Net metering
By Priya Nair · Last reviewed A billing arrangement in which exported solar energy earns credit against consumed grid energy, historically at or near retail rates. Most plug-in solar frameworks do not include net metering: exported surplus is typically uncompensated, which is why self-consumption dominates the economics.
Why it matters
Assuming rooftop-style export credit is one of the costliest planning errors in this category. Unless your utility explicitly credits plug-in exports, model savings from self-consumed energy only — and treat any export value as a bonus, not a plan.