The Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) has simplified the process for consumers seeking to install rooftop solar systems in the state. In an order issued on August 19, 2026, the commission allowed consumers applying for rooftop solar connections through the online portal to complete the net metering agreement digitally, removing the need to sign and submit a separate physical agreement.
The decision was taken on a petition filed by Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL). The distribution utility had requested relaxation of Regulation 11.13 of the PSERC Grid Interactive Rooftop Solar Photo Voltaic Systems Regulations, 2021, citing delays caused by physical documentation.
Under the revised process, the system-generated agreement completed by consumers through the online portal will be treated as a valid connection agreement. The change is expected to reduce paperwork and make the rooftop solar installation process faster for consumers.
The move comes as Punjab works to increase rooftop solar adoption under the central government’s PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The scheme, launched in February 2024, has set Punjab a target of 2,50,000 rooftop solar installations by financial year 2026–27. However, the pace of installations has remained below the required level.
According to figures presented before the commission, as of June 22, 2026, around 26,538 applications had been received, while only 14,136 rooftop solar plants had been commissioned. The gap highlighted the need to simplify administrative procedures and speed up the connection process.
The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and the Ministry of Power have also directed distribution companies to reduce procedural hurdles and support faster implementation of rooftop solar projects.
PSERC had earlier taken steps to reduce costs for domestic consumers under the PM Surya Ghar scheme. The commission had waived application fees and meter testing charges for domestic rooftop solar systems with capacity of up to 10 kW. However, consumers were still required to complete a physical net metering agreement because a digital alternative was not available at the time.
Following review meetings conducted by the Ministry of Power in June 2026, the national rooftop solar portal was updated to enable consumers to execute system-generated agreements digitally. PSPCL subsequently issued Commercial Circular No. 26/2026 on June 19, 2026, and approached PSERC to formally recognize the digital agreement process for all consumer categories applying through the online portal, including applicants outside the PM Surya Ghar scheme.
During the public hearing held on August 12, 2026, the commission received no objections or comments from the public or other stakeholders.
PSERC exercised its inherent “Power to Relax” under Regulation 24 and approved PSPCL’s request. The commission ruled that the online agreement generated and submitted through the portal would meet the regulatory requirement for a connection agreement.
The decision is expected to make rooftop solar connections in Punjab more convenient by removing physical paperwork and supporting a faster, fully digital application and onboarding process.
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