What is net metering?

When you install solar panels, your electric meter will be replaced. Your new meter will measure both the electricity you are purchasing from your utility and the electricity you are sending to the grid. The utility tracks both of these when it reads your meter, and you are charged only for your "net" energy use, the electricity you purchased minus what you sold. In the summer, you may run a credit for several months. You can draw on that credit in the rainy months. The energy credit is exchanged on a kWh basis. Storing your excess energy on the grid is better than the best batteries, because it doesn't take up space or need to be replaced. This system of "net metering" is required of utilities under Oregon law (ORS 757.300).