Special Correspondent
Pune: Consumers are raising concerns over the installation of Time of Day (TOD) meters by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), alleging that the move has undermined the benefits of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Yojana. The scheme was designed to help homeowners install rooftop solar systems and significantly lower their electricity costs. However, many claim that despite generating solar power, their electricity bills remain unchanged.
Issues with TOD Meters
According to the Rooftop Regulations 2019, electricity consumed during daytime hours (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.) is offset against solar power generation at that time. However, any excess energy produced during this period is categorized as off-peak electricity. Crucially, energy used during peak hours (6 p.m. – 9 a.m.) is not adjusted against solar power generation. Since solar panels primarily generate electricity during the day while household consumption is higher in the evening and night, consumers argue that the new metering system provides minimal savings.
31,000 TOD Meters Installed
In Pune alone, 31,000 TOD meters have already been deployed. Previously, homeowners with solar power setups only paid for electricity consumed beyond what they generated, and any surplus was credited to their account, with reimbursement provided at the end of the year. While smart meters are meant to enhance tracking of energy usage, the updated billing structure has sparked dissatisfaction among consumers.
Concerns Over MSEDCL’s New Tariff Structure
Under MSEDCL’s latest tariff proposal, the off-peak period is officially set between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. If solar electricity generated during this time is not used immediately, it is recorded as surplus. At the end of the year, MSEDCL will compensate consumers for 88% of these surplus units at a rate of Rs. 3 to Rs. 3.50 per unit. However, electricity used during peak hours will be charged at full rates, leaving consumers frustrated as they expected their solar investments to reduce their power bills significantly.
Consumer Backlash
Vivek Velankar, president of Sajag Nagarik Manch, criticized the revised policy, stating, “Solar energy is generated during the day, but the majority of electricity consumption occurs between 6 p.m. and 9 a.m. Since usage during these peak hours will be billed at standard rates, the expected savings from solar systems will be minimal.”
He further pointed out that the reimbursement rate for surplus solar power is significantly lower than the retail electricity tariff, making it difficult for consumers to achieve zero electricity bills. Velankar urged residents to oppose MSEDCL’s electricity tariff hike before the deadline on Monday and advocate for billing under the previous system, even after the installation of smart meters.
