Net metering has been a cornerstone of solar energy adoption in West Virginia, allowing homeowners and businesses to generate their own electricity and receive fair compensation for excess power fed back into the grid.
However, West Virginia’s net metering policy has recently undergone changes that impact the compensation you receive for the energy your property produces. Immediate action is needed to protect your rights as a solar energy producer.
What Is Net Metering?
Net metering is a billing mechanism that credits solar panel owners for the electricity they add to the grid. In West Virginia, this means receiving a credit equal in value to the electricity you produce but don’t use. It’s a win-win situation: consumers save money, and the electric service becomes more reliable for everyone.
How West Virginia’s Net Metering Policy Has Changed
Monopoly utility companies have pushed to change net metering rules in their favor. They’ve petitioned the Public Service Commission to end net metering as we know it. Now, new customers are only able to net meter at a fraction of the current retail rate, significantly reducing the financial benefits of going solar for homeowners and business owners.
As of March 27, 2024, new net-metering customers in West Virginia will receive credits based on the wholesale rate for electricity (approximately 6.6 cents per kilowatt-hour) instead of the previous 1-to-1 credit system. This change already represents a substantial reduction in the value of excess energy produced by solar systems.
Grandfathering Provision: A Limited Window of Opportunity
Monongahela Power Company has introduced a grandfathering policy that provides some protection for those who act quickly so they can receive more fair compensation for excess energy in spite of these changes.
Residential customers must submit a materially complete application by December 31, 2024, and receive a Certificate of Completion by December 31, 2025.
Commercial customers have the same application deadline but get an additional six months for completion (June 30, 2026).
This provision applies to both existing solar panel owners as of December 31, 2024, and new applicants who meet the deadlines.
Take Action Now
These changes have the potential to significantly impact the financial viability of solar installations for many West Virginians. The new policy limits energy freedom and may even slow the state’s adoption of clean, renewable energy.
If you’re considering going solar in West Virginia, now is the time to act. The grandfathering provision offers a limited window to secure more favorable net metering terms. Here’s what you can do:
- Contact your local representatives and the Public Service Commission to voice your support for fair net metering policies.
- If you’re planning to install solar, start the process immediately to meet the grandfathering deadlines.
- Spread awareness about this issue to your friends, family, and community.
Remember, the energy choices we make today will shape West Virginia’s future. Let’s work together to preserve our energy freedom and continue the transition to cleaner, more sustainable power sources.
Contact Milestone Solar Today
Are you considering installing solar for your home or business in West Virginia? Now is the time to take advantage of clean energy production so you can meet the proposed deadlines and get fair compensation for the energy you produce that goes back into the grid. Don’t wait—contact Milestone Solar today to get a free consultation!