- CSERC has issued a clarification order on its Group Net Metering and Virtual Net Metering guidelines following concerns from the state distribution utility.
- The order provides clear rules on installation locations, billing priorities, technical responsibility and interpretation to support renewable energy deployment.
The Chhattisgarh State Electricity Regulatory Commission has issued a clarification order on January 21, 2026, on its 2022 rules for Group Net Metering and Virtual Net Metering. The Commission acted through a suo motu petition after the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company raised concerns about technical ambiguities in the earlier rules. The order aims to guide the utility and consumers and support the proper rollout of renewable energy policies in the state.
The utility questioned the physical location requirement for systems under Group Net Metering. The Commission clarified that GNM systems must be co-located with at least one of the consumer’s existing service connections. The Commission explained that the use of a “Net Meter” requires a physical connection to a qualified service location. This clarification removes installation uncertainty and strengthens compliance.
The Commission offered a different interpretation for Virtual Net Metering. It reaffirmed an earlier order from November 2025 and confirmed that VNM systems do not need to be on the same premises as the consumers. This decision allows installations at remote sites while enabling apartment complexes and similar buildings to claim the generated energy. The clarification sets a clear distinction between GNM and VNM.
The utility also sought clarity on billing across multiple tariff categories. The Commission noted that consumers may already set a priority order for energy set-off under the rules. Consumers may revise this priority once per financial year with two months’ notice. This feature supports more flexible billing and energy management.
The order addressed inconsistencies between the Hindi and English versions of the VNM definition. The Hindi text mentioned only surplus energy, while the English text referred to the entire energy generated. The Commission ruled that the English version will prevail in case of conflict. This decision ensures consistency in interpretation.
The utility raised concerns about transformer augmentation for high-tension consumers. The Commission stated that HT consumers must purchase, install and maintain their own transformers, including capacity upgrades. The utility’s responsibility ends at the point of supply, specifically at the meter and its associated equipment.
The clarification order provides a clear framework for GNM and VNM implementation in Chhattisgarh. It reduces the risk of disputes between consumers and the utility and supports the state’s efforts to expand renewable energy adoption.