Tripura
The Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission (TERC) has introduced the Draft TERC (The Grid Interactive Solar Rooftop Photovoltaic System under Gross/Net Metering) Regulation, 2024 to promote the adoption of solar energy in the state. This regulation aims to provide a structured framework for integrating rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with the state’s electricity grid, offering consumers options for both net and gross metering arrangements.
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 above 112 kW and up to 2 MW: Supply voltage is 11 kV or higher, depending on the utility's infrastructure and consumer requirements.
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 or Gross Meter must be installed on the HT side of the transformer to accurately measure energy transactions.
Financial Incentives and Support
Subsidies and Incentives
Central and state government subsidies may be available for the installation of rooftop solar PV systems, reducing the initial investment cost.
Wheeling and Banking
Provisions for wheeling and banking of energy are available as per TERC regulations, facilitating energy management for consumers with solar installations.
LT and HT Tariff Structure in Tripura (FY 2024–25)
| Category | Sub-category / Load | Fixed Charges | Energy Charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Domestic Consumers (LT) | 0–50 Units | ₹20/month | ₹2.85/unit |
| 51–150 Units | ₹25/month | ₹4.00/unit | |
| Above 150 Units | ₹30/month | ₹5.20/unit | |
| 2. Commercial Consumers (LT) | Connected Load up to 20 kW | ₹50/kW/month | ₹6.50/unit |
| 3. Industrial Consumers (LT) | Connected Load up to 20 kW | ₹60/kW/month | ₹5.75/unit |
| 4. Agricultural Consumers (LT) | ALL | ₹15/HP/month | ₹1.50/unit |
| 5. HT Consumers (11 kV and above) | Industrial and Commercial | ₹250/kVA/month | ₹5.00/unit |
| Bulk Supply | ₹200/kVA/month | ₹4.75/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 Tripura's Solar Rooftop Policies?
Flexible Metering Options
Consumers can choose between net and gross metering based on their energy consumption patterns and financial considerations.
Financial Benefits
Subsidies and incentives reduce the cost of solar installations, and favorable tariffs enhance the return on investment.
Sustainability
Adopting solar energy contributes to environmental sustainability and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.
For detailed guidelines or to explore solar integration options, please refer to the Draft TERC Regulations 2024 and latest tariff orders from the Tripura Electricity Regulatory Commission.