Guides

Net Metering Explained: How You Get Paid for Solar Energy

·5 min read

Net metering is a billing arrangement that allows solar homeowners to receive credit for excess electricity they send back to the grid.

How It Works

When your solar panels produce more electricity than you're using, the excess flows back to the grid. Your utility credits you for this energy, typically at the retail rate.

Why It Matters

Net metering can significantly improve your solar savings by ensuring you get full value for all the energy your system produces, beyond what you consume directly.

State Policies Vary

Net metering policies vary by state and utility. Some states mandate full retail-rate net metering, while others have moved to reduced compensation rates.

Written & reviewed by

EnergyTools Research Team — Solar Energy Research Group

The EnergyTools Research Team compiles and verifies residential solar data from NREL, EPA, and state utility commissions. Methodology is reviewed quarterly.

  • Source data: NREL PVWatts V8 + Utility Rates V3 APIs
  • Source data: EPA FuelEconomy.gov vehicle efficiency data
  • Methodology reviewed quarterly

Methodology & data sources:NREL PVWatts, EPA FuelEconomy.gov, state utility commissions— updated 2026.