Net Billing
Net billing credits exported solar at a separate export rate instead of a simple one-for-one bill offset.
What net billing means
Net billing is a solar compensation structure where exported solar is usually credited at a separate export rate instead of directly offsetting imported electricity one-for-one.
The difference matters because a lower export rate can make self-consumption and battery timing more valuable. See the Net Metering vs Net Billing comparison before estimating payback in the Solar ROI Calculator.
Why it changes solar planning
- Exported daytime solar may be worth less than electricity bought later.
- Battery storage may become more useful if it shifts solar use into evening hours.
- Oversizing a system can be less attractive when surplus credits are reduced.
Why it matters
Net billing can reduce the value of exported solar and change the best system size, battery decision, and payback estimate.
Example
If imported electricity costs 28 cents per kWh but exported solar is credited at 8 cents per kWh, using solar directly at home is usually more valuable than sending it to the grid.