Switching to solar power is an exciting step toward energy independence and savings. But once your solar system is up and running, your electric bill might look a little different—and sometimes confusing. Understanding how to read your electric bill after installing solar panels helps you track your savings and spot any issues early.
Here’s what you need to know to decode your post-solar electric bill.
1. Metering: Net Metering vs. Time-of-Use Rates
Most solar homes participate in net metering, which means your electric meter runs forwards when you use power from the grid and backwards when you send excess solar energy back.
Some utilities also use time-of-use (TOU) rates, charging different prices depending on the time of day. This means your bill varies more depending on when you use or export electricity.
2. Key Sections to Look For
a) Energy Usage and Generation
- Energy Consumed from the Grid: This is the electricity you pulled from your utility when your solar wasn’t producing enough.
- Energy Sent to the Grid: This is your solar system’s excess energy sent back to the utility, credited to your account.
b) Net Usage or Net Consumption
This number reflects your total electricity use minus what your solar system produced. If it’s negative, you generated more power than you used.
c) Charges and Credits
- Energy Charges: The cost for the net electricity you used.
- Credits: Payments or credits for the excess solar power you supplied.
3. What to Expect in Your First Year
Your electric bills will fluctuate seasonally—more solar energy is produced in sunnier months, potentially lowering your net usage and bill. During winter or cloudy months, you may draw more from the grid, increasing your bill.
4. Tips for Maximizing Your Solar Savings
- Monitor your usage during peak rate hours if you’re on TOU rates.
- Shift high-energy tasks (laundry, dishwashing) to daylight hours to use your solar power directly.
- Keep an eye on your bill for unexpected charges or drops in solar production.
Need Help Understanding Your Bill?
At Aicon Solar, we want you to feel confident in your solar investment. If your electric bill has you scratching your head, reach out! We’re happy to review it with you and answer your questions.