Net Metering

In brief, a net metering system is one that

  • Uses as its fuel renewable resources; defined to be solar, wind, hydropower, biomass, or other alternative generation system pre-approved by the utility.
  • Is located on the member-generator’s premises.
  • Operates in parallel with the REC distribution system.
  • Is intended primarily to offset part of the member’s/generator’s requirements for electricity at the specific site where the generation is installed.

Net metering allows homeowners to receive the full value for the electricity that their alternative renewable energy system produces. The term, net metering, refers to the method of accounting for the electricity production of an alternative renewable energy system.

How Net Metering Works

Net-metering is a special installation that allows the homeowner to generate electricity, which is used to offset their own usage at that specific residence. As the homeowner’s system produces electricity, the kilowatt hours are used against the consumption of the home.  If more electricity is produced from the system than is needed by the homeowner, the extra kilowatts hours are banked but must be used in a 12 month period.   However, if the member uses more electricity than they generate, they pay the difference.

Billing Period

The annual billing period for net metering begins and ends with the Cooperative’s dedicated billing cycle. Any remaining unused kilowatt-hour credits accumulated during the previous 12 months will be granted to YVEC, without any compensation to the member-generator.

Net metering allows homeowners who are not home when their systems are producing electricity to still receive the full value of that electricity without having to install a battery storage system. The power grid acts as the member’s battery backup, which saves the member the added expense of purchasing and maintaining a battery system.

Will I Be Net Zero With a Zero Power Bill?

Members that generate more electricity than they consume at the home will result in net zero on their usage on the specific meter that the solar system is offsetting. However, members with net metering will still have a base fee and KW demand charge each month.

Net Metering Interconnection Application

View our Net Metering Form (Microsoft Word Document)

Note: A processing fee is due with the completed application. Please see Member Services for details. 

*Any repurposing or use of YVEC materials is unauthorized without prior approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ROI on solar?

For every kilowatt-hour you generate, a kilowatt-hour will be deducted from the usage on that meter. (retail rate exchange)