Is it true that solar energy allows you to sell the power back to the utility companies?

Question

I saw on tv that a guy did this. His meter went backwards.

Answer 1

It is true and in most states the power companies pay a fair price for the electricity you generate for them.  There are problems with it though.

The start up costs involved are significant.  You will have to expect about $15-20k on a setup that will produce enough energy to make net metering a viable option.  Some states will give you tax credits or rebates for the cost of the panels, others won't or only give a tiny fraction of the costs.  You also need to check with your local utility company to see if they are even set up to accept net metering.  Some power companies have backflow regulators that prevent net metering.

Do your research for your specific area before investing a lot of money in it.

Answer 2

Yes you can, isn't that cool!? It is called net metering, many states now-a-days let a person with solar panels put the energy back into the energy company (the grid)  This is when your meter goes backwards and the energy company will pay you for this electricity you are making for them.  So, even though solar panels cost a lot to buy, you will over time get that money back not only by using solar power but by net metering too.

Answer 3

Anyone who produces energy can sell it to the power companies. It is the law in some states, and you'll be ignored in others.

Be aware the power companies only buy it at a small fraction of the price they sell it for. And everyone who does it is bombarded with lawsuits from the power companies. They don't want anyone else producing electricity. They don't want anyone to realize that everyone can now make their own electricity cheaper than they can buy it.

Answer 4

i don't know about a meter going backwards but if you have it set up profesionally and have it documented then yes you can sell power back to the elect. comp.

Answer 5

Yes they do buy it back (give you credit it on it). We know 2 people who are currently doing this and it has worked very well  for them. I can't wait until we are able to purchase the solar panels. I have not heard of any problems, only great advantages along with unbelievable low bills  68 cents on one person's and a credit balance for the other. It's the only way to go!!!

Answer 6

It is absolutely true. Most of the utilities will buy back at the rate they are charging (the net metering mentioned by sara)and a few will even pay more for solar because it is producing the most power when the demand is the highest; during daylight hours when most businesses are running.  WE energies in Wisconsin pays 22.5 cents per kw hour for solar and only charges 12 cents per kw hour as their normal rate.