You might have wondered, what happens with my utility company? What happens when I start making my own power?
Most of you probably know or have heard that your meter starts running backward, but what does that mean as far as your new relationship with the electrical grid as an energy provider and not just a consumer?
This is no small question, and subject to changes in the law, whims of elections, and pressures from lobbyists, but the trend in many states is toward requiring utilities to credit energy produced by solar and other clean, small-scale technology. It is the future of our energy systems, and all waves begin as swells. I think we can expect more to come.
So here's how it happens:
Your photovoltiac (PV) system will produce a varying number of kilowatt-hours throughout the year - less in the winter, more in the summer. So PG&E (as a typical example) designates you as a net energy metering (NEM) customer, and bills you the "amount due for the monthly minimum electric charges and a snapshot of your current and year-to-date charges and credits."
At the end of the year, you'll get an "NEM true-up" statement, where you will either be ahead or behind. If your system is sized to take care of your entire load, what you get or give will be minimal. If you produced a surplus, they'll pay you wholesale prices for the difference.
It's important to pay attention to your bill, and call PG&E with any concerns. It's especially important if you make any big changes in your load, like adding an air conditioner, high-energy lighting, or putting in a pool, like this guy.
It's usually better to cover your load or less. For a lot of people, putting in a smaller system that takes their net usage out of the higher cost "teirs", keeping them in the lowest $ per kWh level, makes the most sense. Sometimes, due to limited roof space, obstructions, shading, or other factors, there's just not enough space on a roof for PV to payoff.
West Delta can help you find out with a free assessment of your home or building's potential. We can do residential or commercial analysis, and get it installed for a great price per watt.
No comments:
Post a Comment