How Does Solar Net Metering Affect a Residential System?

If you are thinking about going solar, then it is likely that you are asking questions about how net metering will affect your system. Our team at New Day Solar is here to answer your questions about all things solar, including net metering.

Why Net Metering Matters

The concept of net metering is based on the utility billing techniques that are used for homes with solar power. In most states, the utility companies will offer a credit for business and residential customers who have excess energy from the solar panel systems. This excess energy is sent back to the grid for credits.

During the daylight hours, it is common for the solar power system to produce more energy than what you are using in your home.  When the sun goes down, you won’t be able to pull from the solar energy, because the system shuts down at dusk. So, it is necessary for your home to pull electricity from the grid if you want to use electricity in the evening hours.

With net metering, you only pay utility costs on the “net” energy that is used every month. The utility company will calculate the difference between the energy that is consumed from the grid and the energy (that extra energy) that is produced by your solar power system.

Energy Credits for When You Need Electricity

Net Metering creates a push and pull with your utility company.  If you are producing more electricity, than you house is using with your solar system, you push electricity back on to the grid, creating credits.  If you are not producing enough electricity from your solar system to cover the amount of power your home is using, you will need to pull electricity from the grid.

If you are using a net metering system on your home, you might see the meter go backward. These credits can often be used for electricity when it isn’t sunny outside, when you are using electricity at night, after the sun goes down or when you are using more power than you are producing from your solar electric system during the day. The laws and rules change depending on the area where you live. So, the best solution is to talk to an experienced solar electric installation company for details about the net metering laws in your neighborhood.

A well designed and installed solar power system can help you save hundreds of dollars on energy bills each year. It is worth the investment to save money, while protecting our planet at the same time! For more information about a solar electric system for your home, you need to talk to our team at New Day Solar. We have 30 years of experience installing solar electric systems and will always answer your questions honestly.  Give us a call to set up a no obligation consultation at: (855) 444-6329 or visit us online at:  www.newdaysolar.com.