Net Metering Explained: How Your Solar Units Reduce Your Bill
What a net meter does, how export and import units are counted, and what to expect from WBSEDCL or CESC.
Your solar panels make the most power at midday, often when nobody is home. Net metering makes sure that extra power is not wasted.
How it works
A net meter is a two-way meter. It counts the units you import from the grid (at night, on cloudy days) and the units you export to the grid when your panels make more than you use. Your bill is based on the difference.
A simple example
- Units imported from grid in a month: 250
- Units exported by your solar system: 180
- You pay for: 250 − 180 = 70 units (plus fixed charges)
Getting a net meter
The net meter is installed by your DISCOM, such as WBSEDCL or CESC, after they inspect your solar system. The process includes an application, a technical feasibility check, inspection and meter installation. Rules on settlement of surplus units are set by the state electricity regulator and can change.
We handle the follow-up
Waiting for the net meter is where many people get stuck. At Maa Shibani Solar we submit the paperwork and keep following up with the DISCOM until your meter is fitted and your system is running at full benefit.