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.
Pennsylvania Net Metering Policy
Net metering at retail rate for systems up to 50 kW
| Credit Type | 1:1 retail rate |
| System Cap | 50 kW per residential system |
| Policy Trend | Stable. Pennsylvania net metering rules are well-established under the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard. |
Utility-by-Utility Breakdown
| Utility | Credit Type | Excess Handling | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PECO | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover, annual cash-out at price-to-compare | Philadelphia region |
| PPL Electric | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover | Eastern and central PA |
| Duquesne Light | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover | Pittsburgh region |
Impact on Your Solar Savings
In Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
- 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 →Maine →New Jersey →New York →Texas →
See Net Metering Applied to Your PA 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.