HPERC proposes simpler rooftop solar application process
The Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (HPERC) has issued draft amendments to the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (Rooftop Solar PV Grid Interactive System) Regulations, 2015, proposing changes aimed at simplifying rooftop solar adoption and reducing procedural requirements for consumers.
The proposed Fourth Amendment Regulations, 2026, seek to streamline the application process and remove the requirement for executing a separate net metering agreement. The changes have been proposed following observations issued by the Ministry of Power, Government of India, in August 2025 regarding the implementation of rooftop solar schemes under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.
Background
In its communication to states and utilities, the Ministry of Power had recommended that distribution utilities adopt consumer-friendly measures to support wider rooftop solar deployment. Among its suggestions was the removal of separate Net Metering Agreements and their replacement with a digital agreement integrated into the online application process.
The ministry also advised utilities to minimise procedural complexities to facilitate faster adoption of rooftop solar systems under the central scheme.
Proposed changes
Under the draft regulations, HPERC has proposed substituting Regulation 7(1) to expand the modes through which eligible consumers can submit applications for rooftop solar installations.
Consumers would be allowed to submit applications through post, hand delivery or electronic means, including online portals and email, using Form-1 or any other format prescribed by central or state government agencies for rooftop solar schemes.
The amendment would also require distribution licensees to make Form-1 available on their websites and at authorised offices, while processing applications through online platforms as far as possible.
HPERC has also proposed amending Regulation 7(3) to provide for a digital Solar Metering Connection Agreement. Under the proposal, distribution licensees would accept a digital agreement incorporated into the online application forms made available through central or state government portals used for implementing rooftop solar programmes.
The amendment would effectively eliminate the need for consumers to execute a separate net metering agreement as part of the approval process.
Consultation process
The draft Fourth Amendment Regulations, 2026, have been published in the Rajpatra, Himachal Pradesh. HPERC has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders and other affected parties within 30 days from the date of publication.
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