01
Check Consumption and Roof Area
Check your last 12 months of KSEB bills and total your yearly use. Also confirm that your roof has enough shade-free space. A 3 kW system usually needs about 300–350 sq. ft.
Updated July 2026 · 9-minute guide
KSEB Net Metering: The Complete Step-by-Step Process
This guide explains each form, fee, and step in the KSEB net-metering process. It covers everything from the first application to activation of the bi-directional meter. The guide is based on residential solar projects in Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam.
9 StepsComplete process
45–60 DaysRealistic timeline
500+Applications handled
3 kWTypical home system
Start here
How KSEB Net Metering Works
Solar panels often produce the most power around midday. At that time, many homes use less electricity. Net metering sends the extra solar power to the KSEB grid instead of wasting it.
A bi-directional meter records power sent to the grid and power taken from the grid. Export credits are adjusted against the electricity you use. This helps reduce the final billed units.
- Surplus daytime solar generation is exported
- Imported and exported units are recorded separately
- Credits can offset weaker monsoon generation
- Annual settlement applies to remaining surplus units
Why it matters
Net metering helps you get value from extra rooftop solar power.
Regulatory update
What Changed from 1 January 2026
Kerala updated parts of its renewable-energy billing rules. For many homes with systems up to 3 kW, the process is still simple: export extra power, receive credits, and settle the balance each year.
Larger systems and future expansions need extra checks. Confirm the allowed capacity and technical rules before you buy equipment or fix the system size.
The complete journey
Around 20 minutes
Same day
Approx. ₹1,000 fee
About 15 days
1–2 days
1–2 days on site
Book in advance
Usually 4–8 weeks
Approx. 30 days
KSEB Net Metering in 9 Simple Steps
Following the process in sequence prevents costly delays, rejected subsidy claims and equipment purchases before technical feasibility is confirmed.
02
Register on the PM Surya Ghar Portal
Select Kerala and KSEB. Register with the consumer number and mobile number linked to your electricity connection. Complete this step before installation starts.
03
Submit Annexure-A to the KSEB Section Office
Submit the net-metering application and pay the required fee. Keep the stamped acknowledgement for follow-up.
04
Complete the Technical Feasibility Check
KSEB checks whether the local transformer can accept your solar export. Do not order or install the system before you receive approval.
05
Register on the KSEB eKiran Portal
After approval, upload the required documents. You can then track the application online.
06
Install the Solar System
The installation includes solar panels, inverter, mounting structure, earthing, safety devices, and the solar priority switch.
07
KSEB Technical Inspection
A KSEB officer checks electrical safety and grid requirements. The installer should be present so small issues can be fixed quickly.
08
Bi-Directional Meter Installation
KSEB replaces the existing meter with a bi-directional meter. Net-metering billing starts only after the new meter is active.
09
Claim the Central Subsidy
Upload the commissioning certificate and bank details to the national portal. Once approved, the subsidy is sent to the registered bank account.
Prepare before applying
Documents You Need
Missing or mismatched paperwork causes more delays than technical problems. Gather these documents before starting the application.
KSEB Bill
A recent electricity bill showing the correct consumer number and registered consumer name.
Property Proof
Property tax receipt, title deed or another accepted ownership document.
Aadhaar & PAN
Identity and tax documents belonging to the registered electricity consumer.
Bank Proof
Cancelled cheque or passbook showing an account in the same name as the electricity connection.
Photograph
A recent passport-size photograph of the registered consumer.
Roof Photos
Clear recent photographs of the proposed solar installation area.
Most common blocker: the electricity connection, bank account, and property documents are in different names.
Complete any required name transfer before you start the subsidy and net-metering process.
After commissioning
How Your KSEB Bill Works After Solar
Exported units are credited against imported units. Because solar output changes greatly between summer and monsoon, credits can accumulate and offset lower-generation months.
| Period | Typical conditions | Indicative generation |
|---|---|---|
| January–March | Clear skies and peak generation | 13–15 units/day |
| April–May | High irradiation with heat-related losses | 12–14 units/day |
| June–August | South-west monsoon | 5–8 units/day |
| September–December | Recovering output with intermittent rain | 9–12 units/day |
These figures are indicative for a 3 kW system in central Kerala. Actual output depends on roof direction, tilt, shading, inverter performance and panel technology. Correct sizing should be based on annual consumption—not one strong or weak month.
Avoid preventable delays
Common Reasons for Delays or Rejection
Most unsuccessful applications are linked to a small number of documentation, timing or eligibility issues.
Name Mismatch
The electricity connection, property documents and bank account do not show the same eligible person.
Installation Started Too Early
Equipment was installed before feasibility approval or portal approval, affecting subsidy eligibility.
Unregistered Vendor
The selected installer is not registered on the applicable national rooftop-solar portal.
Transformer Capacity Exhausted
The local distribution transformer cannot accept additional exported power.
Previous Subsidy Claim
A subsidy has already been claimed against the same property or eligible connection.
Incomplete Technical Documents
Drawings, equipment specifications, certificates or annexures are missing or inconsistent.
Common questions
KSEB Net Metering FAQs
Practical answers for homeowners planning a residential rooftop solar installation.
How long does the KSEB net metering process take?
A typical timeline is about 45–60 days from Annexure-A submission to meter activation. This assumes the documents are complete and transformer capacity is available.
Can I apply without a solar installer?
You can start the application yourself. However, an experienced installer can make the technical forms, drawings, inspection, and commissioning steps easier.
Does KSEB pay monthly cash for exported electricity?
Exported units are usually adjusted against imported units and carried forward. Any eligible surplus left at annual settlement is handled at the approved rate.
How much roof space is required for a 3 kW system?
A 3 kW system usually needs about 300–350 sq. ft. of usable, shade-free roof space. The exact area depends on panel size, roof type, setbacks, and service access.
Can a 3 kW system run an air conditioner?
A 3 kW system may produce enough energy for several hours of air-conditioner use on a clear day. Actual performance depends on weather, appliance efficiency, and other loads running at the same time.
What happens if the property is sold?
Net metering is linked to the electricity connection. If the property is sold, update the connection and the net-metering details through KSEB.
Paperwork handled for you
Not Sure Where Your Net Metering Application Stands?
B&B Green Energy supports net-metering documentation for solar projects across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Get system sizing, a free site evaluation, and support from application to commissioning.