DISCOM Application Process
The 7-step process from application submission to commissioning, including exact timelines and DISCOM obligations under RERC regulations.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Procedural Framework
The interconnection of renewable energy systems to the DISCOM grid is governed by a strict, multi-stage regulatory protocol defined by the RERC. This framework ensures technical feasibility, transformer capacity management, and the safe deployment of grid-interactive infrastructure.
The sequence mandates strict turnaround times (TAT) for both the applicant and the DISCOM. Non-compliance with these statutory timelines by the DISCOM often results in "deemed approval" clauses, advancing the application to the subsequent stage automatically.
Prepare Your Application
Applicants must gather the necessary documentation and submit the interconnection application via the DISCOM's official online portal.
Required Data Inputs:
- Existing K-Number (Utility Account Identifier)
- Current Sanctioned Load / Contract Demand
- Proposed Renewable Energy System Capacity (kW)
- Selected Interconnection Framework (NM, NB, GNM, or VNM)
- Developer Details (EPC Contractor or RESCO)
Mandatory Document Uploads:
- Latest paid electricity bill
- Technical specifications of the solar panels and inverter
- Proof of registration fee payment
- Identity Proof (PAN / Aadhaar). For corporate entities: General Power of Attorney or Board Resolution.
- For VNM/GNM: A formalized sharing agreement executed on Rs. 100 non-judicial stamp paper detailing the exact credit allocation ratio.
Submit Application & Pay Registration Fee
Submit through the Discom's web portal / mobile app or manually at the designated Discom office. The Discom will acknowledge receipt and assign a unique registration number for online tracking.
Mandatory: provide e-mail address and mobile number. All subsequent correspondence happens via email/SMS.
Technical Feasibility Study by Discom
The Discom evaluates whether the local distribution infrastructure can support your RE system.
Special Exemption: Applications for domestic consumers up to 10 kW under NM/VNM/GNM are deemed technically feasible without requiring a formal study. Any required enhancement to the sanctioned load is executed automatically by the DISCOM.
Receive Letter of Approval (LoA)
If feasibility is confirmed, the Discom issues an LoA via email/SMS/post. This serves as the statutory clearance to commence installation.
If documentary or technical deficiencies are identified, the applicant is granted 15 days to rectify them. Failure to resolve these within the timeframe results in application cancellation.
Install the RE System
The renewable energy system must be fully installed within 180 days of receiving the LoA. Installation must strictly adhere to CEA, RERC, and IEC technical standards. Equipment must be pre-tested by the supplier with valid test certificates provided.
The consumer maintains liability for the system up to the Interconnection Point; the DISCOM assumes responsibility for infrastructure beyond that point, including the metering equipment.
Submit Installation Certificate
Upon mechanical and electrical completion, the applicant must submit the Installation Certificate to the DISCOM utilizing the prescribed format available on the official portal.
Connection Agreement, Meter Installation & Commissioning
Within 15 days of receiving the Installation Certificate, the DISCOM is legally obligated to execute the following:
- Execute Connection Agreement: Formal signing of the interconnection agreement governing the 25-year operational lifecycle.
- Meter Installation: Installation and cryptographic sealing of the Bi-directional Net Meter and/or RE Generation Meter (conducted jointly with the consumer).
- Final Commissioning: Authorization and energization of the renewable energy system for grid interaction.
Note: Consumers possess the right to procure their own compliant metering equipment, subject to testing and installation by the DISCOM.
System is Live — Billing Begins
Your RE system is now grid-connected. Meter readings are taken monthly as per the regular billing cycle. The Discom's bill will separately show: generation recorded, units consumed, billing credit, and RPO generation units used.
Connectivity to consumer/system must be granted by the Discom within 30 days from the date on which the consumer/system is declared (or deemed) technically feasible.
Quick Reference: Timeline Cheat Sheet
| Milestone | Deadline | Consequence if Missed |
|---|---|---|
| Technical feasibility study (general) | 15 days from ack. | Deemed feasible |
| Technical feasibility (VNM/GNM — new consumers) | 30 days from ack. | Deemed feasible |
| Issue Letter of Approval (LoA) | 30 days from ack. | Discom in default |
| Intimation of deficiencies to applicant | 20 working days | — |
| Consumer to resolve deficiencies | 15 days from deficiency notice | Application cancelled |
| Consumer to install RE system after LoA | 180 days | LoA deemed cancelled; re-apply |
| Discom to commission system after installation certificate | 15 days | Discom in breach |
| VNM/GNM: Connectivity after feasibility | 30 days | Discom in breach |
| Agreement termination notice (VNM/GNM) | 90 days prior notice | Agreement continues |