Final Order in Case No. 198 of 2025 Varun Non compliance of Net Billing Adjustment for Rooftop Solar Plant – EQ
Summary:
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### **Background & Issue**
* Varun Beverages Limited (VBL) filed a compliance petition under Section 142 of the Electricity Act, 2003 against MSEDCL.
* The petition alleged that MSEDCL failed to implement MERC’s earlier Order (18 June 2025), which mandated Net Billing for VBL’s 3833 kW rooftop solar plant.
### **VBL’s Key Claims**
* MSEDCL did not provide Net Billing adjustments from May 2025 onwards, despite a signed Net Billing Agreement.
* The delay caused financial loss to VBL—claimed overbilling of approx. **Rs. 76 lakh**.
* MSEDCL continued gross metering even after MERC’s explicit directions.
* VBL sought urgent listing and strict action for non-compliance.
### **MSEDCL’s Position**
* Stated that ambiguities existed in the DOA (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2023 regarding simultaneous Open Access and Net Metering/Billing.
* Highlighted that a clarificatory petition (Case No. 232 of 2024) was already pending before MERC.
* Claimed current billing methodology was continued until regulatory clarity is provided.
* Nevertheless, agreed to comply “under protest.”
### **MERC’s Interim Direction (9 Sept 2025)**
* Directed MSEDCL to comply with Case No. 129 of 2024 **within 15 days**.
* Allowed MSEDCL the liberty to make future adjustments after the outcome of Case No. 232 of 2024.
### **Subsequent Compliance by MSEDCL**
* Net Billing Agreement executed on **15 May 2025**.
* Energy bills for **May–August 2025** revised on Net Billing basis.
* Credit adjustments incorporated in **September 2025** bill.
* VBL confirmed receipt of Net Billing adjustments.
### **MERC’s Final Findings**
* MSEDCL has **fully complied** with the 18 June 2025 Order.
* No grounds exist for penalty or action under Section 142 of the Electricity Act.
* The compliance petition thus **stands resolved**.
### **Outstanding Regulatory Issue (Separate Case)**
* Issues regarding credit adjustment methodology for **simultaneous Open Access + Net Metering/Billing** remain under adjudication in Case No. 232 of 2024.
* MERC has formed a **Working Group** to submit its report within two months.
### **Final Order**
* Case No. 198 of 2025 and IA No. 105 of 2025 are **disposed of**.
* No further directions or penalties imposed on MSEDCL.
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