VIA Welcomes New Maha Renewable Energy Policy, Expert Flags Impact On Home Consumers

Nagpur: The newly notified Maharashtra Renewable Energy and Energy Storage Policy (2025-26 to 2035-36) received a mixed response from industry and energy experts, with the Vidarbha Industries Association (VIA) welcoming its focus on easing regulatory bottlenecks, while experts have raised concerns over its impact on residential solar consumers.VIA president Prashant Mohota said the policy marks a significant shift towards resolving long-standing implementation challenges, particularly in Green Open Access (GEOA). Though eligibility for GEOA at the 100kW threshold existed earlier, its adoption was hindered by procedural delays."The introduction of a single-window system, time-bound clearances, and integration with the National Green Open Access Registry is a major step towards ease of doing business for MSMEs," Mohota said.He also highlighted the importance of the policy's detailed action plan, which sets deadlines of three to 12 months for agencies such as Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited, Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited and Mahagenco to roll out operational guidelines, stressing the need for strict adherence to timelines.However, VIA has urged the govt to introduce capital-based incentives for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), noting that existing duty-related benefits offer limited advantage to Vidarbha industries. The association has also sought representation in the policy's implementation committee to ensure regional industrial concerns are addressed.In contrast, solar energy expert Sudhir Budhay flagged significant changes affecting home consumers, particularly in rooftop solar regulations. According to Budhay, the policy proposes restricting key net metering benefits — such as annual banking and exemption from grid support charges — only to installations up to 3 kW. Consumers in the 3 kW to 10 kW category would lose these benefits and be shifted to monthly banking with additional grid support charges."For systems above 10 kW, net metering will no longer be available, and consumers will be moved to net billing with dynamic pricing and additional charges," he noted.The policy also introduces time-of-day (ToD)-based energy accounting through smart or ToD meters, with surplus energy exported to the grid being purchased by MSEDCL at average market-linked (G-DAM) rates. Cross-slot energy settlement will not be allowed, potentially affecting consumer savings, said Budhay.Experts warn that these changes could reduce the financial attractiveness of rooftop solar for households and small businesses, even as the policy aims to accelerate large-scale renewable energy adoption.While industry sees the policy as a step forward in improving execution and boosting green manufacturing, concerns remain over balancing ambitious renewable targets with affordability and consumer-friendly provisions.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with EId ul fitr 2026 wishes, messages and quotes !