Have you invested in solar, but your energy bill is still high? Understanding net metering (NEM) charges is crucial for solar consumers to optimize their savings and make informed decisions about their energy usage. We’re here to help you understand NEM charges, why they matter, and how they can impact your solar investment.
What is NEM?
NEM provides credits for the extra energy your solar panels generate. When your system produces more power than you use, the surplus goes back to the grid, earning you credits. These credits help offset the electricity you use from the grid when your solar production is low. However, if you use more electricity from the grid than your solar panels produce during the billing period, you can incur NEM charges. These charges cover the difference between your consumption and production, along with any fixed fees or time-of-use rate differences set by the utility company.
There is no need to worry if were unable to join during the NEM 2.0 policy while it was out. Despite NEM 3.0’s regulations, you can still gain significant savings. Use Google Project Sunroof’s solar calculator to determine how much money you could save when installing solar!
Factors Influencing NEM Charges
Several factors come into play with the charges regarding NEM, and they can critically impact your energy bill. These factors include:
Electricity Usage Patterns: If you use more energy during peak times, like hot summer afternoons with high air conditioning, you face higher charges due to increased grid reliance. Shifting energy use to off-peak hours can lower rates and reduce your charges.
Utility Policies and Regulations: Adjustments to net metering policies or fee structures can alter how charges are calculated and applied. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for solar energy consumers to anticipate and adapt to potential shifts in energy costs.
How to Decrease Your NEM Charges
We get it. An expensive bill is frustrating, and we want to help. Here are a few possible solutions to lower your NEM charges:
Shift Energy Use to Off-Peak Hours: Use high-energy appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during off-peak times when electricity rates are lower.
Invest in More Solar Panels: Increase energy generation to offset more of your grid consumption.
Install An Energy Storage System: Invest in a solar energy storage system to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use during peak hours or at night, reducing reliance on the grid.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models to reduce energy consumption.
Implement Smart Home Technology: Use smart thermostats, plugs, and other devices to optimize energy usage based on real-time data and solar production.
By implementing these strategies, you can better align your energy usage with solar energy production.
Still Have Questions? Call Us.
By understanding the components of NEM and implementing effective strategies to manage your energy usage, you can take control of your energy expenses and maximize the value of your solar investment.
Take charge of your energy usage and explore the solutions we have to offer! With our expertise, you can navigate NEM charges and maximize your solar energy system’s return on investment. Contact us today to learn more and start saving with solar!