Opposition Grows Against MERC's Proposed Solar Power Restrictions in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) recently conducted a public hearing to discuss proposed restrictions on solar energy usage. These proposed regulations have faced significant opposition from various stakeholders, including power experts and industrial organizations.

Key Concerns Raised:

• Restriction on Solar Power Usage: Critics argue that the proposed regulations would limit consumers with installed solar panels to utilizing their generated power only during an eight-hour window, specifically from 9 AM to 5 PM. This limitation could lead to increased electricity bills for consumers who rely on solar energy outside of these hours.

• Impact on Residential Consumers: There is apprehension that these restrictions would adversely affect residential consumers who have invested in rooftop solar panels to reduce their electricity expenses.

• Contradiction to Solar Promotion Initiatives: Experts believe that the proposed limitations contradict governmental efforts to promote solar energy adoption, potentially discouraging future investments in renewable energy infrastructure.

Official Clarification:

In response to the mounting objections, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that there is no enforcement of an eight-hour restriction for domestic electricity consumers or beneficiaries of the PM Surya Ghar Yojana. He emphasized that some industrial sectors generating surplus electricity should receive appropriate compensation for their contributions.

Current Status:

The MERC has invited objections and suggestions from the public regarding the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited's (MSEDCL) proposed multi-year tariff petition. Public hearings are scheduled to take place in various locations, including Navi Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, and Amravati, in the coming days.

This ongoing discourse highlights the critical balance between regulatory measures and the promotion of renewable energy adoption in Maharashtra.