Net metering is the part of a solar installation that most people understand least, yet it is what makes your bill go to zero. Here is how it actually works in Uttar Pradesh, in plain language.
What a net meter does
A normal meter only counts electricity coming in. A net meter counts both directions: units you take from the grid, and extra solar units your roof sends back. At billing time you pay only for the difference, the net. Generate more than you used, and the extra units carry forward as credit to your next bill.
Example: your home uses 300 units in a month. Your 3 kW system generates 360. You used solar power in the day, drew grid power at night, and exported the surplus. Net result: your bill shows zero payable units and about 60 units of credit.
Why skipping net metering is throwing money away
Without a net meter, every extra unit your panels make flows into the grid free, with zero compensation. For a 3 kW home system that can mean thousands of rupees of lost value every year. If someone offers you a solar installation without net metering, they are cutting a corner that costs you money for 25 years.
The process in UP, step by step
- Your PM Surya Ghar application is approved and the system is installed by an empanelled vendor.
- The vendor uploads the installation details and applies for the net meter on your behalf with the DISCOM (UPPCL in our region).
- The DISCOM inspects the installation: earthing, inverter standard, panel details, safety.
- The net meter is installed and sealed, replacing or joining your existing meter, and the system is officially commissioned.
- After commissioning, you submit the subsidy redemption request, and the money comes to your bank account, usually within 30 to 45 days.
What it costs
The DISCOM charges a one-time fee for the net meter and testing. In UP this is typically a few thousand rupees depending on meter type and connection. Be careful with quotes that hide this: we include the net metering charge transparently in every quotation so there are no surprises later.
Documents you will need
- Latest electricity bill with your consumer number
- Aadhaar card of the connection holder
- Passport-size photo
- Bank passbook or cancelled cheque (for the subsidy)
- Installation report from the empanelled vendor
Common delays and how we avoid them
Most net metering delays come from mismatched paperwork, the same name-mismatch issues that reject subsidy applications, or from inspection failures on earthing and wiring quality. We pre-check the paperwork and install to inspection standard the first time, which is why our commissioning usually completes within 2 to 4 weeks end-to-end.
Planning solar in Kushinagar, Deoria or Gorakhpur? We handle the entire net metering process for you. Start with the PM Surya Ghar guide or book a free site survey.
Want solar for your home or farm?
Free site survey across Kushinagar, Deoria & Gorakhpur. Up to ₹1,08,000 subsidy under PM Surya Ghar Yojana, complete paperwork handled by us.