Maharashtra Solar Manufacturers Association protests against Grid connect charges
Shivanee Thote
February 5, 2020, Pune: The Maharashtra Solar Manufacturers Association (MASMA) is protesting against Grid connect charges and any other charges on total generation from Rooftop Renewable energy systems proposed by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL).
The protest will continue for three days from today. MSEDCL in its recent Multi Year Tariff (MYT) petition to Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has proposed Grid support charges.
“These charges will completely discourage the use of Solar Energy and the renewable energy,” said, Samir Gandhi, MASMA.
Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has a target of 175 GW up to the year 2022 and further scaled it to 450 GW. According to 2003 Act, the electricity produced by a consumer with own investment for his use should not be taxed.
“India is blessed with an ample amount of solar energy and solar rooftop projects will help to reduce pollution and dependence on costly imported fossil fuel. Proposed grid support charges will stop the use of renewable energy”, said Samir Gandhi.
Mukund Gamlekar from MASMA said, “Grid support charge rooftop solar power systems will be making a big loss. Will affect the entire solar energy business and many people will become jobless. This green and clean initiative will not be affordable also it will adversely affect the economy of our state.”
The energy generated by these plants for captive consumption will be charged Rs 4.46 – Rs 10.36 based on the tariff category.
MSEDCL is offering a banking facility for exported units from Net metered systems, which may charge 8-10% of units exported and can earn handsome income.
If MSEDCL implements a subsidy scheme of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) this will benefit both consumers and MSEDCL.
“Many people, industry bodies, business associations have represented me their strong opposition for Grid Support Charges and any such charges”, said Samir Gandhi.
Maharashtra has more than 2000 MSME and small companies which generate direct employment for 5, 00, 000 people and more than 10, 00, 000 people are indirectly dependent on the solar industry.
