How Net Metering Works in Washington, D.C.
Make the most of your solar investment with simple, transparent crediting.
Switching to solar in Washington, D.C. doesn’t just lower your electric bill—it also allows you to earn credits for the clean energy you produce. This process is called net metering, and it’s one of the most valuable benefits available to D.C. homeowners.
At City Renewables, we help guide homeowners and businesses through every step of going solar. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Net Metering in D.C.?
Net metering allows solar homeowners to send extra electricity back to the grid and receive credits on their Pepco bill. When your solar panels produce more energy than your home is using, the surplus is exported and converted into bill credits that offset future usage.
The specifics of net metering—such as credit rates and annual true-up rules—are governed by D.C. regulations and Pepco tariffs. Understanding these details helps you maximize long-term savings.
Is Your Home Eligible?
Most D.C. homes qualify for net metering as long as:
- You own the home or have written approval from the property owner.
- Your solar system fits within D.C.’s residential capacity limits.
- Your equipment meets interconnection and safety requirements.
- You complete all required permits and inspections before connecting to the grid.
Need help confirming eligibility?
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How Net Metering Works (Step by Step)
- Install a grid-tied solar PV system designed for your home.
- Your home consumes the energy your panels produce first.
- Any excess energy flows back to the grid and is recorded by a bi-directional (smart) meter.
- Pepco converts exported kilowatt-hours into energy credits.
- Credits roll over to offset future electricity usage.
- Pepco performs an annual true-up at the end of each year.
Understanding Energy Credits
D.C. offers strong net metering policies. Key details include:
- Credit rate: Most exported energy is credited at or near the full retail rate.
- Monthly netting: Pepco nets your imports and exports each month.
- Carryover: Unused credits roll forward month to month.
- True-up: Final credit adjustments occur annually.
- Non-bypassable charges: Some fixed fees remain on your bill.
City Renewables sizes and designs systems to help you get the most value from these rules.
How Interconnection Works
Before your solar system can begin exporting energy, Pepco must approve its interconnection. This process typically includes:
- Submitting applications and equipment documentation
- Providing permits, insurance, and inverter certifications
- Passing utility technical review and (sometimes) a site inspection
- Signing the interconnection agreement
We manage the entire interconnection process for our customers.
Community Solar: An Option If You Can’t Install on Your Roof
If rooftop solar isn’t an option, D.C. offers community solar programs. You can subscribe to a shared solar project and still receive monthly bill credits. Terms vary by subscription, but credits generally function similarly to traditional net metering.
Financial Benefits: Why Net Metering Matters
Net metering plays a major role in the financial return of going solar in D.C.
Important factors include:
- Upfront system cost
- Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
- Local incentives and rebates
- Net meter crediting structure
- Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)
- Your home’s energy consumption
- System size and design
When optimized correctly, D.C. solar systems commonly achieve strong payback periods and significant long-term savings.
Common Questions About Net Metering in D.C.
Will I lose money if I export a lot of power?
No. Exported energy still earns credits, but the exact value depends on Pepco’s credit rate. A properly sized system maximizes both self-consumption and credit value.
How long does interconnection take?
It typically takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on review times and inspection schedules.
What happens if I move?
Most buyers see solar as a home value booster. Credits and incentives usually transfer with the home, and community solar subscriptions may be transferable depending on the contract.
Your Solar + Net Metering Roadmap
- Request a quote or compare multiple installers.
- Confirm incentive eligibility and financing options.
- Choose a system size that aligns with your energy usage and Pepco’s credit structure.
- Let your installer manage interconnection and permitting.
- Install your system and complete inspections.
- Begin generating clean energy and accumulating credits.
Where to Turn for Help
- City Renewables — solar design, installation, financing, and full interconnection support
- Pepco — utility tariff and billing questions
- District government — local renewable energy programs
- DSIRE — policy and incentive database
Final Tips
- Know your credit rate before finalizing your system size.
- Keep your permits, agreements, and inspection documents organized.
- Confirm who owns your SRECs—they provide significant financial value in D.C.
- Consider pairing solar with battery storage to increase self-consumption and resilience.
Ready to Go Solar in D.C.?
City Renewables was founded to make the switch to solar simple and stress-free. If you’re ready to explore your options or want clear guidance through net metering and incentives: