Net Metering in Karnataka, Explained
What the meter does, how your bill changes, and how the DISCOM process runs.
Net metering is what lets a grid-connected solar system pay you back for the power you send out. This guide explains it in plain terms. When you go ahead, Paso Solar handles the entire application with your DISCOM.
What net metering is
A normal meter counts only the power you take from the grid. A net meter counts both directions, so the solar you produce but do not use straight away is still credited to you.
A meter that reads both ways
The DISCOM replaces your meter with a bidirectional one during the process.
Daytime surplus is exported
When the panels make more than you are using, the extra flows out and is recorded.
Night-time use is imported
After the panels stop, you draw from the grid, and the day's export credit is set off against it.
You are billed on the net
The bill is raised on the difference between import and export over the billing cycle. Fixed charges still apply.
Net metering vs gross metering
Under net metering, you use your own solar first and only the surplus is exported and credited. Under gross metering, all generation is sold to the DISCOM at a set rate and you buy all your consumption back.
For most homes and small businesses, net metering gives better value because self-used units are worth your full retail tariff. We confirm which applies to your connection.
The process, stage by stage
Similar across DISCOMs. With Paso Solar, every stage is ours to run — you do not visit an office.
Eligibility check
Sanctioned load, feeder and transformer capacity, and the approvable system size are confirmed.
Application
The DISCOM form, single-line diagram, and documents are prepared and filed, and the fee is paid.
Feasibility approval
The utility reviews the technical feasibility and issues its approval to proceed.
Installation
The system is installed to standard, ready for inspection.
Inspection
A DISCOM engineer inspects the installation and signs off.
Meter and activation
The bidirectional meter is fitted and the connection goes live under net metering.
What decides your eligibility
- Your sanctioned load — the system size is capped as a share of it
- The spare capacity on your local transformer and feeder
- Ownership of the building, or an NOC where the roof is shared
- A clear, safe installation that meets the DISCOM's technical norms
We check all of this before you commit, so a system is never installed that cannot be approved.
Karnataka DISCOMs we handle
The forms, fees, and portals differ between them, and the credit rate and carry-forward rules are set by each DISCOM under current policy. We manage the right process for your area.
Go deeper
Detailed articles on the net metering process, billing, and the subsidy schemes.
- Net Metering in Karnataka: The Complete ProcessHow rooftop solar net metering works with BESCOM and other Karnataka ESCOMs — the stages, the documents, the realistic timeline, and where applications actually stall.3 min read
- Virtual Net Metering vs Group Net Metering in KarnatakaHow VNM and GNM differ in eligibility, plant location, mandatory self-consumption, and metering cost — and which mechanism actually applies to your connection.4 min read
- Reading Your Electricity Bill After SolarHow a Karnataka electricity bill changes once net metering is active, what import and export mean on the statement, and why the bill rarely reaches zero.3 min read
- PM Surya Ghar Subsidy: Scheme and ApplicationWhat the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana covers, the subsidy amounts by capacity, who qualifies, and how the application works for Karnataka households.3 min read
Let us handle the DISCOM side
Share your connection details and area. We will confirm your eligibility and run the entire net metering process for you.