SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/solar-net-meter

Under net metering, what does your electric meter do when your solar sends extra power to the grid?

It spins backward.

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  1. It spins faster
  2. It spins backward ✔
  3. It stops permanently

Why: A two-way meter counts power you pull from the grid and power you send back. Extra solar can offset what you use later.

Huh, didn't know that: DOE says you will probably need an interconnection agreement with your power provider.

The dad joke
Net metering: the only time running backward is a good thing.
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References

Answer: It spins backward. A two-way meter counts power you pull from the grid and power you send back. Extra solar can offset what you use later.

  1. DOE Energy Saver: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems www.energy.gov/energysaver/grid-connected-renewable-energy-systems
    The meter spins forward as you draw electricity, and it spins backward as the excess is fed into the grid.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. DOE Energy Saver: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems www.energy.gov/energysaver/grid-connected-renewable-energy-systems
    you will probably need to sign an interconnection agreement with your power provider
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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