Net metering is one of the most financially powerful benefits of going solar. It allows you to sell excess electricity your panels generate back to KSEB — effectively using the grid as a giant battery. Here's how it works in Kerala.

What Is Net Metering?

Net metering is a billing mechanism where your electricity meter runs both forwards and backwards. When your solar panels generate more power than you're using, the excess flows into the grid and your meter runs backwards — credits accumulate on your account. When you draw power from the grid (at night or on cloudy days), those credits offset the cost.

At the end of each billing cycle, you only pay for the net difference between what you consumed and what you exported.

How Net Metering Works in Kerala (KSEB)

ScenarioWhat HappensYour Bill
Solar generates more than you useExcess exported to grid; meter credits accumulate₹0 or credit carried forward
Solar generates less than you useDraw from grid; credits offset the importPay only the net difference
Credits exceed monthly consumptionSurplus credits carry forward to next monthNil bill, credits build up
Annual surplus creditsKSEB pays out remaining credits at buyback rateAnnual cash payment from KSEB
🔌
Current KSEB Buyback Rate

As of 2024, KSEB purchases surplus solar power at ₹3.14 per unit for residential connections. Credits that aren't used within the settlement year are paid out at this rate.

How to Apply for Net Metering in Kerala

  • Step 1: Install a grid-tied solar system through an MNRE-empanelled vendor (this is a prerequisite — off-grid systems cannot participate in net metering).
  • Step 2: Your vendor submits a net metering application to KSEB on your behalf, along with technical documents about your system.
  • Step 3: KSEB inspects the installation and approves the application (typically within 30–60 days).
  • Step 4: KSEB installs a bidirectional (net) meter at your premises, replacing your existing meter.
  • Step 5: Net metering begins automatically. Your subsequent bills will show import and export units separately.

Net Metering vs. Gross Metering

In net metering, only your surplus power goes to the grid. In gross metering (used for larger commercial installations), all solar power goes to the grid and you buy all your consumption separately. For residential customers in Kerala, net metering is the standard and more financially advantageous arrangement.

Real-World Example

Monthly generation (3 kW system)300 units
Monthly home consumption250 units
Net export to grid50 units
Credits earned (50 × ₹3.14)₹157 credit
Effective monthly bill₹0 (with credit carryover)

Maximise Your Solar Returns with Net Metering

Rayenna Energy handles the complete net metering application with KSEB for every installation we do — at no additional cost to you.

Get Started Today →