How to Compare Net Metering vs. Net Billing
A Simple Guide for BC Hydro Solar Customers
Before You Begin
There isn’t a single answer that applies to everyone. The financial impact of moving to Net Billing depends on how much electricity you use, how much your solar system produces, and how much energy you export to the grid.
You’ll need:
- Your last 12–24 months of BC Hydro bills
- Your solar monitoring app (or annual production report)
- A calculator (or spreadsheet)
Step 1 – Determine How Much Electricity You Use
From your BC Hydro bills, find your annual electricity consumption (kWh).
Example: Annual consumption: 12,000 kWh
Step 2 – Determine How Much Solar You Produce
From your monitoring system, find your annual solar production.
Example: Annual solar production: 10,500 kWh
Step 3 – Estimate How Much You Export
This is the most important number.
How much of your solar energy is sent back to the grid instead of being used in your home?
Example: Annual exports: 3,000 kWh
Step 4 – Compare Export Values
Using the example above:
Net Metering Settlement – 3,000 kWh × $0.059 = $177
Net Billing – 3,000 kWh × $0.10 = $300
Difference: +$123
Step 5 – Remember the Biggest Benefit of Solar
Many people focus only on exported electricity. In reality, the greatest financial benefit comes from the solar energy you use directly in your home. Every kilowatt-hour you use immediately is one you don’t have to purchase from BC Hydro at the retail electricity rate.
Generally speaking:
- Running appliances during the day
- Charging an EV while the sun is shining
- Using a heat pump during daylight hours
can all increase the value of your solar system.
Step 6 – Don’t Forget the Rebate
If you’re deciding whether to keep BC Hydro’s $5,000 rebate or repay it to remain on Net Metering, include that in your comparison.
Ask yourself:
- How many years would it take for any difference in annual savings to equal $5,000?
- Will my electricity usage change over time?
- Am I planning to add an EV, battery, or heat pump?
Questions to Ask Yourself
✅ How much electricity do I export each year?
✅ How much solar do I use directly in my home?
✅ Do I expect my energy usage to increase?
✅ How long do I plan to stay in my home?
Need More Information?
For questions about your BC Hydro account, billing history, or program eligibility, please contact BC Hydro directly, as they have access to your account information.
Important Disclaimer
This guide is intended for educational purposes only. Every home’s energy usage is different, and actual financial outcomes will vary. BC Hydro is the best source for questions related to your individual account and billing history.