Policy and Regulatory Framework Influencing Rooftop Solar Adoption in Karnataka
Author : Manjeshgowda DB and Dr. TS Devaraja
Abstract :
This study examines the policy and regulatory frameworks influencing the adoption of rooftop solar photovoltaic (RTPV) systems in Karnataka, India, with a specific focus on government subsidies, net metering, and tariff policies. Despite Karnataka’s early leadership in renewable energy and progressive initiatives by institutions like the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) and Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL), rooftop solar adoption remains below its technical and policy potential. Combining research and analysis of policies, this paper finds that major implementation problems, including strict capacity limits, delays in the process, less funding for utilities, and not enough awareness among consumers, are stopping the large-scale rollout of renewable energy. According to studies from India and around the world, the quality of Karnataka’s regulations is not achieved due to poor implementation and misalignment among different entities. The paper ends by providing suggestions for increasing the use of the technology. Revising the tariffs, eliminating the restrictions on capacity, improving the way subsidies are handled, and increasing the level of transparency and consumer focus are needed. These changes are necessary to maximise RTPV’s benefits and help Karnataka find climate and energy security.
Keywords :
Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic (RTPV), Karnataka, Net Metering, Solar Tariffs, Renewable Energy Policy, Decentralised Energy, Government Subsidies.
