A net meter keeps track of excess solar electricity generated
If you are considering solar photovoltaic panels for your home or business, did you know that you can sell back solar power to your utility?
In other words, if you generate more solar electricity than you use on a given day, the excess is fed back into the grid and is tracked by met meters.
In general, here’s how net metering works:
1. Solar panels installed on your roof absorb sunlight in the form of direct current (DC). Approximately 10-15% of the solar energy that hits the panels is converted into usable electricity.
2. A line runs from the panels to a solar inverter, which is often required to change DC into alternating current (AC) – what you get when you plug in appliances and devices.
3. The solar inverter is connected to an electrical service panel and a disconnection switch (if required).
4. A net meter is also part of the system, out of which a line is connected to the grid.
Go solar and start saving today!
Net metering is only available when you have a solar panel system that is grid-connected. In these instances, you may be buying power during hours the solar panels are not generating electricity. However, you can also sell back solar power into the grid when you generate excess energy. That can allow you to turn your meter backwards and receive a tiny utility bill – perhaps even a credit that you can draw on in the future.
People that have installed solar panels are so thrilled by the immediate effect on their bills as a result of net metering!
Want to try it out for yourself? Take advantage of today’s low prices on solar panels and generous tax incentives. Don’t wait until the hot summer months and high A/C expenses start piling up.
Tags: feed power back into grid, net metering, net metering system, net meters, sell back solar power, solar electricity, solar photovoltaic panels
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