The Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission (RERC) has issued an important order in a petition filed by the three electricity distribution companies (Discoms) of Rajasthan—Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd. (JVVNL), Ajmer Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd. (AVVNL), and Jodhpur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd. (JdVVNL). The petition was filed to seek amendments to the RERC (Grid Interactive Distributed Renewable Energy Generating Systems) Regulations, 2021. The Discoms requested changes to encourage the installation of rooftop solar systems in the state, especially under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, announced by the Prime Minister on 13th February 2024. The hearing took place on 27th February 2025, and the Commission issued its order on 7th March 2025.

The Discoms stated that they are actively promoting rooftop solar in Rajasthan through various initiatives like same-day load enhancement quick processing of payments and meter testing. However, they highlighted certain regulatory provisions that act as barriers for consumers. One such rule was Regulation 4.2, which disqualifies consumers with pending dues from applying for Net Metering or Net Billing under the existing regulations. The Discoms initially wanted this provision removed to allow more consumers to participate, even if they had outstanding dues. But later, they withdrew this request in their amended petition, citing financial risks.

The focus of the amended petition was on three specific relaxations. First, they requested a waiver of the application fee and security deposit required under Regulation 8.3 for domestic rooftop solar installations. Second, they asked to remove the requirement for a connection agreement as per Regulation 9, which they argued delays the process. Third, they requested a waiver of the meter testing charges mentioned in Regulation 11.6. According to the Discoms, these relaxations would encourage more residential consumers to install rooftop solar systems without causing financial issues for the utilities, especially since they receive substantial subsidies from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The Discoms reported that they had already received ₹155.43 crore in incentives over four years—₹76.24 crore for JVVNL, ₹74.30 crore for AVVNL, and ₹4.89 crore for JdVVNL.

After reviewing the submissions, the Commission agreed with the Discoms’ request. It invoked its power under Regulation 21 of the RERC DREGS Regulations, 2021, which allows the Commission to relax any regulation to promote renewable energy generation. The Commission ruled that waiving these fees and requirements would help implement the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana effectively and lead to reduced transmission losses, increased local employment, and other benefits for both consumers and the state.

The Commission’s order immediately waives the application fee and security deposit for domestic rooftop solar installations under Regulation 8.3. It also removes the requirement for a connection agreement under Regulation 9 and waives the meter testing charges under Regulation 11.6 for domestic consumers. This order will remain in effect until the state achieves its target of 5 lakh rooftop solar installations or any revised target set by the government.

The Discoms have been directed to implement this order and ensure it is widely communicated to the public. The petition has now been disposed of following these directions.