Karnataka's Rooftop Solar Systems Stalled Amid Occupancy Certificate Confusion
Solar power stalled: Rooftop systems stuck in limbo amid OC confusion
The Times Of IndiaImage: The Times Of India
In Karnataka, nearly 300,000 households with rooftop solar systems are unable to connect to the power grid due to confusion over occupancy certificates (OC), resulting in a daily loss of 23 MW of clean energy. The state government is urged to resolve this issue to prevent further financial losses and support renewable energy goals.
- 01Approximately 300,000 households in Karnataka have installed rooftop solar systems but cannot connect to the grid due to OC issues.
- 02The delay has led to an estimated daily loss of 23 MW of clean energy generation.
- 03Property owners face financial losses, with investments totaling around ₹150 crore (approximately $18 million USD) sitting idle.
- 04The Karnataka Renewable Energy Association (KREA) emphasizes the need for clear regulations to facilitate grid connectivity.
- 05The state government is considering relaxing OC requirements for larger buildings to alleviate the situation.
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In Karnataka, confusion surrounding occupancy certificates (OC) has left nearly 300,000 households with rooftop solar systems unable to connect to the power grid for almost a year. This regulatory limbo has resulted in an estimated loss of 23 MW of clean energy generation daily, alongside significant financial repercussions for homeowners, with investments totaling around ₹150 crore (approximately $18 million USD) remaining unutilized. The Karnataka State Licensed Electrical Contractors’ Association (KSLECA) reports that 15-16 lakh applications for smart meter installations are pending, despite government relaxations on OC requirements for smaller plots. Raghunandan SS, president of the Karnataka Renewable Energy Association (KREA), highlights that the lack of OC from town planning authorities prevents the installation of necessary meters by electricity supply companies (Escoms). Stakeholders are urging the government to establish a clear mechanism for rooftop solar systems to connect to the grid while resolving OC-related issues. Additionally, the government is considering extending OC relief to larger buildings, which could further support Karnataka's renewable energy ambitions.
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The ongoing confusion over occupancy certificates is causing significant financial losses for homeowners and preventing the utilization of clean energy.
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