What net metering means
A bi-directional meter records the energy you draw from the grid and the energy you send back. Your solar plant supplies your building first. When the plant produces more than you use, the surplus flows to the grid and is recorded. In Karnataka, BESCOM pays for that surplus at a tariff fixed in your agreement.
Net metering, gross metering and net billing
KERC's tariff order covers all three. With net metering, you use your own generation and sell only the surplus. With gross metering and net billing, arrangements differ, and the tariff applies as set in the order. Most homes and businesses choose net metering because the plant offsets their own consumption.
How to apply
BESCOM's solar rooftop portal (srtpv.bescom.org) hosts the applications. There is a non-subsidy route, routes for virtual and group net metering, and a route for PM Surya Ghar subsidy cases. For subsidy cases, register on pmsuryaghar.gov.in first and then submit on BESCOM's portal with the registration reference.
Rates for surplus units
The order dated 25 August 2026 fixes the rate for new applications for a 25-year agreement. A home system without subsidy gets ₹3.89 per unit. Subsidised home systems get ₹1.96, ₹2.14 or ₹2.58 per unit depending on size. Other net-metered plants from 1 to 1,000 kW get ₹3.11 with DCR modules or ₹2.34 with non-DCR modules. See the full table in our subsidy guide.
After commissioning
Your bill will show imported units, exported units and the net position. Check the first few bills against your inverter's generation figures. If anything looks off, ask BESCOM's sub-division and note your application number.
Practical tips
- Register the application before you start installation.
- Keep your electricity account details, sanctioned load and owner details ready.
- Plan the system size around your sanctioned load.
- Ask your installer who will track the application.
- Watch rule changes: KERC issued new regulations in August 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Does net metering work during a power cut?
A standard on-grid inverter switches off when the grid fails, for the safety of line staff. A hybrid system with a battery can supply backup loads.
Can I change my metering arrangement later?
Rules on switching vary. Ask the BESCOM sub-division and read the current KERC regulations before you plan on it.
Keep reading
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