Discoms Expand Virtual Solar Access For Rooftop Limited UsersIndian power distribution companies (discoms) introduced formal guidelines for virtual and group net metering, opening solar access to customers who lack suitable rooftop space. Under the new rules, domestic rooftop systems up to 10 kilowatts are deemed approved without technical studies, while higher-capacity projects face defined approval timelines. For consumers, the change lowers barriers to participating in solar energy, especially in dense urban housing and scattered rural settlements. Predictable approval windows and reduced fees improve project economics, making shared solar investments more appealing for small businesses and institutions. At a trend level, the move reflects growing interest in flexible grid policies that democratize clean energy access and support community-scale solar models.

Source: Economic Times January 19, 2026 17:25 UTC