Tamil Nadu Solar Net Metering Policy 2026: How It Works

Short answer: yes, Tamil Nadu has net metering for rooftop solar. TNPDCL (TNEB) replaces your meter with a bi-directional net meter that records units you import from the grid and units your system exports. You pay mainly for the difference, so daytime solar export covers night-time use. Your system size generally cannot exceed your sanctioned load, and how leftover export units are settled is set by TNERC rules. Homes that net-meter also get the up to ₹1 lakh subsidy if eligible.

Rules summarised as of October 2026. Net metering terms are set by the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) and can change; check the current order or ask us before you install.

Net Metering in Tamil Nadu at a Glance

How Net Metering Works Day to Day

Example: in two months your home uses 700 units. Your 3kW system makes 800 units: 350 used directly in the day, 450 exported. At night you import 350. Net billed units: 350 import minus 450 export = 0 (plus fixed charges). The extra export is credited as per current rules.

Read the bill properly: how to read your TNEB solar bill. Estimate your bill with and without solar: TNEB EB bill calculator.

Capacity Rules: How Big Can Your System Be?

• Solar capacity is generally limited to your sanctioned load (shown on your EB card or bill).
• Want a bigger system? Apply for a load increase before or with the solar application.
• Large systems often need a three-phase connection. See single phase to 3-phase upgrade.
• For the subsidy, the central amount is capped at the 3kW level (₹78,000), so size to your bill, not the maximum allowed.

Leftover Units: What Happens to Extra Export?

If your system exports more than you import over a period, the surplus is handled under the TNERC settlement rule in force. These rules have been revised over the years, so we do not quote a fixed rate here. What matters for planning:

• Size your system to your use, not far beyond it. Big surpluses add little value.
• Check the export and net units on each bill.
• Ask your installer to explain the current settlement before signing.

The Net Metering Process in Tamil Nadu

1. Apply on the PM Surya Ghar portal or TNPDCL's Unified Solar Rooftop Portal (USRP) with your consumer number. See TNEB solar application: how to apply and check status.
2. Feasibility approval by the section office (load, dues, transformer capacity).
3. Installation by a registered vendor.
4. Work completion upload and net meter agreement.
5. Inspection and net meter fixing by TNPDCL.
6. Commissioning, then the subsidy is credited.

Detailed local steps: how to get a TNEB net meter in Cuddalore. Waiting for the meter? A zero export device lets you use solar for your own load meanwhile.

Net Metering vs Other Options

Apartment associations can use common-area solar with net metering on the common connection: solar for apartments: RWA subsidy guide.

Commercial Connections

Shops, offices and factories can also install rooftop solar, but the metering arrangement and charges for non-domestic consumers follow separate TNERC provisions, which have been revised and debated. Check the current order for your tariff before investing; we work it out from your bills. See solar for shops and small businesses.

Before You Sign: Net Metering Checklist

1. Check your sanctioned load and plan any load increase.
2. Clear any pending EB dues on the connection.
3. Make sure the EB bill name matches your Aadhaar and bank account.
4. Ask your installer to explain the current settlement rule for surplus units.

We Handle Your Net Meter

From the application to TNPDCL inspection and net meter fixing, our team handles every step and explains your first solar bill. Registered PM Surya Ghar vendor serving Cuddalore, Puducherry and nearby towns. Call or WhatsApp +91 7904369094.