How to Read and Understand Your Solar Bill after Net Metering

Solar energy billing can sometimes be challenging to understand, especially when integrating generation, consumption, and net metering. This guide uses the attached example bill to explain the key components of solar billing and calculations.

Solar Bill

Explaining the Bill Breakdown:

1. Solar Generation (610 kWh): This is the total energy generated by the solar panel system.

2. Grid Import (616 kWh): Energy consumed from the grid when solar production was insufficient.

3. Grid Export (489 kWh): Excess energy sent to the grid when solar production exceeded immediate consumption.

4. Net Reading (127 kWh): This is the energy billed, representing the deficit between consumed and generated energy.

   
   

Example Scenario

If your household consumed 737 kWh of electricity in total for the month:

• Solar provided 610 kWh, with 121 kWh directly consumed as Self-Use.

• You drew 616 kWh from the grid, but also exported 489 kWh, leaving a net usage of 127 kWh from the grid.

• The calculation can be understood as below:-

  

  
  

Simplified Monthly Payment

You only pay for the Net Meter Reading of 127 kWh. This reduces your electricity cost significantly compared to consuming the total 737 kWh from the grid.

Benefits of Solar Billing

• Cost Savings: By generating solar energy and offsetting grid consumption, the billable units are minimized.

• Environmental Impact: Reduced dependency on grid energy lowers your carbon footprint.

• Net Metering Advantages: Exported energy is credited against your imported energy, further reducing costs.