Solar Net Metering Savings Calculator
Calculate your savings from net metering and selling excess solar power back to the grid
About this calculator
The Solar Net Metering Savings Calculator helps homeowners estimate their potential savings from installing solar panels and participating in net metering programs. Net metering allows you to sell excess electricity your solar system produces back to the utility grid, earning credits that offset your energy bills. This calculator analyzes your energy usage, local utility rates, and solar production potential to provide accurate projections of monthly and annual savings, helping you make informed decisions about solar investments and understand your return on investment timeline.
How to use
Enter your average monthly electricity bill, local electricity rate per kWh, and your solar system's estimated monthly production in kWh. Input your utility's net metering rate (usually the retail electricity rate). The calculator will show your projected monthly savings, annual savings, and payback period based on selling excess solar power back to the grid.
Frequently asked questions
What is net metering and how does it work?
Net metering allows solar panel owners to sell excess electricity back to the utility grid, earning credits that offset future energy bills when solar production is low.
Do all utilities offer the same net metering rates?
No, net metering policies and rates vary by utility company and state. Some offer full retail rates while others provide reduced compensation for excess energy.
How accurate are the savings projections?
Projections are estimates based on your inputs. Actual savings depend on weather, energy usage patterns, utility rate changes, and system performance over time.