Net Metering 3.0: A Game-Changer for Solar Energy in California
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Net Metering 3.0: A Game-Changer for Solar Energy in California

Updated: Jul 28, 2023


Are you fed up with California's pricey and unreliable electric providers? We hear you, homeowners drowning in $300+ monthly energy expenses. Your home or commercial property deserves better, more environmentally friendly energy. Thanks to Planet Solar, a solar-powered future with the finest returns is within reach!

The solar energy industry has recently achieved considerable advancements in solar panel efficiency and cost-effectiveness, making it a desirable alternative for individuals and businesses. But for some people, the cost of installing solar panels may still be a deterrent. Fortunately, adopting solar is now more accessible and affordable than ever, thanks to California's recent introduction of Net Metering 3.0.

This blog post will examine the revolutionary effects of Net Metering 3.0 on the solar energy landscape in California.

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Planet Solar is at the forefront of the Golden State's renewable energy sector with a decades-long journey of selling, designing and installing customized solar solutions that are distinctly suited to the homeowner’s needs. Our company has a track record of steady growth and has made a name for itself as a trustworthy solar contractor for residential and small commercial clients.

What is Net Metering?

The utility company and solar system owner have a 20-year contract called the net metering agreement. This contract states the compensation rate for surplus electricity (kWh) delivered by the homeowner to the electricity grid. It also specifies what the homeowner pays for the power they purchase from the utility when the solar panels aren't producing energy, such as at night.

The arrival of NM 3.0: Does it signify the end of new solar energy projects?

The epoch of 2023 has brought substantial changes in the realm of the renewable energy industry, such as the retirement of Net Metering 2.0 and its replacement by a modified version called Net Metering 3.0. PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E are just a few of the notable utility providers in California that have led this evolution.

Changes in NM 2.0 Vs. NM 3.0

· Net Metering 3.0 increases the system size limit for eligible customers from 1 MW to 5 MW.

· Net Metering 3.0 also allows customers to participate in a time-of-use program, compensating customers for excess energy based on the time of day it is exported.

· Net Metering 3.0 introduces a new billing mechanism for customers with solar plus storage systems, compensating customers for the total value of exported during peak periods.

· The new iteration of Net Metering is a drop in compensation for excess energy. In previous versions, an average payment of roughly $0.25 per kW was commonplace, whereas now, with the advent of Net Metering 3.0, the average compensation has plummeted to a mere $0.08 per kW.

· Net Metering 3.0 includes provisions for low-income, community-solar projects, and non-residential customers.

Despite reducing compensation for excess energy under the NM 3.0 program, it still furnishes financial motivations for producing and disseminating solar power into the grid via Net-Metering.

Is solar still a good financial investment?


Is solar still a good financial investment?


Given the significant changes in the energy market after NM 3.0, the answer is a resounding and emphatic YES! Here are several reasons why:

· Eliminating Most Monthly Electric Costs by reducing reliance on utility companies and monthly bills. Bills can be ZERO or a massive reduction.

· Substantial Annual Financial Savings-The potential for significant long-term financial gains (up to $10,000 annually) is a primary driving force behind this burgeoning trend.

· Federal Tax Credit of 30-40% The credit is applied when a solar panel system is purchased and installed on a property, and it offers a percentage of the system's total cost as a credit against federal income taxes owed.

· Battery Storage Units are ideal with NM 3.0. Batteries are also eligible for the federal tax credit, providing even more significant savings on your overall system cost. That's a savings of 30% off the battery cost realized through a tax credit.

Funding Options

Planet Solar offers a number of financing options, including loans, leases and, Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) for those interested in solar energy systems. Accessing solar energy's financial and environmental benefits is easier than ever with the assistance of these excellent solar incentives and funding options.

To summarize, investing in solar energy remains a wise financial decision in 2023 for various reasons, such as eliminating monthly electric costs, annual financial savings, federal tax credits, environmental benefits, battery storage units, and funding options and leases available.

Now, are you ready to capitalize on the verified advantages of solar power?

Join those that have made the successful transition to renewable energy and have elected to partner with Planet Solar to reap the optimal return on investment (ROI) for their residential or commercial property in California.



Planet Solar

If you have any questions about these benefits, call one of our solar experts. We are ready to help you analyze your home, consumption, and situation. We are happy to provide all the information you will need to make an informed decision on whether or not solar is right for you.

We have two locations ready to serve you. If you are in the Greater Coachella Valley area from Palm Springs to Blythe, call us at (760) 341-1413. Our second location is in the Central Valley: in the Greater Fresno Area, call us at (559) 228-9245.


Since 2007, Planet Solar has been a pioneer in the solar panel and home battery installation industry. Our team comprises seasoned solar professionals with 30+ years in the home improvement, energy conservation and technical fields. Our company prides itself on our knowledgeable, friendly, and professional solar consultants, who will help you with all your solar needs. In Planet Solar, you have found a solar installer you can trust.


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