The application process starting date for a long-delayed net metering plan, expected to reinvigorate photovoltaic sector activity, is expected to be announced within the next few days by HEDNO, the Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator – locally acronymed DEDDIE.

HEDNO officials told energypress that the starting date for applications is expected to be set for within March.

Net metering will enable electricity consumers who generate their own power from an eligible on-site facility and deliver it to local distribution facilities to offset the electric energy provided by the utility during an applicable billing period.

HEDNO appears to have made all necessary preparations to implement a ministerial decision for the net metering plan that was signed by the country’s previous administration on December 30.

The network of HEDNO representative offices have been informed of the plan’s procedures mapped out by the operator’s administration.

Electricity suppliers – primarily PPC, the Public Power Corporation, which dominates the market – to handle billing procedures based on the electricity inflow and outflow details of self-producers, are also believed to be ready for the launch.

Self-producers will use two power meters, one measuring incoming electricity drawn from the grid, the other self-produced electricity exported to the grid. The net amount will be calculated on an annual basis.

Although current information suggests applicants will not flock to HEDNO’s offices to register, the net metering initiative is expected to reinvigorate activity in the troubled photovoltaic market. It has remained stagnant over the past two years, leading to numerous company closures and thousands of job losses.

According to the ministerial decision, net metering will be permitted for low and medium voltage self-production. It will be limited to photovoltaic systems and will not include small-scale wind energy generators. A 20 KW cap has been set for self-production, but 50 percent increases will be permitted in some cases. A lower 10 KW cap will apply to non-interconnected islands, except for Crete. Besides roof tops, PV facility installation will also be permitted at garage roof tops, gardens, even adjacent plots of land. Self-producers will be required to pay an Emission Reduction Tariff (ETMEAR) only for electricity absorbed from the grid.