In conclusion: a clean three-way comparison
All three options can reduce your bill. The difference is certainty. Gross and Net Metering are valid, useful CEB schemes — but their monthly outcome stays tied to CEB tariff rules. Off-grid is the only option that structurally removes that exposure, which is what makes a long-term guaranteed reduction possible.
CEB Only Supply
The reference point — buying every kWh from CEB with no solar. Every option below is measured against this monthly bill.
Total monthly bill
Rs 3,821
530 kWh @ domestic tariff
Gross Metering
Actual total monthly cost
Rs 7,797
incl. Rs 7,000 PV payback
CEB bill: Pay Rs 797
Useful reduction, but still a CEB bill that moves with tariff rules.
Net Metering
Actual total monthly cost
Rs 6,668
incl. Rs 7,000 PV payback
CEB result: Credit Rs 332
Best on-grid result in this example — yet still tariff-dependent.
Off-Grid PV + BESS
Actual total monthly cost
Rs 3,171
PV payback bundled in
CEB bill: Rs 0 · −17%
Removes the CEB bill; fixed charge 17% below CEB with 24h support.
| How they compare | Gross Metering | Net Metering | Off-Grid PV + BESS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baseline cost — 100% from CEB | Rs 3,821 | Rs 3,821 | Rs 3,821 |
| Example monthly CEB result | Pay Rs 797 | Credit Rs 332 | Rs 0 |
| Asset repayment (÷ 60 months) | + Rs 7,000 | + Rs 7,000 | bundled |
| Actual total monthly cost | Rs 7,797 | Rs 6,668 | Rs 3,171 |
| Stays connected to grid | |||
| Removes CEB bill entirely | |||
| Exposed to CEB tariff rules | |||
| Guaranteed monthly reduction | |||
| Predictable fixed cost | |||
| Grid acts as backup | |||
| 24-hour support required |
If the goal is a guaranteed, sustainable reduction in your monthly electricity cost versus buying every kWh from CEB, off-grid PV + battery is the clearest route — it removes the CEB import/export mechanism, fixes your cost at 17% below CEB, and is backed by 24-hour support. Gross and Net Metering remain excellent ways to reduce bills if you prefer to stay grid-connected.
Quick decision guide
Illustrative household: 720 kWh produced, 240 kWh imported, 430 kWh exported, 530 kWh used, June 2026. Excludes equipment finance, O&M and 24-hour support fees except where stated. Educational guidance only — not an official CEB invoice or tariff ruling. Sources: CEB Solar PV Scheme (Households) 2026 leaflet; CEB Domestic Tariff; CEB Customer Information.