Net energy metering might sound like electrically advanced jargon, but its concept is actually quite simple. It’s an accounting system that credits solar owners for adding electricity to the grid. Imagine exchanging your excess cookies with neighbors in exchange for slices or pizza.
Understanding net energy measurement can transform a good solar decision into something spectacular. Let’s examine its sparks & wires.
The dance between how much electricity you generate and consume from the power grid is what scores this solar narrative. If your panels produce more electricity than your home uses, the excess does not just disappear. Instead, they are sent back to power the municipal grid. You’re not spinning your meter forwards. Instead, you’re pocketing the energy credits as if you were a skilled arcade gamer.
Imagine the time during the day when darkness prevails and the sun has punched off from its celestial watch. Your solar panels will be of little help in these dark hours. You can use your accumulated credits to offset the cost of utility power. Your utility bills are offset by them taking the field. The tag team is keeping your electricity bills low, which, we must admit, is pretty impressive. It’s akin, for example, to teaching your pet to fetch the newspaper, without having to eat it first.
On cloudy or rainy days when your solar cells receive less sunlight, than a pickled shrimp sees grains, you may wonder how accurate the meter reading is. Does the benefit from net energy meters outlast these less sunny periods? Do not worry. Your system is connected to the grid, which ensures a consistent supply of energy, despite Mother Nature’s mood changes. Your previous credits will fill in financial dips and peaks.
Considering a yearly cycle–because let’s face it, seasons spin round like a merry-go-round–homes usually generate more electricity than they consume during summer’s sun-soaked days. This surplus energy goes back to grid and accumulates in your meter credit. Winter’s ballerina often reverses the role, drawing down credits when solar generation dips.
What sound do you hear when you listen to the radio? The meter flipping both ways does not only help you, it stabilizes your electric grid. In addition to protecting the grid, net metering houses also help reduce the load during peak sun-roasted times.
It gets even more interesting (as usual) when the state policies come into play. The impact of net metering varies depending on which state you are in. Some states treat surplus energy like a generous uncle, paying full retail rates. Others might offer wholesale rates instead, which could take the wind out of you sails.
Be sure to test the local waters first before launching your solar voyage. Check your state policies for net energy metering and take into consideration any financial incentives that might be available to you. Consulting with local solar installers can be similar to finding someone who is a good navigator and knows how to guide you in the fog.