Net Metering | Solar Panels, Battery Storage, Roofing, HVAC
Imagine a future where your energy bills are dramatically reduced, you're less reliant on the grid, and your home's carbon footprint is significantly smaller. This isn't the plot of a futuristic sci-fi novel. It's a reality that can be achieved with solar panels, a powerful and efficient tool harnessing an infinite energy source: the sun. Whether you're considering solar panels for financial reasons, environmental benefits or power independence, this blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about making the critical switch to solar energy. Installing solar panels can offer numerous benefits, including reducing or eliminating electricity bills, decreasing your carbon footprint and environmental impact, increasing property value, and potentially qualifying for tax incentives and rebates. Additionally, solar energy helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and contributes to a cleaner future. Understanding Solar Panel Types When it comes to going solar, understanding the different types of solar panels available is essential. Each type has its unique characteristics and advantages, catering to various needs and situations. One common type of solar panel is the standard solar panel, which primarily consists of photovoltaic (PV) cells. These panels are made from crystalline silicon, which is the most widely used material in solar panel production. Crystalline silicon panels can be further categorized into two subtypes: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline panels are designed with PV cells made from a single crystal structure. This results in a sleek black appearance and high energy efficiency, making them popular among homeowners. These panels perform well in limited space due to their higher power density. Polycrystalline panels, on the other hand, consist of PV cells made from multiple fragments of silicon. They have a blue hue and are generally less efficient than their monocrystalline counterparts but come at a lower cost. While standard solar panels use crystalline silicon as the main material, there are also alternative options worth exploring. Now that we have a basic understanding of solar panel types let's dive deeper into standard solar panels and their features. Standard Solar Panels Standard solar panels are widely used due to their reliability and established track record in the industry. As mentioned earlier, they are typically made from either monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon. Both types have their pros and cons, allowing homeowners to choose based on their specific needs. Monocrystalline panels are known for their high efficiency, as the manufacturing process ensures a uniform crystal structure that facilitates better electron flow. This results in greater electricity generation per square foot of panel area. Additionally, monocrystalline panels tend to perform better in low-light conditions, making them an excellent choice for regions with less sunlight exposure. Polycrystalline panels, while slightly less efficient than monocrystalline panels, still provide reliable energy generation. With multiple fragments of silicon within each cell, they offer good performance at a more affordable price point. They can be a practical option for homeowners who prioritize cost-effectiveness without sacrificing too much on energy output. It's worth noting that both standard solar panel types have undergone significant advancements over the years, resulting in improved efficiency and aesthetics. Solar manufacturers continue to innovate and refine the technology behind these panels, ensuring maximum energy production and durability. When selecting standard solar panels, it's important to consider factors such as space availability, budget constraints, and average sunlight exposure in your location. Consulting with solar professionals can provide valuable guidance regarding the best choice for your specific circumstances. Portable Solar Panels Portable solar panels offer a convenient and versatile solution for harnessing solar energy on the go. Whether you're camping, hiking, or traveling in your RV, these compact and lightweight panels enable you to tap into the abundant power of the sun wherever you are. Imagine setting up camp in a remote location, far away from any electrical outlets, and being able to charge your devices or power your small appliances using only sunlight. Portable solar panels provide this freedom and independence, making them incredibly popular among outdoor enthusiasts and eco-conscious individuals alike. Picture yourself embarking on a weekend camping trip with your family. Instead of relying on traditional methods of generating electricity such as gas-powered generators or batteries that require constant replacements, you choose to bring along a portable solar panel kit. As you set up camp under the clear blue sky, you unfold your compact and lightweight solar panels, positioning them to capture the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day. Within minutes, you have a sustainable source of power at your fingertips. Portable solar panels come in various sizes and wattage capacities to accommodate different energy needs. Some panels are designed primarily for charging small electronics like smartphones or tablets, while larger ones can provide enough power to run larger devices such as laptops or even small appliances like mini-fridges. The convenience of these panels is further enhanced by features like built-in USB ports or AC outlets, allowing you to directly connect your devices without needing any additional converters or adapters. Now that we have explored the convenience and versatility of portable solar panels, let's take a closer look at the advantages of solar power in general. According to a report by IREC, a non-profit organization, every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar energy reduces the grid's CO2 emissions by at least 0.86 lbs. Solar panels can cut down electricity bills by 70% or more according to data from the U.S. Department of Energy. Advantages of Solar Power Solar power offers numerous advantages, making it a compelling choice for homeowners and businesses alike. One of the most significant benefits is its potential to significantly reduce energy costs. By installing solar panels on your property, you can generate your own clean and renewable electricity, reducing reliance on utility-provided power. This translates into substantial savings on your monthly electricity bills, especially over the long term. Additionally, with net metering programs in many areas, excess energy generated by your solar system can be sold back to the grid, further offsetting your expenses or even resulting in credits on future bills. Consider this scenario: You live in a sunny region and decide to install solar panels on your roof. As a result, you're able to cover a significant portion - if not all - of your home's energy consumption with the electricity generated by those panels. Not only are you saving money by not needing to purchase as much electricity from the grid, but you may also qualify for incentives like tax credits or rebates offered by federal or state governments. Over time, these financial benefits can add up substantially, allowing you to allocate those saved funds towards other priorities or investments. Beyond financial gains, solar power offers environmental advantages as well. It is a renewable and clean source of energy that produces no greenhouse gas emissions during operation. This means that by utilizing solar energy instead of traditional fossil fuels, you are contributing to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. The positive impact on the environment cannot be overstated, as widespread adoption of solar power has the potential to mitigate air pollution, improve public health outcomes, and promote sustainable living. As we have seen, the advantages of solar power encompass both financial benefits and environmental responsibility. By harnessing the power of the sun, individuals can transform their energy consumption habits and make a positive impact on both their wallets and the planet. Reduced Energy Costs One of the most appealing and immediate benefits of installing solar panels is the potential for significantly reduced energy costs. By harnessing the power of the sun, solar panels can generate electricity that can be used to power your home or business. This means that you can rely less on traditional energy sources supplied by utility companies, which often come with fluctuating prices and increasing rates over time. Installing solar panels allows you to generate your own clean, renewable energy, effectively reducing, or even eliminating, your dependence on the grid for electricity. With a well-designed solar system and efficient energy consumption habits, you can potentially offset a significant portion of your energy bill and save substantial amounts of money in the long run. To put it into perspective, imagine if your monthly electricity bill is $200. By installing solar panels, you could potentially reduce that bill by 50% or more, saving $100 each month. Over the course of a year, that amounts to $1,200 in savings. And considering the lifespan of solar panels, which can easily exceed 20 years with proper maintenance, you can see how these savings add up over time. So not only does going solar provide immediate financial relief by reducing your monthly bills, but it also offers long-term financial benefits by locking in lower electricity costs and protecting you from rising utility rates. Eco-Friendly Energy Production In addition to the economic advantages of solar panels, they also offer numerous environmental benefits through eco-friendly energy production. Traditional forms of electricity generation heavily rely on fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, which release harmful greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere when burned. These emissions contribute significantly to climate change and air pollution. Solar panels produce clean energy by converting sunlight into electricity without any emissions or pollutants. They are powered by the abundant and renewable energy source that is sunlight, helping to reduce our carbon footprint and combat the harmful effects of greenhouse gasses. By going solar, you can actively contribute to a more sustainable future and protect the environment for generations to come. Let's consider an example: A typical home with solar panels can offset around 3 to 4 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, which is equivalent to planting approximately 100 trees. Environmental Benefits Of Solar Panels Reduces greenhouse gas emissions Decreases reliance on fossil fuels Improves air quality Conserves natural resources Think of solar panels as the superheroes fighting against climate change and pollution. They generate electricity silently, without emitting any harmful substances or contributing to environmental degradation. By choosing solar energy, you not only reap financial benefits but also become part of the solution in creating a cleaner and greener planet. It's a win-win situation for both your wallet and the environment. Evaluating Solar Panel Cost When considering going solar, one of the most vital aspects to evaluate is the cost of solar panels. Unlike traditional energy sources, solar power relies on harnessing energy from the sun, which comes with an initial investment but offers long-term savings. By understanding the various factors that contribute to solar panel cost, you can make an informed decision about whether it's a viable option for you. Several factors influence the cost of solar panels: System Size: The size of the solar panel system directly affects its cost. Generally, larger systems generate more electricity and are therefore more expensive upfront. Panel Efficiency: Higher efficiency panels tend to be pricier, as they can generate more electricity in limited space. Installation Costs: Installation expenses encompass labor costs, equipment, permits, and overhead charges associated with installing solar panels on your property. Incentives and Tax Credits: Government incentives and tax credits can significantly offset the overall cost of installing a solar panel system. These financial benefits vary by location and change over time, so it's important to research what is currently available. Quality and Warranty: High-quality solar panels may come with an additional cost; however, their durability and longer warranty periods might yield better returns in the long run. Evaluating the cost of installing solar panels should be approached holistically. Rather than focusing solely on the initial investment, it's important to consider all potential financial benefits and long-term savings that come with going solar. Understanding these factors will help give you a comprehensive view of the true value of investing in solar energy. When considering installing solar panels, it's essential to evaluate their cost, including factors such as system size, panel efficiency, installation costs, incentives and tax credits, and quality and warranty. Evaluating the cost of solar panels should be approached holistically to assess all potential financial benefits and long-term savings. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether investing in solar energy is a viable option for you. Initial Investment Now that we've explored the different factors affecting the cost of solar panels, let's dive into understanding the initial investment required for a typical residential installation. The initial investment for a residential solar panel system depends on various factors such as the size of the system, your location, and available incentives. On average, a 4kW to 8kW solar panel system may cost between $12,000 and $30,000 before any rebates or tax credits. For instance, let's consider a hypothetical scenario where you live in an area where the total cost for a 6kW solar panel system is $18,000. However, with a federal tax credit of 30% available, the price effectively decreases by $5,400. After accounting for this incentive, the initial investment would amount to $12,600. It's important to note that tax credits and other incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of solar panels. Exploring these options can make solar energy more financially accessible. While the initial investment may appear significant at first glance, it's essential to consider the long-term savings and benefits provided by solar panels. By generating your electricity and potentially selling excess energy back to the grid through net metering programs, you can alleviate monthly utility bills and contribute to a cleaner environment. Now that we have explored the initial investment required for solar panels, it's time to delve into understanding long-term savings – a key aspect of transitioning to solar energy. Long-Term Savings Investing in solar panels provides homeowners with the opportunity to generate their own clean and renewable energy while also achieving long-term financial savings. One of the most significant benefits of going solar is the potential for substantial cost reductions on monthly utility bills. As you harness the power of the sun, your reliance on traditional electricity sources lessens, resulting in lower energy expenses over time. When considering the long-term savings, it's important to recognize that solar panels have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. This means that once you install a solar system on your property, you can enjoy decades of reduced or even eliminated electricity bills. By generating power independently, you become less susceptible to rising utility rates, which can fluctuate significantly over time. This stability adds to your financial security and allows for better planning of household expenses. Furthermore, many states offer attractive incentives and programs that can further enhance your long-term savings. For instance, net metering allows homeowners with solar panels to receive credits for any excess electricity they produce and feed back into the grid. These credits offset future electricity consumption when the sun is not shining, ensuring continuous and cost-effective energy supply throughout the day and night. Now that we've explored the potential long-term savings associated with solar panel systems, let's delve into an exciting aspect: DIY solar panel installation. DIY Solar Panel Installation: Step-by-Step Guide The prospect of installing solar panels yourself may seem intimidating at first glance; however, with careful planning and research, it can be possible. Before embarking on a DIY solar installation project, it's crucial to evaluate whether your skills and comfort level align with taking on such a task. If you have experience working with electrical systems or have successfully completed DIY projects in the past, self-installation might be feasible. If not, you would benefit greatly from hiring a professional company to avoid causing damage during installation. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the DIY solar panel installation process: Assess Your Solar Potential: Start by evaluating your property's solar potential. Consider factors such as roof orientation, shading from nearby structures or trees, and local climate conditions. This assessment will help determine the most optimal locations for installing solar panels. Design Your System: Using online resources or specialized software, design a solar system that meets your energy needs. Consider factors such as the number of panels required, inverter capacity, and battery storage options if desired. Acquire Permits and Approvals: Contact your local building department to obtain any necessary permits for solar panel installation. Ensure compliance with local regulations and electrical codes. Purchase Equipment: Research reputable suppliers and purchase high-quality solar panels, inverters, and other necessary components for your system. Consider warranties, efficiency ratings, and customer reviews when making your selections. Prepare Installation Site: Clear the installation site on your roof or ground area of any debris or obstructions. Ensure proper structural integrity to support the added weight of the solar panels. Mounting and Wiring: Follow manufacturer instructions to securely mount the solar panels on your roof or ground-mounted racks. Connect the panels using appropriate wiring techniques while ensuring safety precautions are followed. Connect to Electrical System: Consult an electrician or follow detailed instructions to connect the solar system to your home's electrical panel. This step requires careful attention to electrical safety protocols. Testing and Commissioning: Once the system is fully installed, conduct thorough testing to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Verify proper connections, metering accuracy, and overall performance. Utility Interconnection: Contact your utility company to arrange for interconnection of your solar system to the grid. They will facilitate the necessary inspections and provide guidance on net metering policies. Monitoring and Maintenance: Set up a monitoring system to track your solar system's performance. Regularly clean and maintain the panels to maximize their efficiency and lifespan. Embarking on a DIY solar panel installation project can be a long and confusing project. Remember, if at any point during the process you feel unsure or encounter challenges beyond your expertise, it's essential to consult professionals who specialize in solar installations. Ensuring the safety and effectiveness of your system is paramount. How do solar panels work? Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. When sunlight strikes the solar cells in the panels, it excites the electrons and creates an electric current. This current is then captured and converted into usable electricity for powering homes, businesses, and other appliances. On average, a residential solar panel system can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 3 to 4 tons per year, leading to significant environmental benefits. What are the disadvantages of using solar panels for energy production? While solar panels have numerous benefits, including reducing carbon emissions and saving on electricity bills, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the initial cost of installing solar panels can be high, although prices have significantly decreased over the years. Additionally, solar energy production is intermittent due to weather conditions and the need for sunlight. However, advancements in battery storage systems help mitigate this issue. Lastly, the production process of solar panels generates some waste and pollution. Nonetheless, these disadvantages are outweighed by the long-term environmental and financial advantages of solar energy. According to The Solar Foundation's National Solar Jobs Census, the U.S. solar industry employed over 250,000 people in 2022, emphasizing the positive impact of solar energy on job creation and economic growth. What are some common misconceptions about solar panels? One common misconception about solar panels is that they only work in sunny climates. While it's true that solar panels perform best under direct sunlight, they are still capable of producing electricity on cloudy or rainy days. According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, solar panels can still generate up to 25% of their optimal output even under heavy cloud cover. This means that solar panels remain a viable option for generating clean energy in regions with less sunshine. What are the benefits of using solar panels for energy production? The benefits of using solar panels for energy production are manifold. Firstly, it is a renewable source of energy that does not deplete natural resources or contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Secondly, solar panels reduce utility bills by generating free electricity from sunlight. Additionally, solar panels require minimal maintenance and have a long lifespan. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the average home with solar panels can save over $1,000 in electricity costs per year. Finally, using solar panels promotes energy independence and resilience during power outages. How much do solar panels cost and how long is the payback period? The cost of solar panels and the payback period can vary depending on several factors such as panel efficiency, size of the system, location, and available incentives. On average, the upfront cost of installing a residential solar system in 2023 ranges from $10,000 to $25,000 after tax credits and incentives. With the energy savings generated by solar panels, it typically takes homeowners about 7 to 15 years to recoup their initial investment. However, it's important to note that this payback period can be shorter or longer depending on individual circumstances and local electricity costs. According to studies, solar panels have an average return on investment (ROI) of around 10-20% per year, making them a smart long-term investment for many homeowners. Overall, solar is worth the investment. With their positive environmental impact and ability to keep your money away from the electric companies and in your wallet, the choice to go solar now is stronger than ever! Call Semper Solaris to schedule your free quote today!
Do you have questions about solar panels? You’re not alone! Even though solar has been around for a long time, many people want to know more before they choose if going solar is the right for their property. Getting to know PV panels is smart, so we have put together some of the most commonly asked questions about home solar panels and answered them in one place. From knowing how solar power works to knowing what happens to solar panels in weather, you’ll be smarter than ever about turning the sun into green energy once you’re done with these FAQs. Let’s get started. How Do Solar Panels Work? The short answer is that solar panels (comprised of photovoltaic - PV - cells) absorb and turn sunlight into electricity. The longer answer is that the silicon in PV panels, which is doped with boron to increase its conductivity, knocks electrons free from the sunlight that hits the panels. This creates an electrical current. Your panels convert the sunlight into direct current (DC) energy. How do solar panels work? Read the full article. Since most appliances in your home use alternating current (AC) power, your solar panels are connected to an inverter. The inverter changes the solar energy from DC to AC. From there, the energy is ready to be sent to your outlets and used in your home. How are Solar Panels Affected by Clouds and Rain? One of the biggest myths about solar power is that it won’t be effective when it’s cloudy. Homeowners who live in areas with a lot of sea fog, for instance, may be worried that getting solar power isn’t worth it. The reality is that solar panels can still capture sunlight even when it’s cloudy outside. In fact, panels can often produce up to 25% of their typical output even when clouds are present. When it’s raining, your solar panels may produce about 10% of their regular output. During weather events, your solar panels can draw upon their storage of saved energy so your home can stay off the grid until the sun comes out again. Read our article Does solar power work at night? Do Solar Panels Overheat? You want your solar panels in direct sunlight. But how much sun is too much sun? Some panels do operate with less efficiency in super hot temperatures. Solar panels are tested for efficiency at 77 degrees Fahrenheit, and they’re most efficient around that temperature. Panels will lose a certain amount of efficiency for every degree above 77 (this is called the temperature coefficient figure). If you’re living in the desert, you may want to select panels with a better temperature coefficient. Thin-film panels, which are started to gain steam, are also known to work quite efficiently in hot temperatures. It’s important to note that your panels will still work when they get hot, they may just take longer to generate the same amount of electricity as they do on cooler days. They will draw on stored energy to make up the difference. Learn how often you should care for your solar panels. How Many Solar Panels Does a Home Need? How many solar panels will you need to make the switch from grid power to self-sustaining solar power? There are a lot of factors that contribute to the answer, including the efficiency of the panels you choose and how much power you use every month. For a home that uses 5kW of power each month, you will require on average about 20 panels. You’ll need 300 square feet of roof space, ideally facing south. How many panels are needed to run a house? Read the full article. Can Solar Panels Be Recycled? If you’re entertaining the thought of going solar you probably care about the environment, and you’re asking yourself how you can recycle the panels when you’re done with them. The good news is that solar panels often last up to 30 years, so you won’t have to change them out often. If you inherit a home with outdated panels and want to upgrade them, however, the rules of recycling may be pertinent to you. The EU has a more organized system for recycling solar panels than the United States, but the US is started to get on board. Many of the components of solar panels, including glass and wiring, can easily be recycled. Groups like SEIA and some individual manufacturers are allowing customers to turn in old panels for repurposing or recycling. Learn how to decrease your carbon footprint. Are Solar Panels Expensive to Maintain? No, solar panels are not expensive to maintain. Regular cleanings represent the majority of your responsibility; depending on where you live and the type of panels you have, you may only need to clean the panels annually. It’s best to consult a professional when you need your panels cleaned and schedule the cleaning for a day that is partly cloudy whenever possible. Aside from cleaning, you won’t need to attend to your panels unless you notice something wrong. Many solar panels have a warranty of 25 years for parts and materials, so you can also count on free replacement components in many cases. Can Hail or Snow Damage My Solar Panels? Solar panels are specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. In fact, they are tested to make sure they can survive through one-inch hail falling at a rate of 50 miles per hour. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) was itself faced with a hail storm, and of the thousands of solar panels on the organization’s campus, only one was broken in the end. When it comes to snow, the main problem is that snow coverage impedes panel efficiency. Many homeowners can simply wait for the snow to melt because the angle at which the panels are installed encourages the melted snow to naturally run downward. You can also hire a professional to come and clear the snow. Read more about the durability of solar panels. How Much Money Will I Save with Solar? The amount of money you save with solar may vary, but if you buy efficient panels and live in Southern California you are apt to save up to $40,000 over the course of your time in your home. You can use Google’s helpful Project Sunroof to estimate how much money solar panels can save you. The tool uses your address and current electric bill to provide you with an estimate. We answer the question we know that you have: Do solar panels really save you money? Can I Take My Solar Panels When I Move? Technically your solar panels are your property and you could take them with you to a new property. But you may not want to consider it when you factor in the increase in your home’s value. In California, a solar panel system that generates about 5kW could improve the worth of a home by tens of thousands. You’re typically better off to leave your solar panels in place, sell your home, and install a different system at your new address. Read more: Does solar really increase the value of your home? What is Net Metering? Many city grids, including SDGE have a program in place to buy your excess energy. Most homes with solar will create more energy than they need, so you may as well be paid for it! Net metering is a system by which homeowners who generate solar energy and remain connected to the grid will send their extra energy to the grid. Your utility company will pay you for this electricity and use it to offset the load for your neighbors. Anything beyond your personal “net” use is used to power your community. Read our full article on net metering. Solar power has the potential to make your household energy independent, reduce your carbon footprint, and help your community. When we reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, we create new jobs and help protect the California landscape we all love so much. Solar energy is also helping local veterans get back to work after they complete their service. More of your questions are answered on our Frequently Asked Questions page.
You have done the research. California is an great place to install solar panels. Is it right for you as a homeowner? The information provided here will help you to know about the value of solar power in California. It will also help you make a well-informed decision about installing solar panels on your home. Let's review all of the reasons why you should consider going solar in the great state of California. Solar Power in California: What You Need to Know Solar energy is not a new concept in our beautiful state. In fact, California is the number one solar state, and has been for quite some time. Hundreds of thousands of people have been employed across California to install solar panels on residential and commercial buildings. The solar panel installation industry has continuously gained popularity over the past few years. Solar panels that were installed across California in that time have been able to produce over 15,000-megawatts of energy. Over 3.75 million homes use solar energy to power their homes. Usage of solar energy can be made easy with NEM The use of solar power by the owners of solar homes in California can be measured easily by using a unique billing system known as NEM or Net Energy Metering. When a home solar system produces more energy than the consumption of its owners, then NEM can help in crediting the retail value of the surplus energy supplied back to the grid. Homeowners can use these credits on the days when they are not able to produce power due to lack of daylight. However, the policy of Net Metering used in California cannot be used in all cases because some of the solar panel installation services in this state have made it easier for the homeowners to use NEM. They ensure that all clients can use the advantages of this policy by handling the documentation required for this purpose. Installation of solar panels in California So, if you have decided to install solar panels on your home in California, after going through all of your research, get in touch with Semper Solaris to get your project started. Join the California solar community today!
What Is Net Metering? Solar panel systems are designed to provide cleaner and more affordable energy to homeowners. So what are ways homeowners can save even more? Net metering is one of the most appealing aspects of going solar in California. Why? Because net metering allows homeowners to receive bill credits back on any additional electricity produced by their solar panels. Essentially, any energy their panels produce that isn’t used up by their household demands is able to be funneled back to them as a credit for low production times or surplus. There have been some slight changes to the original net metering policy for California. The original net metering allowed a bill credit for one kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity for every kWh your solar panels produced and fed to your local grid. Any excess amount would be applied to the times when you had to draw upon the grid instead of the solar power grid. With net metering 2.0, the core of the original policy remains the same – essentially credits are still equivalent. The new policy also helps prevent grid access charges, capacity fees, and other charges that don’t favor homeowners. However, the three new features – time-of-use rates, interconnection fees, and non-bypassable charges – do add some expense for homeowners. California Solar Energy Industries Association estimates expenses will increase by around $10 a month for the average homeowner. How Net Metering Can Still Save You Money Over the lifetime of a solar system, a homeowner could save thousands of dollars in electricity expenses through net metering. If your solar panels are able to produce a significant enough amount, you could end up having the majority of your bill covered, if not entirely covered. For example, say you have to draw 800 kWh of electricity from the grid throughout the month of November during the times when your solar panels aren’t producing electricity (on those cloudier days). If you are able to export 600 kWh of energy throughout the course of the same month, you could cover a majority of your bill, only being charged for the net difference of 200 kWh. Again, some months your solar panels may be able to produce an equal amount to completely cover your usage needs, especially during those sunnier months. Understanding Time-of-Use Rates So what are time-of-use rates and how will they impact you? Under net metering 2.0, time-of-use billing is used to charge customers more for peak hour usage and less for off times. Under the solar billing cycle, you could greatly benefit because your solar system will typically generate more power during peak hours (or more expensive windows) depending on your area. That means you can avoid the higher charges and have more credits stored up for when you need to use them during low production hours (ideally off-peak times so they go further). Unfortunately, this could also mean that if you use a lot of energy in the early evening and your panels don’t produce much energy during this time of day, you could be paying more than you previously did. The best bet? Review your net metering time-of-use rates and adjust to the peak and off-peak hours to ensure you maximize your savings. More questions about net metering? Let the Semper Solaris experts provide insight. Call us today to speak to a solar professional in San Diego.
