Net Metering Illinois

Learn about net metering and how it can benefit your energy consumption.

Eligibility:
- Applies to renewable energy systems like solar, wind, biomass, and hydroelectric.
- Systems must generally be sized to meet the customer's own energy needs.
- Residential systems up to 40 kW and non-residential systems up to 2 MW are typically eligible.
Credits:
- Customers receive a credit for the excess electricity they produce at the full retail rate.
- These credits can offset future energy consumption from the grid.
- Credits are usually carried forward to future billing periods.
Annual Reconciliation:
- At the end of the annual period (often set by the utility), any remaining credits might be forfeited or compensated at a lower rate, depending on the utility's specific policy.
Metering Requirements:
- Customers must have a bidirectional meter that can measure both the electricity consumed from the grid and the electricity sent back to the grid.
- In some cases, utilities may install these meters at no cost to the customer.
Interconnection Standards:
- Customers must follow specific interconnection standards to ensure their systems can be safely connected to the grid.
- Utilities typically require an application and inspection process

Cost Savings: Reduces electricity bills by allowing customers to use their own generated power and receive credits for excess production.
Environmental Impact: Encourages the use of renewable energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy Independence: Provides greater energy security and independence from utility providers.