Net metering is what turns a rooftop solar plant from a partial saving into a nearly zero bill. It is also the part most customers understand least — which makes it easy to be misled about how much you will really save. Here is the plain-language version for Jaipur (JVVNL area).
What net metering actually does
Your panels produce the most electricity at midday, when your home uses the least. Instead of wasting the surplus, a bi-directional meter sends it into the JVVNL grid and records it. At night you draw from the grid as usual. At the end of the billing cycle, you are billed only on the net difference — units imported minus units exported.
Net metering vs net billing — the difference matters
- Net metering: exported units offset imported units almost one-for-one. This is the most valuable arrangement for homes.
- Net billing: you are paid a fixed export rate (~₹3.20–3.60/unit under current RERC rates) while paying full tariff (₹7–8) for what you import.
This is exactly why sizing your plant correctly matters: export as little as possible, consume as much as possible during the day.
The JVVNL application process — 6 steps
- Apply online on the Rajasthan renewable energy portal (or the PM Surya Ghar national portal) with your consumer number.
- Feasibility approval — JVVNL checks transformer capacity in your area.
- Agreement signing — net-metering agreement between you and the DISCOM.
- Installation of the plant by an empanelled installer.
- Meter replacement — JVVNL installs the bi-directional net meter.
- Commissioning — final inspection and the plant goes live.
Typical timeline: 2–6 weeks, depending on inspection queues. Documents: electricity bill, ID proof, ownership proof (or owner NOC), roof photos and the plant's technical datasheets.
Fees you should expect
- Net-metering application / registration fee (nominal, as per DISCOM schedule)
- Bi-directional meter cost (charged by JVVNL)
- Nothing else — beware of anyone asking for "speed money" or unofficial charges
What you really save
A 3 kW plant in Jaipur generates 12–15 units/day. A home using 12 units daily and exporting only the midday surplus typically sees its bill drop 70–90%. With PM Surya Ghar's ₹78,000 subsidy, payback lands around 3 years. Read our full net metering guide or call us — we handle the entire JVVNL paperwork for you.