The Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission (AERC) has issued draft guidelines to implement group net metering and virtual net metering frameworks for renewable energy systems. These guidelines aim to encourage the adoption of renewable energy by offering consumers greater flexibility.

The Commission has invited stakeholders to submit their comments and suggestions by October 3, 2024, before the guidelines come into effect.

Group net metering allows surplus energy generated from renewable energy systems or battery storage to be exported to the grid and distributed across multiple electricity connections for the same consumer. Virtual net metering offers a similar benefit but extends across participating consumers in the same distribution area.

These frameworks will be available to domestic consumers and institutions such as government offices, hospitals, and educational organizations. Eligible renewable energy systems must have a capacity ranging between 1 kW and 1 MW.

Participants must apply with a non-refundable fee of ?1,000 (~$11.93), with the process involving feasibility analysis, registration, and connection agreement stages. Renewable energy systems installed by March 31, 2024, will enjoy exemptions from wheeling, banking, and cross-subsidy charges.

The guidelines also stipulate that surplus energy will be compensated annually at the average power purchase cost rate.