Kumar Bahukhandi
Rooftop solar users in Chhattisgarh will soon earn credits for surplus electricity exported to the grid under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, following the implementation of the state’s buyback policy- Representational Image ( File Photo )
Excess Electricity Exported to the Grid to Be Purchased; Consumers to Receive Credits in Upcoming Power Bills
Raipur: In a major boost for rooftop solar users under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, consumers in Chhattisgarh will soon receive financial benefits for the surplus electricity generated by their rooftop solar systems.
The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has determined the buyback rate for excess solar power exported to the electricity grid during the financial year 2025–26. Following this, the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) has initiated the process of adopting the approved rate for implementation across the state.
According to officials from the Chhattisgarh State Power Companies, the proposal has been forwarded to the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission (CSERC) for final approval. Once the Commission grants its approval, consumers will begin receiving credits for the value of their surplus electricity in their subsequent electricity bills.
How the Net Metering System Works
The power distribution company explained that under the net metering mechanism, electricity generated by a rooftop solar plant is first adjusted against the consumer’s monthly electricity consumption.
If the solar system generates more electricity than the household consumes, the surplus power is automatically exported to the power grid. These excess units accumulate in the consumer’s account throughout the financial year.
At the end of the financial year, the remaining surplus units are purchased by the power distribution company at the approved buyback rate. The corresponding monetary value is then credited to the consumer’s account and reflected as an adjustment in future electricity bills.
Fresh Accounting Every Financial Year
To address common consumer queries, the power company clarified that the accounting of surplus electricity units begins afresh at the start of every financial year.
As a result, surplus units carried over from the previous financial year will not appear as energy units in the new electricity bill. However, consumers do not lose their benefits. Instead, the financial value of those units is securely retained and adjusted as bill credits in upcoming billing cycles.
Transparent Process to Benefit Solar Consumers
Officials stated that the entire process of surplus power adjustment and buyback under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is being implemented in accordance with the regulations of the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
The transparent mechanism is expected to provide direct financial benefits to thousands of rooftop solar consumers across the state while encouraging greater adoption of renewable energy.
The initiative also supports India’s clean energy goals by enabling households not only to reduce their electricity expenses but also to earn from the excess solar power they generate. With the buyback policy set to take effect after regulatory approval, rooftop solar systems are expected to become an even more attractive investment for households across Chhattisgarh.
