Higher tariffs could lengthen payback periods and weaken the shift to clean energy.

Solar Grid Charges May Hamper Rooftop Solar Growth, Warn Experts.

Energy specialists and activists have warned that newly approved solar grid support charges and time-of-day tariffs could deter residential communities and industries from installing rooftop solar power. In a recent order, the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission approved a proposal by Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd to impose grid support charges on rooftop solar projects exceeding 10 kW capacity. Under the order dated 25 March, the charges will begin at ₹1.96 per unit in 2026–27 and gradually increase to ₹2.32 per unit by 2029–30. These charges are intended to cover grid maintenance and balancing costs and will come into effect after rooftop solar capacity exceeded 5,000 MW in MSEDCL’s supply area earlier this year. Activist Vivek Velankar stated that large housing societies often install systems well above 10 kW, and the additional charges could prolong investment recovery periods by two to three years, potentially dampening enthusiasm for adopting cleaner energy.