DHBVN Solar Net Metering Guide for Industrial & Commercial Consumers (2026)

TL;DR — Solar Net Metering for Haryana Industrial Consumers

• DHBVN net metering allows Haryana industrial and commercial rooftop solar owners to export surplus generation to the grid and receive credit on their electricity bill, settled monthly with annual reset every April.
• The net metering capacity limit is 1 MW per HT consumer or 100% of sanctioned load (whichever is lower). Systems between 1 MW and 2 MW must include 25% battery storage (2-hour duration).
• The application process runs through DHBVN's online portal (esolarconn.dhbvn.org.in), costs ₹1,000, and takes approximately 30–60 days from application to net metering connection order.
• Haryana offers total waiver of electricity duty, wheeling charges, cross-subsidy surcharge, and T&D charges for rooftop solar — making it one of India's most favourable industrial solar states.
• No building plan approval is required for rooftop solar installations.
• Combined with DHBVN HT industrial tariffs of ₹7.50–8.80/kWh, a 1 MW industrial rooftop solar plant achieves payback in 3.8–4.5 years and delivers a 25-year net IRR of 23–27%.

Why Net Metering Matters for Haryana Industrial Buyers

For a factory owner in Faridabad, Gurugram, Sonipat, or Panipat, net metering is the financial mechanism that makes rooftop solar viable. Here's how it works:

1. Your solar plant generates power during daylight hours — when your factory is running.
2. Self-consumption: solar power is consumed directly by your machines, offsets grid electricity at your full retail tariff (₹7.50–9.85/kWh depending on slab and Time-of-Day).
3. Excess export: when solar generation exceeds your instantaneous load (weekends, holidays, maintenance days), surplus flows to the DHBVN grid.
4. Energy banking: exported units are credited to your account and offset against future consumption. The net is calculated monthly; unadjusted surplus carries forward.
5. Annual settlement: every April, any remaining surplus is compensated at 75% of the last discovered SECI solar tariff (per HERC's 2nd Amendment 2025) — not at your retail tariff.

The bottom line: size your plant to match daytime consumption; treat export as a bonus, not the primary return driver.

Haryana's Net Metering Policy — What Makes It Exceptional

Haryana's net metering framework is among the most pro-industrial in India. Here's the regulatory landscape as of July 2026:

Capacity Limits

Battery Storage Mandate (1–2 MW)

For rooftop solar systems between 1 MW and 2 MW, HERC mandates 25% battery energy storage capable of delivering rated power for at least 2 hours. For a 1.5 MW plant, that means 375 kW / 750 kWh of BESS — adding approximately ₹45–65 lakh to the project capex. This BESS can also be leveraged for Time-of-Day arbitrage and demand-charge flattening, partially offsetting its cost. See our DG vs BESS comparison for the full analysis.

Charges and Exemptions

Surplus Compensation and Settlement

Per HERC's 2nd Amendment (finalized December 2025, effective from the FY26-27 settlement period):

• Surplus units are banked and netted monthly.
• Unadjusted credits carry forward within the April–March financial year.
• At each April reset, remaining surplus is compensated at 75% of the last discovered SECI solar tariff or a HERC-determined reference rate.
• Consumers who exit mid-year receive pro-rata compensation for unused credits.
• The old 90% annual generation cap has been eliminated — a significant win for industrial prosumers.

DHBVN Net Metering Application — Step-by-Step Process

The DHBVN application follows a structured 9-annexure workflow. Here's the end-to-end process, including what you need at each stage.

Pre-Application Checklist

Before starting the online application, gather:

1. Latest electricity bill — HT consumer number, sanctioned load, contract demand
2. Roof ownership documents — sale deed or lease agreement + landlord NOC if leased
3. Single-line diagram (SLD) of the proposed solar system
4. Module datasheets — ALMM-listed Tier-1 modules (Waaree, Adani, Vikram, Premier, Trina, Goldi, Tata Power Solar)
5. Inverter datasheets — Sungrow, Huawei, or equivalent
6. Structural stability certificate from a licensed structural engineer — confirming the roof can bear 12–15 kg/m² uniform load plus point loads
7. Electrical contractor licence of the executing agency
8. Company registration / GST certificate
9. Authorized signatory details — name, designation, phone, email, board resolution
10. Cancelled cheque or bank statement (for meter security deposit linkage)

Stage 1: Online Application Submission

Portal: esolarconn.dhbvn.org.in
Fee: ₹1,000 (non-refundable application processing fee)

1. Register on the DHBVN Solar Net Metering portal. If you already have a DHBVN SFA account, use that.
2. Complete Annexure-I (Application Form): system capacity, module type, inverter specifications, roof details, expected annual generation.
3. Upload documents: property papers, SLD, structural certificate, module/inverter datasheets, electrical contractor licence.
4. Pay ₹1,000 processing fee online.
5. You'll receive an E-Form number — save this. It's your application reference for all tracking.

Stage 2: Acknowledgement and Initial Scrutiny (5–10 working days)

After submission, the sub-divisional officer reviews your application:

• Annexure-II (Acknowledgement) is generated automatically.
• The SDO checks for completeness. Missing documents trigger an Observation Notice — you must resolve and resubmit.
• Typical scrutiny time: 5–10 working days if documentation is complete.

Pro tip from Sun Wave's DHBVN liaison team: The most common rejection reason is an incomplete or unprofessional single-line diagram. Submit a detailed SLD showing module strings, inverter placement, AC/DC protection, metering arrangement, and earthing. A hand-drawn sketch will be rejected.

Stage 3: Site Inspection and Verification (7–14 working days)

Once your application passes initial scrutiny:

• Annexure-III (Letter of Site Inspection): DHBVN schedules a site visit.
• A junior engineer (JE) or assistant engineer (AE) visits your premises to verify:
  • Roof area adequacy and structural suitability
  • Shadow analysis (no obstructions that would materially degrade generation)
  • Accessibility for meter installation and inspection
  • Electrical room readiness for inverter and bi-directional meter placement
• Annexure-IV (Certificate of Site Verification) is issued if the site passes.

Stage 4: Net Metering Authorisation (5–10 working days)

On successful site verification, DHBVN issues:

• Annexure-V (Authorisation for Net Metering Connection): formal permission to proceed with installation.

This is your green light — you may now begin physical installation.

Stage 5: Installation and Self-Certification

Install your rooftop solar system according to the approved SLD and specifications. After installation:

• Annexure-VII (Self-Certification Report): You (or your EPC contractor) certify that the installation conforms to the approved design, relevant IS/IEC standards, and electrical safety codes.
• This includes: module mounting, string configuration, inverter commissioning, AC/DC protection devices, earthing, and SCADA/monitoring setup.

Stage 6: Net Meter Connection Agreement (Annexure-VI)

Before the bi-directional meter is installed, you must execute the Net Meter Connection Agreement (Annexure-VI) with DHBVN. Key terms:

• 25-year agreement duration (aligned with solar plant life)
• Defines metering, billing, banking, and settlement terms
• Specifies safety and disconnection obligations
• Cross-references prevailing HERC regulations

Stage 7: Work Completion and Meter Installation (7–14 working days)

• Submit Annexure-VIII (Work Completion Report) through the portal — including commissioning test results, as-built SLD, and module serial number mapping.
• DHBVN inspects the completed installation and, if satisfied, installs the bi-directional meter.
• Meter cost: borne by the consumer (typically ₹15,000–25,000 for an HT-compatible bi-directional meter). DHBVN provides a list of empanelled meter suppliers (Annexure-XIV on the portal).
• Annexure-IX (Net Metering Connection Order) is issued — your plant is now grid-connected.

Stage 8: Synchronisation and Go-Live

• DHBVN's SDO/JE performs final synchronisation checks.
• The bi-directional meter is sealed and activated.
• Your solar plant begins exporting to the grid.

Timeline Summary

Total: approximately 90–120 days from application to grid-connected operation. Sun Wave's Faridabad-based DHBVN liaison team has consistently delivered approval timelines of 25–40 days for the pre-installation regulatory phases (Stages 1–4), compared to the 30–60 day standard.

Common Application Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Mistake 1: Incomplete or Unprofessional SLD

DHBVN engineers review SLDs daily. A single-line diagram missing protection devices, earthing detail, or string configuration will bounce back. Fix: Have your EPC contractor prepare a detailed, CAD-quality SLD before submission.

Mistake 2: Structural Certificate from an Unlicensed Engineer

The structural stability certificate must come from a licensed structural engineer registered with the municipal corporation or equivalent authority. A letter from your factory maintenance supervisor won't suffice. Fix: Verify the engineer's credentials before submission.

Mistake 3: Module Not on ALMM List

DHBVN checks modules against the MNRE ALMM (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers). If your modules aren't listed, the application is rejected. Fix: Use only ALMM-listed modules. Current Tier-1 ALMM brands include Waaree, Adani Solar, Vikram Solar, Premier Energies, Trina Solar, Goldi Solar, and Tata Power Solar.

Mistake 4: Ignoring the Distribution Transformer Capacity Cap

If the cumulative solar capacity on your local distribution transformer already exceeds 30% (for HT), your application will be rejected regardless of your sanctioned load. Fix: Check transformer loading before committing to a project. Your EPC contractor should verify this during feasibility.

Mistake 5: Submitting Before Roof Readiness

If the site inspection reveals roof repairs needed, significant shadow obstructions, or inadequate electrical room — DHBVN will defer authorisation until resolved. Fix: Complete roof repairs, clear shadow sources (HVAC ducts, water tanks), and prepare the electrical room before applying.

Industrial Solar Cost Benchmarks — Haryana (2026)

With net metering in place, the economics are compelling. Here are the current industrial rooftop solar EPC costs for Haryana:

Assumptions: ALMM Tier-1 modules, Sungrow/Huawei string inverters, HDG IS-2062 structures, 1,440–1,520 kWh/kWp annual yield (Faridabad/Gurugram irradiation), DHBVN HT-I tariff ₹7.50–8.80/kWh. BESS pricing assumes 25% / 2-hour LFP at ₹50–65 Lakh per 500 kWh incremental.

For the full cost breakdown, see our solar EPC cost per MW guide.

RESCO/OPEX Option — Zero Capex Net Metering

For Haryana factory owners who prefer not to deploy capital, the RESCO/OPEX model works seamlessly with DHBVN net metering:

• A solar developer (RESCO operator) owns the plant on your roof.
• You sign a 15–25 year Power Purchase Agreement at ₹4.40–5.20/kWh.
• Net metering credit flows to your DHBVN account — the PPA tariff is billed separately by the developer.
• Day-1 savings: 35–45% vs DHBVN HT-I tariff.
• Buy-out option typically from Year 7.

Sun Wave's Faridabad HQ offers CAPEX, RESCO, Open Access, and Group Captive — all four models. See our RESCO/OPEX solar model guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum solar capacity I can install under DHBVN net metering?

Up to 1 MW per HT consumer or 100% of your sanctioned load (whichever is lower). Between 1 MW and 2 MW, you must install 25% battery storage with a 2-hour duration. The cumulative solar capacity on your local distribution transformer must not exceed 30% for HT connections.

How much does the DHBVN net metering application cost?

The application processing fee is ₹1,000 (non-refundable). The bi-directional meter costs ₹15,000–25,000 (borne by consumer). There are no other DHBVN fees for net metering — remarkably, Haryana waives electricity duty, wheeling charges, cross-subsidy surcharge, and T&D charges for rooftop solar.

How long does DHBVN net metering approval take?

The pre-installation regulatory process (application through authorisation) typically takes 30–60 days. Sun Wave's DHBVN liaison team consistently achieves 25–40 days. Full go-live (including installation) is approximately 90–120 days from application.

What happens to my unused solar credits at year-end?

Per the HERC 2nd Amendment (2025), surplus energy credits carry forward within the April–March financial year. At each April reset, remaining surplus is compensated at 75% of the last discovered SECI solar tariff — not at your retail tariff. The old 90% annual generation cap has been eliminated.

Can I install solar on a leased factory premises?

Yes, with a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the landlord. The net metering connection is registered in the tenant's name if the lease term covers the solar plant's economic life. The landlord NOC must be notarised and submitted with the application.

Are commercial buildings required to install solar in Haryana?

Yes. All commercial complexes, offices, and malls with a connected load of 50 kW and above must install solar capacity equal to 3–5% of their connected load (mandatory under Haryana's solar policy). This applies to both existing and new buildings.

Does Haryana offer any additional incentives beyond net metering?

Beyond the total waiver of electricity duty, wheeling, cross-subsidy, and T&D charges — Haryana also exempts External Development Charges, Scrutiny Fee, and Infrastructure Development Charges for the operational period of the solar plant. For the national accelerated depreciation benefit (40% Year 1), see our solar accelerated depreciation guide.

What if my rooftop solar generation exceeds my sanctioned load?

Your system capacity cannot exceed 100% of your sanctioned load. If your generation momentarily exceeds your instantaneous consumption, the surplus is exported and credited under net metering. But you cannot install a system larger than your sanctioned load — this is a hard regulatory cap.

Can I combine rooftop net metering with open access solar?

Yes — many large industrial consumers use a hybrid approach: 1 MW rooftop under DHBVN net metering for captive consumption plus additional capacity through group captive open access from Rajasthan or UP solar parks. See our open access solar India guide and group captive solar guide.

Why choose Sun Wave Technologies for DHBVN net metering?

Sun Wave's Faridabad headquarters gives you direct, local DHBVN liaison capability: same-day site visits, established relationships with sub-divisional officers, and the shortest net metering approval timelines in NCR (25–40 days vs 30–60 standard). We handle the entire application process — you focus on your factory. 50+ MW commissioned across Haryana, Rajasthan, UP, and Gujarat industrial clients.

Sources

• DHBVN Solar Net Metering Portal — esolarconn.dhbvn.org.in
• HERC Rooftop Solar Grid Interactive Systems Regulations, 2021 (1st Amendment, 2024)
• HERC Rooftop Solar Regulations 2nd Amendment, 2025 — DHBVN Sales Circular D-23/2025
• Mercom India — Haryana Issues Draft Amendment to Rooftop Solar Rules, August 2025
• Energetica India — Haryana Proposes Amendments to Rooftop Solar Regulations, August 2025
• HERC Tariff Order FY 2026-27 (DHBVN HT-I tariffs)
• MNRE ALMM — Approved List of Models and Manufacturers

Sun Wave Technologies — Industrial & commercial solar EPC. Faridabad HQ. 50+ MW commissioned across Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Rajasthan, UP, and Gujarat.