How Solar Net Metering Can Save You Money

If you're from Australia and your state offers net metering, solar energy is a great option. Learn why in this blog post.

Solar net metering is a billing practise that utilities use to encourage residential solar panel adoption by their customers. Because solar panels produce excess energy during the day but not at night, the cost of installing a standalone solar system is much higher than average.

Utilities that implement net metering policies are allowing customers to offset their monthly utility bill with excess solar energy production instead of selling it back to the grid at a lower rate. This article covers everything you need to know about net metering solar and why it matters as more and more utilities offer it as an option for their customers.

What is net metering?

How does net metering work?

Types of Solar Net Metering Agreements

There are two types of solar net metering agreements in Australia, here's the difference between net and gross metering:

Gross Metering

This is the original type of net metering arrangement and is still offered by some electricity retailers. Gross Metering is when all the solar electricity generated is exported into the grid. With gross metering, you will receive a credit on your bill for all of the excess electricity that your system produces, regardless of exactly how much electricity actually use.

Net Metering

This is the more common type of arrangement and is offered by most electricity retailers. With net metering, you will only receive a credit for the excess solar electricity that your system produces if you actually use it. If you don’t use it, then the excess solar electricity will be exported back into the grid.

There are a number of benefits associated with net metering, including:

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Net metering can help to reduce your carbon footprint, as it encourages the use of solar power or renewable energy.

Power More Than One Building

If you have grid-connected solar power, you can use the excess electricity that it produces to power more than one building.

Reduced Electricity Bills

Net metering can help to reduce your electricity bills, as you will only be charged for the "net" amount of electricity that you use each month.

Net metering is a great way to save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint. If you’re thinking of installing solar power, make sure to ask your electricity retailer about their net metering arrangements.

Who can participate in net metering?

Most states and territories in Australia offer some form of net metering, below are the cities or states that offer Net Metering:

• Adelaide
• Alice Springs
• Blacktown
• Central Victoria
• Moreland
• Perth
• Townsville
  

If you’re thinking of installing a solar PV system, it’s important to check whether you’re eligible for net metering in your state or territory. You can find out more information from your local government or electricity retailer.

Share Your Energy

Start saving today by switching to solar power and net metering. You could save money on your electricity bills and do your bit to reduce your carbon footprint.

Solar power is a great renewable energy source that can help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint. If you’re thinking of installing a solar PV system, contact GES Energy. We can help you to find the best solar power system for your needs and budget.