Net Metering in Wisconsin: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever wondered what happens to the extra energy your solar panels generate, the answer lies in net metering. This essential policy is one of the biggest financial benefits of going solar in Wisconsin. Let’s break down how net metering works, why it matters, and how it can save you money.

What Is Net Metering?

Net metering is a system that allows you to send excess electricity produced by your solar panels back to the grid. In return, your utility company credits your account, effectively reducing your electricity bill. It’s like “storing” your extra energy for future use.

For example, during sunny summer months, your solar panels may generate more electricity than you use. Those credits can be applied when your panels produce less energy, such as on cloudy days or during Wisconsin’s snowy winters.

How Does Net Metering Work in Wisconsin?

Each utility in Wisconsin has its own net metering policy, but the general process is the same:

1. Energy Production: Your solar panels generate electricity during the day.
2. Excess Energy: If your panels produce more than you need, the extra power flows back into the grid.
3. Energy Credits: Your utility company credits you for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of excess electricity sent to the grid.
4. Usage Offset: When your system produces less energy (like at night), you can use those credits to offset your energy use.

Why Is Net Metering So Important?

Net metering plays a key role in making solar energy financially viable. Here’s how it benefits Wisconsin homeowners and businesses:

• Lower Energy Bills: Credits from net metering can significantly reduce your utility costs, especially during high-production months.
• Better ROI: By maximizing the value of every kWh your system produces, net metering shortens the payback period for your solar investment.
• No Need for Oversized Systems: With net metering, you don’t need to install a massive solar system to meet all your energy needs year-round. Your credits will balance out seasonal fluctuations.

What to Look for in a Net Metering Policy

When considering solar, it’s essential to understand your utility company’s specific net metering terms. Here are a few key factors:

• Credit Rates: Most utilities in Wisconsin offer credits of around $0.03 to $0.07 per kWh for the energy you send to the grid. While this rate may vary, we’re here to help you understand exactly what your utility offers.
• Annual True-Up: Some utilities “settle” your account annually, while others may reset credits monthly.
• Size Limits: Check if there’s a cap on the size of the solar system eligible for net metering.
• Buyback Options: If your system consistently generates more energy than you use, can you sell it back to the utility?

At Lydon Solar, we know these details can be tricky to navigate. That’s why we’re happy to help you find the specifics of your utility’s net metering policy, ensuring you get the most out of your solar system.

Net Metering and Lydon Solar

At Lydon Solar, we work with you to design a solar system that maximizes your net metering benefits. As local experts in Wisconsin, we’ll help you navigate your utility company’s policies, ensuring you get the most value out of your solar energy.

We’re committed to transparency and education, so you’ll fully understand how net metering works and how it impacts your savings. Plus, we handle all the paperwork and interconnection processes, so you can focus on enjoying your solar-powered home or business.

Ready to Start Saving?

Net metering is just one of the many reasons going solar in Wisconsin is a smart financial move. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Lydon Solar for a free consultation. We’ll design a system tailored to your energy needs and help you unlock all the benefits of solar – including net metering.