BERC Introduces Amendments to Accelerate Rooftop Solar Uptake

The Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (BERC) has taken a significant step towards enhancing rooftop solar energy adoption by initiating proceedings for the issuance of the Bihar Electricity Regulatory Commission (Rooftop Solar Grid Interactive Systems Based on Net and Gross Metering) (First Amendment) Regulation, 2024.

In an effort to gather input from the public and stakeholders, the Commission has opened the floor for written comments, suggestions, and objections on the draft regulations. The deadline for submission is June 20, 2024. Additionally, interested individuals, organisations, and companies are invited to participate in a Public Hearing scheduled for June 25, 2024, at 11:30 A.M., where they can present oral or written arguments.

This initiative follows the earlier notification of regulations in 2018, which aimed to streamline the integration of rooftop solar grid interactive systems based on net and gross metering. The proposed amendment seeks to make several changes to the existing regulations to further facilitate the adoption of renewable energy.

Key amendments include a requirement for distribution licensees to issue guidelines and procedures for net or gross metering connectivity within three months of the new regulation's publication. These guidelines must ensure timely completion of technical feasibility studies for rooftop solar photovoltaic systems, with a presumption of technical feasibility if the study is not completed within fifteen days. Additionally, applications for rooftop solar photovoltaic systems up to 10 kW capacity that are complete in all respects will be automatically accepted without a technical feasibility study. Any necessary enhancement of the consumer’s sanctioned load will be facilitated by the distribution licensee.

These amendments aim to accelerate the adoption of rooftop solar in the state by reducing the time needed for technical approvals and enhancing the overall process. By actively engaging with stakeholders and simplifying the approval procedure, BERC amendments are intended to pave a clearer path towards a greener future.