Example 1
A normal month
Imported from the grid400 kWh
Exported to the grid150 kWh
Billed units250 kWh
You pay for 250 kWh instead of 400.
Net metering guide
Net metering, step by step
Use your solar power first, send the extra to the grid, and pay only for the difference. Here is the whole process in plain words.
Your bill
You pay only for the difference
Every month the utility reads one two-way meter. Power you send to the grid is taken off the power you bought.
Billed units = Imported − Exported + Credit
Credit that is still left at the end of the year (1 July – 30 June) is paid to you by the utility at the government's bulk rate.
Example 2
A sunny month
Imported from the grid200 kWh
Exported to the grid260 kWh
Billed units0 kWh
No energy charge. 60 kWh is saved as credit for next month (demand charge and VAT still apply).
Who can apply
Most grid customers can join
Any customer class
Low, medium, high and extra-high voltage customers, single-phase included.
New connections too
Apply with the tracking ID of your new-connection application.
Up to 100% of your load
Inverter output up to your full sanctioned load. Panels can be up to about 1.3 times the inverter size.
On your own premises
Roof, open space, boundary wall or floating — but inside your property.
The process
Six steps from application to credit
The utility decides each step. We prepare the design, install the system and help with the paperwork.
- 1
Apply online
We helpApply on the government net-metering portal with your customer account number.
- 2
Permission letter
The utility checks the application and replies within 10 working days.
- 3
Install the system
We do thisInstall within 8 months, using panels and inverters on SREDA's approved list.
- 4
Inspection
We helpApply for system evaluation from your dashboard. The utility inspects the installation.
- 5
Sign the contract
We helpWithin 15 working days of a passed inspection, you and the utility sign the agreement.
- 6
Two-way meter
Your meter is reprogrammed or replaced with a two-way net meter. Credits start.
Keep these ready
What you need to apply
- Electricity customer account number (on your bill)
- Mobile number and email address
- Scanned signature
- Tracking ID, if it is a new connection
Two ways to pay
Own it, or let an investor own it
CAPEX — you own it
You pay for the system (own money or bank loan) and keep all the savings. This is what we install.
OPEX — investor owns it
A third party installs and runs the system and sells you the power below the grid price, under a three-party contract.
Questions
Net metering FAQ
Is all my solar power sent to the grid?
No. Your building uses the solar power first. Only the extra goes to the grid.
Do I need a new meter?
Not always. If the utility can reprogram your meter to two-way, it is kept. Otherwise a new net meter is installed. Its location does not change.
How much roof do I need?
Roughly 7–10 m² (75–110 sq ft) per kWp, depending on the design. Our estimate shows the roof area for your size.
Which equipment is allowed?
Only solar panels and inverters on SREDA's approved list. We choose from that list.
Who approves my application?
Your electricity distribution utility. We help you through the process but cannot promise approval.
Checked on 1 October 2026Source: Net-metering portal FAQ and Net Metering Guideline 2025, Power Division.
The utility makes the final decision on every application. We help you understand the process; we do not promise approval.
Planning solar or electrical work?
Get a solar estimate in two minutes, or talk to an engineer about your project today.