5 min read
Solar Net Metering: Are You Exporting for Pennies?
Learn when solar self-consumption beats exporting to the grid — and how time-of-use rates change the math.
How net metering works
Net metering lets you send excess solar production back to the grid and receive a credit on your bill. But the credit value varies — some utilities pay near-retail rates, others pay much less, and many time-of-use plans credit exports at off-peak rates even if you generated during peak sunshine.
When export isn't worth it
If your utility credits exports at $0.03–$0.05/kWh but charges $0.25+/kWh during peak, you're better off using solar power directly or storing it in a battery for evening use.
The best strategy depends on your rate plan, system size, and consumption patterns — not a one-size-fits-all rule.
Optimizing solar value with Gleam
Gleam tracks your solar production forecasts, rate plan, and usage to recommend when to self-consume, store, export, or even charge a battery from the grid during cheap off-peak hours.
Put this into practice
Gleam connects your utility, EV, and solar data to find personalized savings — off-peak charging windows, rate plan comparisons, and bill analysis. Free to start.
Or estimate first: Electricity usage · EV charging · Solar savings
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