Net metering is the interconnection of electricity generating devices such as solar modules to the utility electricity grid. Net metering means that on a home with the standard primary utility meter, this meter records the net of the customer's use of utility electricity and their electricity generation.
How it works
For example, if a customer with a 1000 Watt photovoltaic system generates 150 kWh in July, and also uses 600 kWh in their home that month, the net that will be recorded on their utility meter will be 450 kWh. The customer will pay for 450 kWh on their utility bill. By slowing the meter down with their electricity production, the customer is receiving the retail rate for their production - about 6.7 cents per kWh.
View an example of real-time solar production at The EnviroHouse.
Fact sheet - Solar net metering and financial incentives
Follow these eight steps to connect your renewable energy system to our electricity grid.
1. Review our checklist for interconnection.
2. Review our net metering standards.
3. Finalize the design and plans for your renewable energy system.
View our solar installation drawing template. For more information call (253) 502-8619.
4. Submit your net metering application.
5. Submit your signed net metering interconnection agreement.
6. If you want to apply for financial incentives, submit a signed production metering agreement. Your installation must include a meter to measure your renewable energy production.
7. Have your renewable energy system installed.
8. Schedule a final inspection of your installation by calling (253) 502-8541.
We participate in Washington state's Renewable Energy Annual Incentive Payment Program. If you become a net metering customer and track your energy production with a second meter, you can apply for an annual payment based on your electricity production.
As of early 2011, we are interconnected with 50 residential customers and two community colleges - Tacoma Community College and Pierce College - who contribute renewable energy to the utility grid. These customers generate power with solar electricity - photovoltaics - and one also contributes with a small wind generator. In our area, the weak wind resource is not sufficient for meaningful electricity production.
