How Net Metering Works in British Columbia — and How It Saves You Money
If you’re thinking about going solar in British Columbia, you’ve probably heard the term “net metering.” But what does it actually mean—and how does it help you save money?
In this post, we’ll explain how the BC Hydro Net Metering Program works, who qualifies, how it affects your electricity bill, and why it’s one of the best reasons to install solar panels in BC.
1. What Is Net Metering?
Net metering is a billing system that lets you send extra electricity your solar panels produce back to the grid. In exchange, you earn energy credits that can be used later when your system isn’t generating enough power—like at night or during cloudy weather.
Instead of wasting unused solar energy, you “store” it with BC Hydro as a credit on your account.
2. How Does Net Metering Work?
- Your solar panels generate electricity during the day.
- Your home or business uses that power first.
- Any extra power goes back to the grid.
- You get a credit for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of surplus power.
- You use that credit when your system doesn’t produce enough.
This keeps your utility bill low and helps you save even more with solar.
3. Who Can Join the Program?
BC Hydro’s Net Metering Program is open to residential and commercial customers who meet these conditions (these may change at any time):
- Your solar (or other renewable) system must be 100 kilowatts or less.
- You must be connected to the BC Hydro grid.
- Your system must follow all electrical and safety codes.
Most homeowners and small businesses easily qualify.
4. How Do the Credits Work?
Your energy bill will show how much power you used from the grid and how much you sent back. BC Hydro subtracts one from the other to calculate your “net” usage.
- If you used more than you generated, you pay the difference.
- If you generated more than you used, you get a credit.
- Credits roll over month to month.
- Each year, if you have leftover credits, you get paid out at a set rate.
This makes solar a smart long-term investment.
5. How Much Can You Save?
Your savings depend on how much solar energy you generate and how much electricity you use. On average, customers with solar panels in BC save between $600 and $1,200 per year.
Over 25 years, that’s $15,000 to $30,000 or more—and even more if energy rates go up in the future.
6. Do You Still Get a Power Bill?
Yes, but it’s usually much smaller. You still pay for electricity you use from the grid when your system isn’t producing enough—especially during the winter.
You may also pay a small monthly basic charge. But if your system is well-sized, your bills could be close to zero for much of the year.
7. Why Net Metering Makes Solar Even Better
- You don’t need to buy an expensive battery right away.
- You reduce your payback period.
- You make the most of every sunny day.
- You protect yourself from rising utility prices.
It’s a simple way to get more value from your solar energy system.
8. How to Sign Up
To enroll in net metering with BC Hydro:
- Work with a licensed solar installer.
- Submit an interconnection application to BC Hydro.
- Install a bi-directional meter (your installer usually arranges this).
- Get approval, connect your system, and start generating!
Your solar company will usually help with the paperwork and technical steps.
9. Net Metering in Victoria: Local Benefits
Victoria’s mild weather and long summer days make it a great place for net metering. Even though winters are cloudy, you can store up enough credits in spring and summer to offset costs later in the year.
Plus, local incentives like the Canada Greener Homes Grant and loan programs make it even more affordable to get started.
Net metering is one of the biggest reasons why solar power makes sense in British Columbia. It allows you to use all the energy your system produces, save money on your hydro bill, and shorten the payback time on your investment.
If you’re ready to reduce your utility costs, increase your energy independence, and make the most of your solar panels, net metering is the way to go.
Tip: Talk to a trusted solar provider today to see how much you can save with net metering in your area.