Net metering or net energy metering is a solar incentive that helps you to store energy in the electric grid. In case extra energy is produced, this energy is sent to the grid in exchange for credits. During night time or during cloudy days, you can pull energy from the grid and use these credits to offset the cost of this energy. Solar net metering allows commercial and residential users who generate energy using solar power to sell the electricity that doesn’t go back into the grid. Basically, the customers are billed for the net energy used.
How does solar net metering work?
The net meter works in both directions, one way to measure power purchased and the other way to measure power returned to the grid. The customer, in this case, pays the net of both transactions. The main service panel is used to connect the utility grid to solar power systems. When more power is generated at the site, excess electricity is returned to the grid through the power meter, thereby reversing the meter from its usual direction.
Benefits of solar net metering
This policy makes solar energy more affordable and attractive for users. It helps to reduce your electricity cost and also helps to create small power generation units in every corner of the country. The benefits of solar net metering are-
- It helps in saving the cost of expensive batteries.
- Require no maintenance.
- It helps the user to be a part of the greener environment.
- Customers can get control over their electricity bills.
- It helps to trim peak load demand during the day and reduces load shedding.
- Commercial users can save on huge electricity bills and utilize this money for the expansion of their businesses.
Devices you need for net metering
When you wish to get your home or office net-metered, you need to install the following systems in the given order-
- Inverter
- Home Electric Panel
- Utility Meter
- Utility Grid
Customers can now gain control over their electricity
This is the best way to get control over electricity. It allows customers to generate their own electricity efficiently and cleanly. The pro-solar customers who produce more electricity than they consume can export that power to the grid and reduce their future electricity bills. This practice acts as a blessing during summer days when the electricity bills shoot up drastically.
How does net metering help in creating more jobs?
Solar net metering provides significant economic benefits in terms of investment, jobs, and income. It increases the demand for solar energy which further creates jobs for electricians, manufacturers, and installers who are a part of the solar supply chain. Also, due to this policy, many private customers are encouraged to make an investment in generating solar energy.
Solar net metering is a great policy that encourages more people to harness the sun’s unlimited and clean energy and save on their electricity bills. This, in turn, provides a greener environment for the community.
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