Net Metering

How does the Net Energy Metering program work?

Answer: Net Energy Metering (NEM) is a program designed to benefit Southern California Edison (SCE) customers who generate their own electricity using solar, wind, biogas, or fuel cell technology, or a hybrid of these technologies.

The NEM program uses a bi-directional meter to track the "net" difference between the amount of electricity you produce and the amount of electricity you consume during each billing period. This can be accomplished on a cumulative basis or on a time-of-use basis, depending upon your rate schedule.

As a Residential/Small Commercial NEM customer, you will continue to receive monthly bills, but only for non-energy related charges such as taxes and fees. On an annual basis, you will be billed for electricity based on your net use for the previous year - ie. the amount of electricity you used minus the amount you generated. Large Commercial/Industrial NEM Customers will continue to receive monthly bills which will require payment of the monthly non-energy related charges (taxes and standard billing fees) and "Net" energy charges.

Does SCE pay me money for excess energy I produce?

Answer: In accordance with Assembly Bill 920, signed into law on October 11, 2009, NEM customers are eligible to receive compensation for net surplus electricity in 2011.

What happens once I'm enrolled in the NEM program?

Answer: Once you are enrolled in the NEM program, you'll continue to receive monthly bills listing non-energy related charges, such as taxes and fees. On an annual basis, your bill will also include 'net' electricity charges – ie. charges for the amount of energy you used minus the energy you produced.

I received my Permission to Operate (PTO) letter, but it took a while before I started receiving kWh credits. Why?

Answer: Within 30 days of the date of your PTO letter, you will be enrolled in the NEM program, which will include a meter change if one is required and you’ll begin to the billed on the NEM Rate Tariff.