The Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) has issued guidelines to address calculating electricity units exported by solar net meter consumers during periods when meters are defective or non-functional.

This clarification aims to ensure fair and consistent billing practices for prosumers with grid-interactive solar rooftop photovoltaic systems.

APERC said all provisions of the General Terms and Conditions of Supply (GTCS), the Supply Code, and relevant regulations apply to prosumers.

By providing clear instructions on estimating energy export during meter defects, APERC aims to minimize disputes and promote the smooth operation of solar net metering systems in Andhra Pradesh.

This includes requiring prosumers to notify the distribution companies (DISCOM) before installing a rooftop solar system behind the meter and to comply with Central Electricity Authority (CEA) technical standards.

When a meter malfunctions, the APERC recommended estimating the energy exported using the average of the units recorded in the last three billing cycles before the defect.

The guidelines address two specific scenarios:

Stuck meters: In cases where meters are stuck or not recording correctly, a GTCS Clause 7.5.1.4.2 should be followed, which involves using the last known accurate readings or average usage data for estimation.

Defective meters: For defective meters, GTCS Clause 7.5.1.4.3, which includes procedures for recalibration or replacement of the meter, as well as using historical data for accurate usage estimation, applies.

The guidelines apply to Andhra Pradesh Central Power Distribution Corporation (APCPDCL), Eastern Power Distribution Company of Andhra Pradesh (APEPDCL), and Andhra Pradesh Southern Power Distribution Company (APSPDCL).

Recently, APERC approved a tripartite Power Supply Agreement allowing the Andhra Pradesh Green Energy Corporation, now known as AP Rural Agriculture Power Supply Company, to draw 7 GW of solar power from the Solar Energy Corporation of India.

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