalties apply for PF < 0.85
Why Choose Assam's Solar Rooftop Policies?
Robust Metering Models
Net, gross, and virtual metering options.
Cost Efficiency
Waiver of charges and duties combined with subsidy support.
State Commitment
Assam’s policy supports self-reliance, job creation, and clean energy growth.
For detailed guidelines or to explore solar integration options, please refer to the official “Assam Renewable Energy Policy, 2022.”