Guide · Karnataka
Net metering for rooftop solar in Karnataka: how it works
Net metering is what makes a grid-connected rooftop system pay. In plain English: here's how your surplus power turns into bill savings through BESCOM (and Karnataka's other ESCOMs).
Your panels make power — often more than you're using
Rooftop solar generates the most at midday, which is frequently more than a home draws at that moment. Rather than waste the surplus, a grid-connected system exports it to the distribution grid.
A bidirectional meter counts both ways
Net metering replaces your normal meter with a bidirectional one that records both the units you import from the grid and the units you export to it. Your installer arranges this meter as part of the connection.
You're billed on the net
At billing time, your exports are set against your imports, so you only pay for the netunits you actually drew from the grid. Exporting during the day and drawing at night is exactly how a typical home's bill shrinks — which is why higher-bill homes see the fastest payback.
What your installer handles
A MNRE-empanelled installer typically manages the DISCOM net-metering application, the bidirectional-meter installation, and the grid-connection paperwork as part of the project. When you compare installers, confirm this is included. The exact capacity limits, settlement rules and connected-load conditions are set by the regulator and revised periodically — your installer and your ESCOM (BESCOM / CESCOM / MESCOM / HESCOM / GESCOM) confirm the current terms for your connection.
See what solar saves on your bill
Run a free estimate for your home, then compare installers who handle the net-metering application for you.
FAQ
What is net metering, in one line?
Your rooftop system feeds surplus power to the grid, a bidirectional meter records what you export and import, and you're billed on the net — so the units you export offset the units you draw.
Do I need net metering for rooftop solar to be worth it?
For a grid-connected home system, yes — net metering is what lets you get value for the daytime surplus you don't use on the spot. Without it, exported units simply wouldn't count in your favour.
Who applies for net metering — me or the installer?
Your MNRE-empanelled installer typically handles the DISCOM net-metering application and the bidirectional-meter installation as part of the project. Confirm that it's included when you compare quotes.
Which DISCOM handles net metering in Karnataka?
It depends on where you live — BESCOM in the Bengaluru area, and CESCOM, MESCOM, HESCOM or GESCOM elsewhere in the state. The rules are set state-wide by the regulator (KERC); your installer confirms what applies to your connection.
Do the exact rules and limits ever change?
Yes — net-metering capacity limits, settlement mechanics and connected-load rules are revised from time to time. Treat this page as the concept; your installer and DISCOM are the source of truth for the current terms.