Net metering credits you at the full retail rate for excess solar production. But many states are shifting to net billing at lower avoided-cost rates. Here is what your utility actually pays you.
Maine Net Metering Policy
Net energy billing at retail rate for residential solar
| Credit Type | 1:1 retail rate |
| System Cap | No aggregate cap |
| Policy Trend | Evolving. Maine is expanding community solar options and may adjust net metering for new installations. |
Utility-by-Utility Breakdown
| Utility | Credit Type | Excess Handling | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Maine Power (CMP) | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover, annual cash-out at avoided cost | Southern and central Maine |
| Versant Power | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover | Northern Maine (formerly Emera) |
Impact on Your Solar Savings
In Maine, your net metering policy directly affects how much your solar system is worth. With 1:1 retail rate credits, excess solar production is valued at the full retail rate. This affects your payback period and 25-year savings.
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Maximizing Value in Maine
- Size your system to match annual consumption (avoid large excess at year-end)
- Shift high-usage appliances (laundry, dishwasher) to solar production hours
- Monitor production monthly to ensure your system is performing as expected
Net Metering in Other States
Massachusetts →Connecticut →Rhode Island →New Hampshire →Vermont →New Jersey →Pennsylvania →New York →Texas →
See Net Metering Applied to Your ME Quote
Our calculator factors in your specific utility's net metering policy for accurate savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is net metering?▼
Net metering is a billing arrangement where your utility credits you at the full retail rate for excess solar electricity you send to the grid. Your meter effectively "runs backward" when you produce more than you use.
What is the difference between net metering and net billing?▼
Net metering credits at the full retail rate (e.g., $0.27/kWh in CT). Net billing credits at a lower "avoided cost" rate (e.g., $0.08–$0.12/kWh). Net billing reduces the value of excess solar production.
Is net metering going away?▼
Several states are transitioning from net metering to net billing or successor tariffs. California already moved to NEM 3.0. Most NuWatt service states still have favorable net metering but policy trends favor lower credit rates.