Nagaland
The Nagaland Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has established comprehensive guidelines to promote the adoption of solar energy in the state. The NERC (Rooftop Solar Grid Interactive System Net/Gross Metering) Regulations, 2019 provide a framework for integrating rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with the state’s electricity grid, offering consumers both net and gross metering options.
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 within the settlement period (financial year).
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.
Gross Metering
Description:
- All energy generated by the rooftop solar system is exported to the grid and compensated at predetermined feed-in tariffs.
- Consumers do not use the generated solar power for self-consumption.
Eligibility:
- Suitable for consumers who prefer a consistent revenue stream from their solar installations.
Benefits:
- Provides a stable income through feed-in tariff compensation.
- Ideal for businesses or institutions looking to monetise solar power generation.
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.
Banking and Wheeling Charges
The rooftop solar systems under these regulations are exempted from all wheeling, cross-subsidy, transmission and distribution, and banking charges and surcharges.
LT and HT Tariff Structure in Nagaland (FY 2024–25)
| Category | Sub-category / Load | Fixed Charges | Energy Charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Domestic Consumers (LT) | 0–30 Units | N/A | ₹5.35/unit |
| 31–100 Units | N/A | ₹5.90/unit | |
| 101–250 Units | N/A | ₹6.50/unit | |
| Above 250 Units | N/A | ₹7.35/unit | |
| 2. Non-Domestic (Commercial) Consumers (LT) | 0–60 Units | N/A | ₹7.70/unit |
| 61–240 Units | N/A | ₹8.90/unit | |
| Above 240 Units | N/A | ₹9.30/unit | |
| 3. Industrial Consumers (LT) | Connected Load up to 25 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 Nagaland'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 NERC (Rooftop Solar Grid Interactive System Net/Gross Metering) Regulations, 2019 and the latest NERC tariff orders.
Note: This information is based on the NERC (Rooftop Solar Grid Interactive System Net/Gross Metering) Regulations, 2019, and NERC tariff schedule for FY 2023–24. Please consult official notifications or contact the Department of Power, Nagaland, for current updates.