What is Net-Metering?
In California (and 33 other states) consumers can install grid-connected renewable energy systems under a program called “net metering”. With net metering, a system (using a meter that reads inflows and outflows of electricity) can sell any excess power that it generates to the utility to offset any consumption. It requires the utility to give full retail credit for electricity “sold back” in this manner. Net metering provides a simple, standardized method for connecting renewable energy systems into the electricity grid that ensures safety and power quality and encourages the use of renewable energy systems. (Visit www.dsireusa.org for a current list of states with net metering laws.
Net metering is an agreement between a power producer and the public utility that credits power users for electricity they send back into the grid. Under net metering, the user is paid the full retail rate for this power. For solar PV systems, this is important because extra power that is produced during the day can essentially be stored in the grid and used at night.
Net metering is a regulation that obliges utilities to allow excess energy generated by PV systems to be sent to the grid, thus spinning the meter backward. This arrangement allows all electricity produced by your BP Solar Home Solution® to be used to offset the remaining portion of your utility bill.
A. In most states, consumers can install small, grid-connected renewable energy systems to reduce their electricity bills using a protocol called net metering. Under net metering, electricity produced by the renewable energy system can flow into the utility grid, spinning the existing electricity meter backwards. Other than the renewable energy system, no special equipment is needed.
