Understanding Net Metering

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and the sustainable, renewable power of solar energy—how can you make heads or tails of it all? There are a lot of terms and systems to understand as you start to design the perfect solar system for your home’s energy independence. And though it may not be as simple as slapping some solar PV panels on your roof and calling it a day, understanding the ins and outs of renewable electricity for your home or business is made much simpler when you can relationship between your home’s solar energy and net metering.

The Basics of Solar Energy

If you’re looking into solar energy for your home, you likely already have some understanding of how solar energy works: Solar panels are mounted on your roof or property, the photovoltaic effect converts the sun’s rays into energy, and that energy is then sent to your home to power your appliances, gadgets, lights etc. This energy is green and renewable and reduces your carbon footprint.

But what about when the sun isn’t shining, like at night? Or what if your home isn’t using up all that renewable energy during peak sunlight hours?

Net Metering: For When You’re Too Efficient

Solar panel technology has become much more productive in recent decades. The average cost-per-watt has been reduced to half of what it was ten years ago, meaning solar panels are much more efficient at converting the sun’s rays into energy. Your new solar array is more than likely going to produce more energy than your home can use during the daytime, so what can you do with the excess green energy? Sell it back to your energy utility! This is known as “net metering.”

Your solar panels cannot produce energy while the sun is down, so without a way to store that excess energy, your home will still need to be connected to the power grid. When you have excess energy during the day, that energy is funneled back into the grid and bought back by your electricity company at a predetermined rate. This usually comes in the form of a credit on your energy bill —which will offset some or most of the the cost of the grid electricity you use overnight.

Still Have Questions? Talk to a Sky Power Solar Specialist

There are a lot of i’s to dot and t’s to cross when it comes to designing the perfect solar installation project for your home or business. California is particularly positioned to provide you with renewable energy when you trust the experts with your solar installation, and Sky Power Solar has someone standing by to answer all of your questions. From our headquarters in San Ramon, our expert solar installation team services the Tri Valley Area, including Alameda, Contra Costa, Solano, San Joaquin, Santa Clara, and San Jose.

Understanding how solar energy works is key to conserving energy and reducing your carbon footprint. Schedule your free solar quote with Sky Power Solar by calling (925) 202-2783 or contacting us today!