Typically, two kinds of permission are needed for an on-grid solar system.
- Authorization from your power supplier:
There are various licences you must obtain before exporting electricity into the grid since under a grid-tied system, you will always be connected to your current electricity supplier and able to import and export electricity as needed.
- Net Metering Application: When you install a solar on-grid system, the one-way meter you now have will be swapped out for a two-way or bi-directional meter. A net metering application typically costs between Rs. 500 and Rs. 2000.
- Net Metering Agreement: In addition to your net metering application, you must submit a net metering agreement. This basically notifies your electricity provider that you are installing solar power and that you plan to export any excess energy it produces to the utility grid and pull any excess electricity you need from the same grid when it is not in use.
- Your municipality’s permission: The following are the cases:
Installation of solar panels on a direct roof: You do not require municipal permission to install solar panels on top of an asbestos or metal roof that you currently own.
Solar panels installed on a terrace (RCC): Depending on the height of the installation, you will need authorization to install solar panels on your terrace.
For No Height: You won’t require authorization if your solar panels are mounted at a modest height—usually less than six feet.
Elevated solar panels: In the event that you install solar panels at a height of ten feet, you may need to notify your municipality or obtain authorization in certain situations. (Verify with your local government)
Solar panels installed on a metal roof atop your terrace: If your terrace already has a metal roof that was built with permission, you are able to add solar panels to the roof. However, you might need approval from your town if you want to build a new metal shed and put solar panels on top of it so you can use the space underneath it. (This authorization varies depending on the location.)
- How can I tell if solar panels are a good fit for my house?
Per kW, solar panels need an area of 100 square feet. For a 2 to 3 kW solar panel installation, a typical Indian home with a monthly electricity cost of Rs. 2000 will need 200 to 300 square feet. This space needs to be shadow-free all day, every day of the year.