The Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) has issued new practice directions to simplify the establishment, interconnection and operation of Behind-the-Meter (BTM) Solar Rooftop Photovoltaic systems used for captive consumption.
Under the new framework, consumers can install BTM captive solar plants without obtaining prior permission, feasibility approval or line clearance from the concerned distribution company (DISCOM). However, consumers must provide prior intimation to the DISCOM before synchronising the plant or carrying out off-grid islanding.
A key requirement is zero power injection into the grid. Consumers must ensure that their rooftop solar systems do not export electricity to the grid during synchronisation, regardless of whether the grid is live or switched off.
APERC has also allowed consumers to configure multiple internal interconnections and inverter setups based on their load requirements and voltage levels. Data from all installed inverters must be integrated and transmitted to the DISCOM or State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC), wherever required.
The Commission has further clarified that BTM rooftop solar systems will not attract cross-subsidy surcharge or additional surcharge, including projects financed through third-party investment models. Consumers will remain responsible for applicable standard tariff charges.
DISCOMs may propose specific service charges for such installations through future Retail Supply Tariff proceedings, provided they submit appropriate justification to the Commission.
The new directions are expected to reduce regulatory uncertainty for captive rooftop solar users while maintaining requirements related to grid safety, technical compliance, monitoring and zero grid injection.
