Guide · Kerala
KSEB net metering: how to apply
What it takes to get rooftop solar net-metered with KSEB (Kerala State Electricity Board) in Kerala — the application process, the bidirectional meter, the typical timeline, and where to apply.
- •KSEB runs its own online rooftop-solar registration alongside the national portal.
- •For systems up to 10 kW the separate feasibility approval is generally waived.
The KSEB net-metering process, step by step
- 1
Apply on the national rooftop-solar portal
Register with your electricity account number and choose KSEB as your DISCOM. This starts your subsidy application.
- 2
KSEB feasibility check
KSEB verifies your connection and sanctioned load. Systems up to 10 kW skip this separate approval step.
- 3
Install through a registered vendor
A registered installer sets up your system and files the net-metering request with KSEB on your behalf.
- 4
Inspection & bidirectional meter
KSEB inspects the installation and fits a bidirectional (net) meter that records both the power you import and the power you export.
- 5
Commissioning & net metering activated
Once commissioned, your exported units begin offsetting the units you draw from the grid.
- 6
Subsidy credited to your bank
The central rooftop-solar subsidy is transferred directly to your bank account after commissioning — it is not deducted upfront.
Typical KSEB timeline for a home system
- 1
Site survey, shadow analysis & quote
3–7 days
A vendor checks your roof, shading and sanctioned load, then quotes.
- 2
Portal registration & DISCOM feasibility approval
7–14 days
Systems up to 10 kW skip the separate feasibility step with KSEB, so approval is quicker.
- 3
Physical installation
1–2 days
Mounting, panels, inverter and wiring — the fast part.
- 4
DISCOM inspection & bidirectional meter
7–21 days
The DISCOM inspects and fits the net (bidirectional) meter.
- 5
Commissioning & net-metering activation
2–5 days
Your export starts offsetting the grid units you draw.
- 6
Subsidy credited to your bank
30–45 daysin the background
The central rooftop-solar subsidy arrives after commissioning — it doesn't delay switch-on.
- These are typical ranges, not a quote — your installer and DISCOM circle set the real dates.
- The subsidy credit lands about a month after commissioning and doesn't delay when your system switches on.
- Rules and timelines change. Last verified 2026-07-08.
Planning a larger or commercial system? Try the interactive install-timeline tool →
Rules and timelines change. Last verified 2026-07-08. KSEB website · National rooftop-solar portal
See what solar saves — and let an installer handle KSEB
Run a free estimate for your home, then compare Kerala installers who manage the KSEB net-metering application for you.
KSEB net metering — frequently asked
Who applies for KSEB net metering — me or my installer?
Your registered installer usually files the KSEB net-metering application and arranges the bidirectional meter as part of the project. Confirm it is included when you compare quotes.
How long does KSEB net metering take?
Typically a few weeks for approvals, plus about a month for the subsidy to be credited after commissioning. It varies by circle and sanctioned load — treat KSEB's portal as the source of truth for current timelines.
Do I need feasibility approval for a small rooftop system?
For systems up to 10 kW the separate technical-feasibility approval is generally waived, which speeds up the whole process.
Which meter do I need for net metering?
A bidirectional (net) meter that records both the power you import from and export to the grid. KSEB installs it during the inspection step.
Does the subsidy come through KSEB?
The central rooftop-solar subsidy is transferred directly to your bank account after commissioning. KSEB handles the grid connection and the net meter, not the subsidy payout.