Open Access Solar in Maharashtra: Game Changer for Large Power Users

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Open Access Solar in Maharashtra: Game Changer for Large Power Users

Open Access Solar - Game Changer for Large Power Users

Maharashtra has become a leading hub for renewable energy, with rapid adoption of open access solar solutions across industries. As both private enterprises and public sectors explore greener energy alternatives, open access solar in Maharashtra has emerged as a practical and scalable option. It allows large power consumers to directly source solar electricity from off-site producers offering savings, sustainability and operational reliability.

This system is helping accelerate solar energy in Maharashtra by reducing dependency on local DISCOMs and empowering industries with cleaner, cheaper power alternatives.

What Is Open Access Solar and Why It Matters?

Open access solar power allows eligible consumers, especially large Commercial and Industrial (C&I) establishments to buy power directly from solar energy plants in Maharashtra, bypassing local distribution networks. Established under the Electricity Act, 2003, the open access solar policy promotes competition and consumer choice.

Unlike rooftop systems, open access solar power plants are typically utility-scale facilities located off-site. Companies with limited space can still benefit from renewable energy by connecting to these distant plants via the grid. This model also contributes significantly to solar power generation in Maharashtra, enabling factories, data centers, and industrial estates to decarbonize rapidly.

Open Access Solar Policy in Maharashtra

The open access solar policy Maharashtra operates under the Green Energy Open Access (GEOA) Rules, 2022, introduced by Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC). This regulation supports direct procurement of renewable power, with key provisions including:

  • Metering Norms: Special Energy Meters (HT) & ToD meters (LT)
  • Nodal Agencies: SLDC for short-term; STU for medium and long-term open access
  • Exemptions: Green energy for hydrogen/ammonia and waste-to-energy use are exempt from additional surcharges
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Understanding the Open Access Solar Process

Let’s understand the process of Open Access Solar plant installation—where clean energy is captured at off-site solar farms, converted, and delivered via the grid to your facility, enabling cost savings and sustainable operations without disruption. This model supports both open access solar power plant deployments and open access solar projects across Maharashtra.

  1. Energy is Captured at the Plant
    Solar arrays installed at large off-site farms like a 1 MW solar power plant in Maharashtra harness sunlight using photovoltaic cells.
  2. Electricity is Generated and Converted
    Solar panels produce DC power, which is then converted to AC using high-efficiency inverters.
  3. Power Is Transmitted via Grid
    The AC electricity is transmitted to the consumer using existing infrastructure, following scheduling by SLDC.
  4. Power Is Used by the Consumer
    The factory or facility uses the energy just like regular grid electricity, without operational changes.
  5. Excess Energy Is Managed via Net Metering
    Surplus power can be fed back to the grid and credited under net metering, improving cost efficiency.

Cost Comparison: Grid vs Open Access Solar

Industrial users in Maharashtra typically face high grid tariffs, which significantly impact operational expenses. Open Access Solar offers a compelling alternative by providing cleaner electricity at competitive rates—while also offering long-term financial benefits.

Though Open Access Solar includes additional charges like wheeling, transmission, and banking, the overall cost per unit remains favorable compared to traditional grid power. Over time, businesses switching to solar through open access arrangements can realize substantial monthly and annual savings on electricity bills.

The return on investment (ROI) for Open Access Solar projects is also attractive. Most industrial users begin seeing positive cash flow within a few years, with a clear payback period that aligns well with financial planning cycles. When paired with incentives, renewable purchase obligations (RPO) compliance, and green energy branding, the shift becomes not only cost-effective but also strategically advantageous.

By leveraging expert planning, energy audits, and customized solar solutions from GSE Renewable Energy, factories and commercial users can optimize savings while ensuring uninterrupted energy access.

Benefits of Open Access Solar for Industries

Let’s explore how open access solar offer benefits to industries such as cut energy costs, lock in stable tariffs, meet sustainability goals &  gain a competitive edge through reliable, clean power.

  1. Consumer Choice and Flexibility: Businesses can now choose their energy supplier and contract terms. With growing open access solar projects, this flexibility translates into better rates and service reliability.
  2. Support for Renewable Energy Goals: Sourcing power from solar farms expands the state’s renewable footprint and drives cleaner solar energy in Maharashtra.
  3. Stable and Predictable Tariffs: Energy cost volatility is reduced through long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs), allowing financial planning and savings.
  4. Boosts Grid Resilience: Open access solar power decentralizes electricity supply, reducing load on the grid and enhancing resilience.
  5. Fast Track to Net Zero: With decarbonization becoming a boardroom priority, open access solar becomes a key tool in achieving sustainability targets.
  6. Drives Technological Innovation: Digital metering, AI-based energy forecasting, and smart scheduling are emerging with rising open access participation.
  7. Local Job Creation: Development of solar parks and transmission infrastructure spurs employment across engineering, EPC, and O&M functions.
  8. Reduces T&D Losses: Distributed generation ensures more efficient energy delivery with lower technical losses.

How GSE Helps Industries Implement Open Access Solar

GSE Renewable Energy provides end-to-end support for industrial open access solar projects:

  • SLDC & MSEDCL Approval Management
    Navigating the regulatory landscape can be complex. GSE handles all approvals required from the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) and MSEDCL, ensuring your project complies and is fast-tracked.
  • Flexible Open Access Solar Models
    Whether you prefer captive, group-captive, or third-party PPA models, GSE structures solutions tailored to your energy needs, investment strategy, and compliance goals.
  • Land Procurement & Engineering
    For ground-mounted plants, GSE assists in sourcing suitable land and managing the full engineering scope—from site assessments to civil preparation
  • PPA Structuring & Power Offtake
    GSE negotiates Power Purchase Agreements that lock in favorable long-term tariffs, protect against market volatility, and align with regulatory frameworks.
  • Load Management & DSM Integration
    Through smart load studies and demand-side measures, GSE ensures your consumption aligns with solar generation, maximizing utilization and cost savings.
  • Long-Term O&M & Remote Monitoring
    Beyond installation, GSE delivers performance tracking, predictive maintenance, and operational monitoring, guaranteeing optimal output throughout the plant’s lifecycle

With GSE’s comprehensive services from regulatory clearances to ongoing performance monitoring industrial clients can confidently transition to efficient and scalable open access solar solutions.

Conclusion

With favorable policies, robust infrastructure, and rising industrial demand, Open Access Solar in Maharashtra is revolutionizing the way power is procured and consumed. It’s not just a cost-saving opportunity it’s a strategic move toward sustainable growth. If you’re an industrial consumer looking to reduce costs and emissions, open access solar power in Maharashtra offers the most scalable solution available today.

Ready to make the switch?

Partner with GSE Renewable Energy and take charge of your energy future one solar energy plant in Maharashtra at a time.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Open Access Solar in Maharashtra

1. What is Open Access Solar in Maharashtra?

 It allows large consumers to purchase power from an off-site solar energy plant in Maharashtra, using the grid for delivery while reducing dependency on DISCOMs.

2. Is Open Access Solar cheaper than grid electricity?

Yes. Typical savings range from 25–40%. While grid power costs ₹9–12/unit, open access solar delivers electricity at ₹5.50–₹7.00/unit.

3. Can I invest in a 1 MW Solar Power Plant?

Yes. Industrial consumers with 1 MW load or more can invest in a 1 MW solar power plant in Maharashtra under a captive model with 26% equity.

4. What are the requirements for Open Access Solar?

To successfully implement Open Access Solar, businesses must meet specific regulatory, technical & contractual requirements that ensure smooth energy transmission and compliance with state electricity boards.

  • Minimum Contract Demand of 1 MW: The consumer must have a sanctioned contract demand of at least 1 megawatt with the distribution utility.
  • Approvals from SLDC/MSEDCL: Prior permissions must be obtained from the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) and Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) for connectivity and energy drawal.
  • Compliant Energy Metering System: Installation of Special Energy Meters (ABT compliant) is mandatory to measure and monitor energy flow accurately.
    Signed Banking and Scheduling Agreements: Agreements for banking (storing surplus power) and day-ahead scheduling must be in place to manage solar power usage and grid interaction.
5. How long does it take to implement a project?

If the power is sourced from existing solar farms, the implementation timeline typically ranges from 60 to 90 days. However, if you’re setting up a new captive solar power plant, the process may take approximately 6 to 9 months, depending on land acquisition, regulatory approvals, and infrastructure development.

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