What Is the Net Metering Calculator?
The Net Metering Calculator is a free online tool designed for users who need quick, accurate calculations in the practical calculation space. By entering your solar system size, average peak sun hours / day, monthly electricity usage, you get instant results including monthly solar production, monthly export, self-use savings. No formulas to memorize, no spreadsheets to build — just enter your numbers and get the answer in seconds. Whether you're a beginner or experienced professional, this calculator saves you time and eliminates guesswork.
Why This Calculation Matters
Getting monthly solar production right can make the difference between success and costly mistakes. In practical calculation, small errors compound quickly. Manual calculations are error-prone and time-consuming, especially under pressure. This calculator applies proven formulas used by users worldwide, giving you confidence that your numbers are correct. Use it to get accurate results with precision and avoid common pitfalls that trip up beginners.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
This tool is most useful when you know your solar system size and need to find the right monthly solar production. It's also great for quick estimates before committing to a decision, and to double-check manual calculations or professional quotes, and when comparing different scenarios side by side. Bookmark this page and come back whenever you need a fast, reliable answer — the calculator is always free and requires no signup.
Net Metering Calculator
Calculate your solar net metering savings and export credits.
Net Metering Rates by State
Export credit rates compared to retail rates (2026)
| State | Avg Retail Rate | Net Metering Rate | NM Type | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 32¢/kWh | 5–8¢/kWh | NEM 3.0 (reduced) | Grandfathered NEM 2.0 better |
| Texas | 13¢/kWh | Varies by retailer | Market-based | Shop for best buyback |
| Florida | 14¢/kWh | 14¢/kWh | Full retail 1:1 | Good while it lasts |
| New York | 22¢/kWh | VDER credits | Value-based | Complex but decent |
| Arizona | 14¢/kWh | 8–10¢/kWh | Reduced | Less generous than before |
| Massachusetts | 28¢/kWh | 28¢/kWh | Full retail 1:1 | Excellent for solar |
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter Your Solar System Size (kW): Start by entering your solar system size — this is the primary input for the calculation.
- Fill In Additional Details: Complete the remaining fields: average peak sun hours / day, monthly electricity usage, retail electricity rate, net metering export rate, self-consumption rate. Each value refines the calculation for greater accuracy.
- Click Calculate: Hit the Calculate button to run the numbers. Results appear instantly below.
- Review Your Results: Check your monthly solar production, monthly export, self-use savings. Use these figures to inform your next decision or compare against alternative scenarios.
How It Works
Net metering allows solar panel owners to send excess electricity back to the grid in exchange for credits on their utility bill. This calculator models your production, self-consumption, and export credits to estimate total savings.
The basic rule:
- Monthly solar production = system size (kW) × peak sun hours × 30 days × 0.80 efficiency factor
- Self-consumed solar offsets electricity at the full retail rate (most valuable)
- Exported solar earns credits at the net metering rate, which may be less than retail depending on your utility
- Remaining usage after solar offset is purchased from the grid at the full retail rate
Net metering policies vary significantly by state and utility. Some offer full retail rate credits (1:1 net metering), while others pay a lower avoided-cost or wholesale rate for exports. Check your utility's current net metering policy — many states are transitioning to less generous programs.
Tips & Considerations
- Double-check your solar system size before calculating — even small input errors can significantly change your results.
- Run the calculator with different values to compare scenarios and find the optimal approach for your situation.
- Pay attention to both monthly solar production and monthly export — they work together to give you the full picture.
- Bookmark this page for quick access next time you need to get accurate results.
- If you're unsure about your self-consumption rate, start with a conservative estimate and adjust from there.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is net metering?
Net metering is a billing arrangement where your utility credits you for excess solar electricity you send to the grid. When your panels produce more than you use (typically midday), the excess flows to the grid and your meter effectively runs backward. You use those credits when you need grid power (evenings, nights, cloudy days). Your bill reflects the net difference.
Is net metering being phased out?
Many states are transitioning away from full 1:1 net metering. California moved to NEM 3.0 in 2023, which significantly reduced export credits. Other states are considering similar changes. If you are considering solar, current net metering rates may be grandfathered for 10-20 years, making it advantageous to install sooner rather than later.
What is the difference between retail and export rates?
The retail rate is what you pay to buy electricity from the grid (e.g., 16¢/kWh). The export rate is what you earn for sending solar power to the grid. Under full net metering, these are equal. Under newer programs (like California NEM 3.0), the export rate may be only 4-8¢/kWh, making self-consumption and battery storage much more valuable.
How does a battery affect net metering savings?
A battery lets you store excess solar for evening use instead of exporting at a low rate. If your export rate is much lower than retail, a battery can save the difference (e.g., store at 5¢ export value, use at 16¢ retail value = 11¢/kWh gained). Batteries make the most financial sense when export rates are low relative to retail rates.
Is the Net Metering Calculator free to use?
Yes, completely free with no signup required. Use it as many times as you need — there are no limits or hidden fees.