MERC Approves Grid Connectivity For Isolated 1.36 MW Rooftop Solar Plant

Based on its findings the Commission plans to amend existing regulations/frame new regulations for net metering.

The Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has approved the grid-connectivity requests for a 1.36 MW rooftop solar PV power project by the Supreme Industries Limited.

The company had filed a petition regarding the forceful isolation of its 1.36 MW rooftop solar PV power project for captive use, connected with an internal bus of 415 V.

The petitioners made the following requests to the commission,

i. To direct MSEDCL to allow restoration of solar power generation of capacity 1.36 MW for self-use in the same premises at LT 415V level.

ii. To allow adding further capacity of Captive Solar Power Generation up to 5.0 MW to connect at LT 415V side after taking all precautions to avoid reverse flow of power to the grid.

iii. To direct the MSEDCL to compensate the loss suffered due to illegal instructions for isolation of the solar- approximate loss suffered so far is Rs.65.18 lakh.

The commission in its ruling has directed MSEDCL to desist from any action against the petitioner and allow connectivity to 1.36 MW rooftop solar PV project at LT internal bus. It has also stated that any further expansion beyond 1.36 MW by the petitioner is allowed but it will be at its own risk, cost and subject to adherence to safety norms.

While examining the petition, the MERC observed that the existing provisions of the net metering and open access regulations do not permit the relief sought and this case does not fall under the purview of the existing regulations.

It also noted that the technical issues with the grid connectivity at low tension (LT) level of co-located solar PV projects and its financial impact on the distribution licensees need to be addressed. Parameters for grid security for connecting solar projects for captive use beyond the point of supply of consumer would need to be evolved after detailed deliberations with the stakeholders.

The commission further noted that same relief cannot be granted under two different regulations, there is a need to revisit this issue holistically through framing a new set of regulations after following a consultation process.

“The Commission will club the issue of getting connectivity to the internal LV bus in case of captive co-located generating plants in the Consultative Public Process in respect of amending the Net Metering Regulations, 2015 / framing new Regulations as recently ruled by the Commission in Case No. 20 of 2019,” stated in its order.

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