Gujarat Open Access Solar Charges FY 2026-27: Wheeling, CSS

Direct Answer: Gujarat Open Access Solar Charges for FY 2026-27

For FY 2026-27, Gujarat's open access solar charges are structured across five key components: wheeling charges of ₹0.2352 per unit (HT 11 kV, 22 kV, 33 kV levels), cross-subsidy surcharge of ₹1.33 per kWh for commercial and industrial consumers, additional surcharge of ₹0.76 per kWh (applicable April to September 2026), GETCO transmission charges (approved in the GERC tariff order dated 25 March 2026), and SLDC scheduling/deviation charges. The Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC) issued its FY 2026-27 tariff orders on 25 March 2026, keeping base energy tariffs flat while raising wheeling charges by 14.6 percent and cross-subsidy surcharge by 3.1 percent year-over-year. For a typical HT industrial consumer sourcing solar through third-party open access, the total open access charges (wheeling plus CSS plus additional surcharge plus transmission) add approximately ₹2.50 to ₹3.50 per unit on top of the solar PPA price, but still deliver 30 to 40 percent savings compared to grid power at ₹7.50 to ₹8.50 per unit landed cost.

The bottom line is that Gujarat's open access solar framework remains highly cost-competitive for industrial consumers in FY 2026-27, with the slight increase in CSS and wheeling charges offset by reduced wheeling losses (down to 6.5 percent) and a lower additional surcharge (down from ₹1.00 to ₹0.76 per kWh).

Key Takeaways: What You'll Learn

• Wheeling charges: ₹0.2352 per unit at HT levels (11 kV, 22 kV, 33 kV); ₹1.11 per unit at LT (400V) level—up 14.6 percent and 14 percent respectively year-over-year
• Cross-subsidy surcharge (CSS): ₹1.33 per kWh for all commercial and industrial consumers—up 3.1 percent from ₹1.29 per kWh
• Additional surcharge: ₹0.76 per kWh for April to September 2026—reduced from ₹1.00 per kWh in the prior period
• Wheeling losses: Reduced to 6.5 percent from 7.25 percent, meaning more energy reaches the consumer meter
• Green Power Tariff: Reduced to ₹0.75 per kWh from ₹0.90 per kWh
• Banking charges: ₹1.50 per unit under GERC Green Energy Open Access Regulations (Fifth Amendment), 2026, effective until 31 August 2026
• Captive exemption: Captive generating plants meeting statutory requirements are exempt from CSS and additional surcharge
• CSS cap for renewable energy: Cross-subsidy surcharge for green energy open access shall not increase by more than 50 percent of the surcharge fixed in the year open access is granted, during 12 years from the date of plant operation

To summarize, this guide provides a complete voltage-wise breakdown of every open access charge applicable to Gujarat solar projects in FY 2026-27, with landed cost calculations and captive treatment analysis.

Verified Charge Table: Gujarat Open Access Solar FY 2026-27

This means the total open access charge stack for a typical HT industrial solar OA consumer in Gujarat is approximately ₹2.50 to ₹3.50 per unit, depending on voltage level and captive status.

Open Access Charge Components Explained

1. Wheeling Charges

Wheeling charges compensate the distribution licensee for use of its network to transport electricity from the generator to the consumer. In Gujarat, GERC determines wheeling charges annually through the DISCOM tariff orders using an allocation matrix that segregates the wires business from the retail supply business.

For FY 2026-27:

• HT level (11 kV, 22 kV, 33 kV): ₹0.2352 per unit (increased from ₹0.20 per unit)
• LT level (400V): ₹1.11 per unit (increased from ₹0.97 per unit)

The significant difference between HT and LT wheeling rates reflects the higher per-unit cost of using the low-voltage distribution network, which involves more transformer stages and greater infrastructure per unit of energy delivered.

GERC also approved a reduction in wheeling losses from 7.25 percent to 6.50 percent for FY 2026-27. This means that for every 100 units injected into the grid at the generator end, 93.5 units reach the consumer meter (compared to 92.75 units previously). For a 1 MW solar project, this 0.75 percent improvement translates to thousands of additional delivered units annually, partially offsetting the wheeling charge increase.

The bottom line is that while wheeling charges increased marginally, the reduced wheeling losses mean the net impact on delivered energy cost is nearly neutral for most HT consumers.

2. Cross-Subsidy Surcharge (CSS)

The cross-subsidy surcharge is a fee paid by open-access consumers to compensate DISCOMs for the loss of high-paying commercial and industrial customers. The rationale is that C and I consumers cross-subsidise agricultural and residential consumers through higher tariffs; when they exit the DISCOM system via open access, the DISCOM loses this cross-subsidy revenue.

For FY 2026-27:

• CSS for all C and I consumers: ₹1.33 per kWh (increased from ₹1.29 per kWh, a 3.1 percent YoY increase)

The CSS is determined by GERC in accordance with the Electricity Act, 2003, and the Tariff Policy notified by the Ministry of Power. The surcharge shall not exceed 20 percent of the Average Cost of Supply.

Important exemption for renewable energy: Under the GERC Green Energy Open Access Regulations, 2024, the cross-subsidy surcharge for green energy open access consumers purchasing from renewable energy generating plants shall not increase by more than 50 percent of the surcharge fixed for the year in which open access is granted, during 12 years from the date of operation of the generating plant. This provides long-term cost predictability for solar OA projects.

Captive exemption: Cross-subsidy surcharge shall not be levied on a person who has established a captive generating plant for carrying electricity to the destination of their own use, provided captive status requirements are met.

For a detailed comparison of CSS across Indian states, see our solar open access state comparison India 2026.

3. Additional Surcharge

The additional surcharge is designed to recover the stranded fixed costs of DISCOMs when open-access consumers procure power from independent sources rather than through the DISCOM. GERC determines this surcharge on a rolling 6-month basis using historical operational data.

For the period 1 April 2026 to 30 September 2026:

• Additional surcharge: ₹0.76 per kWh (reduced from ₹1.00 per kWh in the prior period, a 24 percent reduction)

The calculation methodology, established in GERC's Order dated 30 August 2022, uses the following approach:

1. GUVNL submits certified operational and financial data for the prior 6-month period
2. Data is verified by the State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC) and an independent Chartered Accountant
3. The Commission calculates stranded fixed costs attributable to open access users
4. Network-related costs already paid by OA consumers through demand charges (8.77 percent factor) are deducted
5. The net stranded cost is divided by total OA energy consumption to derive the per-unit surcharge

For the April to September 2026 period, the calculation yielded:

• Total available energy: 90,648 million units (MUs)
• Scheduled energy for general consumers: 65,049 MUs
• Stranded generation: 25,599 MUs
• Net stranded fixed cost recoverable: ₹137 crore
• Additional surcharge: ₹0.76 per kWh

Key exemptions:

• Not applicable to captive generating plants used for own consumption
• Not applicable to the extent of contract demand maintained with the distribution licensee
• Linearly reduced over 4 years from the date of grant of Green Energy Open Access (eventually eliminated)
• Not applicable to power from Municipal Solid Waste-to-Energy plants
• Not applicable to electricity from offshore wind projects commissioned up to December 2032

In short, the additional surcharge for solar OA in Gujarat has been steadily declining, reflecting improved DISCOM capacity utilisation and the growing maturity of the open access market.

4. Transmission Charges (GETCO)

Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO) charges transmission charges for use of the high-voltage intra-state transmission network. These charges are determined by GERC through a separate tariff order for GETCO.

For FY 2025-26, GERC approved GETCO transmission charges at ₹3,918.01 per MW per day (reduced from ₹4,130.32 per MW per day). The exact FY 2026-27 GETCO transmission charge rate should be verified from the GERC GETCO tariff order for FY 2026-27, available at gercin.org.

Transmission charges are typically billed on a capacity (₹per MW per day) basis rather than per-unit, and are shared among all transmission system users based on their allocated share of the network.

For projects using inter-state transmission (CTU network), additional inter-state transmission charges payable to CTU/PGCIL may apply, as determined by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC).

5. SLDC Scheduling and Deviation Charges

The State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC) levies nominal scheduling and deviation settlement (DSM) charges for open access transactions. These charges cover the cost of energy scheduling, metering, and grid management. The exact rates are specified in GERC's relevant regulations and orders.

Deviation settlement charges apply when actual energy drawal differs from scheduled energy. For solar OA projects, accurate forecasting and scheduling are essential to minimise DSM charges.

For a broader understanding of open access solar across India, see our open access solar India guide.

Landed Cost Calculation: Third-Party Solar Open Access

Example: 1 MW HT Industrial Consumer at 11 kV

Assumptions:

• Solar PPA price: ₹3.50 per unit
• Annual solar generation: 1,500,000 units (1.5 MU)
• Consumer voltage level: 11 kV HT
• Open access type: Third-party (non-captive)
• Period: FY 2026-27 (full year approximation)

Comparison with Grid Power

Note: The savings percentage above is conservative because the additional surcharge applies only for 6 months (April to September 2026). For the October 2026 to March 2027 period, the additional surcharge will be determined separately by GERC, potentially at a different rate. Also, the GETCO transmission charge used is from FY 2025-26 as a reference; verify the FY 2026-27 rate.

The bottom line is that even with all open access charges included, third-party solar OA delivers meaningful savings over grid power for HT industrial consumers in Gujarat.

Voltage-Wise Example: Landed Cost at Different Voltage Levels

The voltage level at which a consumer connects significantly impacts the open access cost stack, primarily through wheeling charges.

HT Level (11 kV, 22 kV, 33 kV)

LT Level (400V)

This means connecting at the HT level rather than LT saves approximately ₹0.86 per unit in wheeling charges alone—a compelling reason for industrial consumers to maintain HT connections for open access transactions.

Captive Solar Treatment: Exemptions and Requirements

Captive Generation Exemption

Under the GERC Green Energy Open Access Regulations, 2024, and the Electricity Act, 2003, captive generating plants used for own consumption are exempt from:

• Cross-subsidy surcharge: Not levied on captive consumers
• Additional surcharge: Not applicable to captive generating plants

This makes the captive solar model significantly more cost-effective than third-party open access. The landed cost for captive solar is essentially the solar LCOE plus wheeling charges plus transmission charges, without CSS or additional surcharge.

Captive Status Requirements

To qualify as a captive consumer, the following conditions must be met:

1. Ownership: The captive user must own at least 26 percent of the equity in the generating plant (or the plant must be established by the consumer themselves)
2. Consumption: The captive user must consume at least 51 percent of the power generated (for solar, this is measured annually)
3. Documentation: The captive generating plant and captive consumer must provide ownership and consumption evidence to the distribution licensee

Consequences of Non-Compliance

If a captive consumer fails to prove captive status:

• They are treated as a normal open access consumer
• All charges applicable to normal OA consumers become payable (CSS, additional surcharge, etc.)
• concessional benefits granted for captive use are withdrawn for the relevant year
• The DISCOM may approach GERC for recovery of charges including late payment surcharge

The bottom line is that maintaining captive compliance is critical—failure to do so can retroactively convert a cost-effective captive arrangement into an expensive third-party OA transaction.

For a comprehensive guide on structuring captive solar projects, see our group captive solar India guide.

Landed Cost Comparison: Captive vs Third-Party vs Grid

To summarize, the cost hierarchy from cheapest to most expensive is: rooftop net-metered solar, captive solar OA, third-party solar OA, and grid power. Industrial consumers with adequate roof space should prioritise rooftop solar before exploring off-site open access options.

For more on rooftop solar economics, see our solar panel ROI payback period India guide and solar IRR calculation methodology India.

Commonly Missed Costs in Gujarat Open Access

1. Banking Charges

Under the GERC Green Energy Open Access (Fifth Amendment) Regulations, 2026, banking charges are set at ₹1.50 per unit, effective from the date of notification until 31 August 2026 (or earlier if the Commission notifies new charges). After 31 August 2026, new banking charges will be notified separately.

Banking charges apply when surplus solar energy is "banked" with the grid for later use. While banking is permitted in defined windows, the per-unit charge can significantly impact project economics if not accounted for in the financial model.

2. Deviation Settlement Mechanism (DSM) Charges

DSM charges apply when actual energy drawal differs from scheduled energy. For solar projects, forecasting errors can lead to significant DSM charges. Ensure your scheduling and forecasting methodology is robust, and factor in a DSM contingency of 1 to 3 percent of project revenue.

3. Demand Charges on Retained DISCOM Connection

Even when procuring power through open access, most consumers maintain a standby connection with the DISCOM. Demand charges for this standby connection continue to apply and should be factored into the total cost of open access.

The additional surcharge is not applicable to the extent of contract demand maintained with the DISCOM, so retaining an appropriate level of contracted demand can reduce the additional surcharge burden.

4. Metering and Communication Charges

Open access consumers may need to install special meters (ABT meters, check meters) and communication infrastructure for real-time data transmission to SLDC. These costs are typically one-time but can range from ₹50,000 to ₹200,000 depending on the voltage level and metering requirements.

5. Energy Accounting and Reconciliation Costs

Monthly energy accounting, reconciliation, and billing for open access transactions may require specialised software or consulting services. Budget for ongoing administrative costs of 0.5 to 1 percent of project revenue.

This means a thorough open access financial model must account for not just the headline charges (wheeling, CSS, surcharge) but also the secondary costs that can erode savings by 5 to 10 percent if overlooked.

Verification Steps Before Signing a Solar PPA in Gujarat

Step 1: Confirm Your Consumer Category and Voltage Level

Verify your consumer category (HT-I Industrial, HT-II Commercial, etc.) and voltage level (11 kV, 22 kV, 33 kV, or 400V) from your latest electricity bill. This determines your applicable wheeling charge rate.

Step 2: Check the Latest GERC Tariff Order

Download the latest GERC tariff order for your DISCOM (DGVCL, MGVCL, PGVCL, or UGVCL) from gercin.org. Verify the wheeling charges, CSS, and any applicable surcharges for FY 2026-27.

Step 3: Verify the Additional Surcharge Period

Check the current GERC order on additional surcharge (available under "Other Orders" on gercin.org). The surcharge is determined for 6-month periods (April to September and October to March) and may change between periods.

Step 4: Confirm Captive Status (If Applicable)

If you are structuring as a captive consumer, ensure you meet the 26 percent equity ownership and 51 percent consumption requirements. Document ownership and consumption patterns for submission to the DISCOM.

Step 5: Calculate Total Landed Cost

Add all applicable charges (PPA + wheeling + CSS + additional surcharge + transmission + SLDC + banking + DSM contingency) to derive the total landed cost. Compare with your current grid cost to verify savings.

Step 6: Verify GETCO Transmission Charges

Obtain the current GETCO transmission charge from the GERC GETCO tariff order. If your project uses inter-state transmission, also obtain CERC-determined CTU charges.

Step 7: Model Scenario Sensitivity

Model scenarios for different additional surcharge rates (the October to March 2027 period rate is not yet determined), different wheeling loss rates, and different DSM charge levels to stress-test your project economics.

For expert guidance on structuring your open access transaction, consider working with a solar provider in India experienced with Gujarat's regulatory framework, or explore our solar EPC company India directory.

Stress-Testing Your Open Access Model

Sensitivity Analysis: Additional Surcharge

The additional surcharge is re-determined every 6 months. Based on historical data:

Model your project with a range of ₹0.50 to ₹1.00 per kWh for the additional surcharge to account for future variability.

Sensitivity Analysis: Wheeling Loss

While GERC has reduced wheeling losses to 6.5 percent for FY 2026-27, this rate is reviewed annually. Model scenarios at 6.0 percent, 6.5 percent, and 7.0 percent to understand the impact on delivered energy.

Sensitivity Analysis: CSS

The CSS for green energy open access is capped at 50 percent of the initial year's surcharge for 12 years from the plant's operation date. However, the base CSS rate itself may change annually. Model scenarios at ₹1.20, ₹1.33, and ₹1.50 per kWh.

The bottom line is that robust sensitivity analysis is essential for open access solar projects, given the semi-annual and annual variability of key charge components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cross-subsidy surcharge for solar open access in Gujarat for FY 2026-27?

The cross-subsidy surcharge (CSS) for all commercial and industrial open access consumers in Gujarat is ₹1.33 per kWh for FY 2026-27, increased 3.1 percent from ₹1.29 per kWh in FY 2025-26. However, for green energy open access from renewable energy plants, the CSS shall not increase by more than 50 percent of the surcharge fixed in the year open access is granted, during 12 years from the plant's operation date. Captive consumers are fully exempt from CSS.

What is the additional surcharge for open access in Gujarat and how often does it change?

The additional surcharge for open access consumers in Gujarat is ₹0.76 per kWh for the period 1 April 2026 to 30 September 2026, reduced from ₹1.00 per kWh in the prior period. GERC determines the additional surcharge on a rolling 6-month basis using certified operational data from the prior 6-month period. The next determination (for October 2026 to March 2027) will be issued by GERC separately. Captive consumers and those maintaining contract demand with the DISCOM are exempt or partially exempt.

How much are wheeling charges for solar open access in Gujarat?

For FY 2026-27, wheeling charges at HT levels (11 kV, 22 kV, 33 kV) are ₹0.2352 per unit, increased 14.6 percent from ₹0.20 per unit. At the LT level (400V), wheeling charges are ₹1.11 per unit, up 14 percent from ₹0.97 per unit. Wheeling losses have been reduced to 6.5 percent from 7.25 percent, partially offsetting the charge increase through higher delivered energy.

Is captive solar exempt from cross-subsidy surcharge and additional surcharge in Gujarat?

Yes. Under the GERC Green Energy Open Access Regulations, 2024, and the Electricity Act, 2003, captive generating plants used for own consumption are exempt from both cross-subsidy surcharge and additional surcharge. To qualify, the captive user must own at least 26 percent equity in the generating plant and consume at least 51 percent of the power generated (measured annually for solar). Failure to maintain captive status results in retroactive treatment as a normal OA consumer with all charges applicable.

What is the total landed cost of solar open access in Gujarat for an HT industrial consumer?

For a typical HT industrial consumer at 11 kV procuring solar through third-party open access in FY 2026-27, the total landed cost is approximately ₹6.00 to ₹7.00 per unit, including the solar PPA price (approximately ₹3.50), wheeling charges (₹0.2352), CSS (₹1.33), additional surcharge (₹0.76 for half the year), transmission charges, and SLDC charges. This compares to a grid power landed cost of ₹7.50 to ₹8.50 per unit, representing 10 to 20 percent savings. Captive solar reduces the landed cost further to ₹4.50 to ₹5.50 per unit by eliminating CSS and additional surcharge.

What are the banking charges for green energy open access in Gujarat?

Under the GERC Green Energy Open Access (Fifth Amendment) Regulations, 2026, notified on 30 June 2026, banking charges are set at ₹1.50 per unit, effective from the notification date until 31 August 2026 (or earlier if the Commission notifies new charges through a separate regulation). After 31 August 2026, new banking charges will be applicable as notified by GERC separately.

How do Gujarat's open access charges compare to other states?

Gujarat's open access charge framework is moderately competitive among Indian states. The CSS of ₹1.33 per kWh is in the mid-range nationally, and the additional surcharge has been trending downward (from ₹1.00 to ₹0.76 per kWh). The reduced wheeling losses (6.5 percent) and the 12-year CSS cap for renewable energy make Gujarat attractive for long-term solar OA projects. For a detailed state-by-state comparison, see our solar open access state comparison India 2026.

Can I switch from open access to net metering for my solar project?

Yes, under the Draft GERC Grid-Interactive Distributed Renewable Energy Sources Regulations, 2026, consumers may switch between metering arrangements up to 3 times during the project life, with a maximum of once per financial year. This flexibility allows you to start with open access and switch to net metering (or vice versa) if your consumption pattern or tariff structure changes. The switch requires 30 days advance intimation before the commencement of the financial year. For rooftop solar considerations, see our net metering policy India guide.

Regulatory Status and Freshness Note

Regulatory status last checked: 31 July 2026

Key regulatory developments to monitor:

• GERC tariff orders for FY 2026-27 were issued on 25 March 2026, effective from 1 April 2026
• The additional surcharge of ₹0.76 per kWh applies for 1 April 2026 to 30 September 2026; the October 2026 to March 2027 surcharge will be determined separately by GERC
• The GERC Green Energy Open Access (Fifth Amendment) Regulations, 2026 set banking charges at ₹1.50 per unit until 31 August 2026; new charges expected thereafter
• A Draft GERC (Terms and Conditions for Green Energy Open Access) (Sixth Amendment) Regulations, 2026 was issued on 20 June 2026—monitor for final notification
• GETCO transmission charges for FY 2026-27 should be verified from the GERC GETCO tariff order at gercin.org

Always verify current charges, surcharges, and regulations directly with GERC (gercin.org), your DISCOM, and SLDC before making investment decisions or signing PPAs.

Sources

1. GERC Order No. 02 of 2026 — Additional Surcharge for OA consumers, 1 April 2026 to 30 September 2026 — https://gercin.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Order-Addl.-Surcharge-payable-by-OA-consumers-for-the-period-01.04.26-to-30.09.26-dtd.-17.03.2026.pdf
2. GERC Tariff Order for MGVCL FY 2026-27 — https://gercin.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/MGVCL-2582-2025-Tariff-Order-for-FY-2026-27-dtd.-25.03.2026.pdf
3. GERC Tariff Order for UGVCL FY 2026-27 — https://gercin.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/UGVCL-2584-2025-Tariff-Order-for-FY-2026-27-dtd.-25.03.2026.pdf
4. GERC Press Note on FY 2026-27 Tariff Changes — https://gercin.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/English-Press-Note-.pdf
5. Gujarat Retains FY 2027 Power Tariffs at Previous Year's Levels (Mercom India) — https://cms.mercomindia.com/gujarat-retains-fy-2027-power-tariffs-at-previous-years-levels/
6. GERC Fixes Rs 0.76/kWh Additional Surcharge (SolarQuarter) — https://solarquarter.com/2026/03/19/gerc-fixes-%E2%82%B90-76-kwh-additional-surcharge-for-open-access-consumers-for-april-september-2026-in-gujarat/
7. Gujarat Cuts Additional Surcharge to Rs 0.76/kWh (Mercom India) — https://www.mercomindia.com/gujarat-cuts-additional-surcharge-for-open-access-power-to-%E2%82%B90-76-kwh
8. GERC Sets Additional Surcharge at Rs 0.76/kWh (Saur Energy) — https://www.saurenergy.com/solar-energy-news/gujarat-regulator-sets-additional-surcharge-at-076kwh-for-open-access-users-11226547
9. GERC Green Energy Open Access Regulations, 2024 — https://gercin.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/GERC-Terms-and-Conditions-for-Green-Energy-Open-Access-Regulations2024.pdf
10. GERC GEOA Fifth Amendment Regulations, 2026 (Gazette) — https://gercin.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/gazette-copy.pdf
11. GERC Tariff Order for GETCO — https://gercin.org/order/tariff-order-for-getco-12/
12. GERC Other Orders (Additional Surcharge History) — https://gercin.org/order-category/other-orders/
13. Gujarat GERC HT Tariff 2026-27 Analysis (Bridgeway Power) — https://bridgewaypower.in/blog/gujarat-gerc-ht-tariff-2026-27
14. Guide to Open Access Solar in Gujarat 2026 (Wattency) — https://wattency.com/guides/open-access-solar-gujarat-2026
15. BEE Electric Tariff Update FY 2026-27 (LinkedIn) — https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bee-electric-private-limited-605653237_electricitytariff-powersectorindia-energyregulation-activity-7443644104531697664-mVfw
16. GERC FY 2026-27 Tariff Announcement (DeshGujarat) — https://deshgujarat.com/2026/03/25/gerc-unveils-fy-2026-27-power-tariff-in-gujarat-no-base-rate-hike-more-rebates-for-smart-meters-solar-hours/
17. GERC Tariff Orders Listing — https://gercin.org/order-category/tariff-orders/
18. GERC Draft GEOA Sixth Amendment Regulations, 2026 — https://gercin.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Draft-GERC_GEOA-6th-Amendment-Regulations-2026.pdf