Nagpur: Terming the latest order by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) as enforcing an “anti-industry tariff structure,” the Vidarbha Industries Association (VIA) warned that the decision to levy Grid Support Charges on gross solar generation will deliver a “death blow” to rooftop solar, severely impacting the viability of net-metering projects and eroding industry confidence in renewable energy investments.In a statement, VIA said the MERC has effectively reinstated the same tariff structures that were part of the June 25, 2025, review order, which was earlier quashed by the Bombay high court for bypassing mandatory public consultation. Although fresh hearings were conducted following court directions, the VIA claimed that inputs from industry stakeholders were largely disregarded.Urging intervention from chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, VIA president Prashant Mohota said immediate steps are needed to prevent adverse impacts on industries and ensure their continued operations.VIA further contested the assertion by Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) that tariffs have not increased. It argued that when fixed demand charges, Fuel Adjustment Cost (FAC), and Tax on Sale (ToS) are factored in, the effective landed cost of power for industrial consumers now exceeds ₹11 per unit, making Maharashtra one of the costliest states for electricity.A major concern flagged by the association is the introduction of Grid Support Charges (GSC) on rooftop solar. The order mandates levying GSC on gross generation instead of only surplus power exported to the grid. VIA termed the move regressive, stating it penalises consumers for power generated and consumed within their premises, despite already paying demand charges. It warned that the decision could hurt the viability of net-metering models and dampen investments in renewable energy.The association also raised objections to revised banking provisions for open access to solar consumers. Under the new rules, banked energy can be utilised only for eight hours daily, compared to 17 hours earlier, with unused power lapsing at month-end. The retrospective implementation from July 2025 could lead to significant financial liabilities, VIA said.
