Net Metering Credits and Power Outages
Net metering credits cannot directly provide electricity during power outages. Here’s why:
- Grid-Tied Systems: Most solar systems are grid-tied, meaning they are connected to the utility grid. When you generate excess energy, it is sent back to the grid, and you receive credits on your utility bill for this excess energy. However, during a power outage, these systems automatically shut off to prevent sending electricity into potentially damaged lines, which could endanger utility workers.
- No Direct Power: Even though you have accumulated credits, you cannot use these credits to power your home during an outage. Credits are typically applied to future energy bills to offset the cost of electricity consumed from the grid, not to provide electricity during outages.
- Alternative Solutions: To maintain power during outages, homeowners often use battery storage systems. These systems can be charged by solar panels during the day and used at night or during outages, allowing homeowners to use their stored energy when the grid is down.
In summary, while net metering credits help reduce your energy bills over time, they cannot be used directly during power outages unless combined with a battery storage system.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/can-net-metering-credits-be-used-during-power-outages/
