What is net metering and are all buildings eligible for the CSI Program?

Net metering is the term given which allows your utility meter to literally “spin backwards” when you are producing more electricity than you are using. During the day, especially for homeowners, the occupants of the home might be in school or at work while the photovoltaic system is making more than what the house is presently using. The excess electricity then spins the meter backward and the utility gives you credit AT THE RETAIL RATE for the power they buy back from you. This credit shows up on your monthly electric bill as your meter actually registers the backfeed amount. The meter spins forward (you purchase) at night, during rainy weather, or when your electric demand exceeds the amount of power you are generating on the roof at that given moment. For instance, if you are generating 2000 watts of power but only using 1000 watts, you use your own 1000 watts first and sell the excess 1000 watts back to the utility at retail rate. If you are using 2000 watts and only generating 1000 watts at the moment, you use your 1000 watts you generated and only have to purchase the additional 1000 watts from the utility. This amount is annualized at the end of the year, especially during some months when it is possible to have a negative electric bill. It is state law that the utility must interconnect and net meter your system provided your system passes the local electrical inspection (National Electric Code)and meets the utility safety requirments as outlined in the law. A signed copy of the interconnection and net metering agreement is entered into by the Owner and the utility and is binding and transferable, provided the safety requirements are maintained.