Rooftop Solar
Electricity produced at or near the point where it is used is called Distributed Generation (DG). Distributed solar energy can be located on rooftops or ground-mounted, and is typically connected to the local utility distribution grid. There are a wide variety of policies at the federal, state and local level that impact distributed solar and its customers.
Spotlight: Net Metering
Net metering allows residential and commercial customers who generate their own electricity from solar power to sell the electricity they aren't using back into the grid. Many states have passed net metering laws. In other states, utilities may offer net metering programs voluntarily or as a result of regulatory decisions. Differences between state legislation, regulatory decisions and implementation policies mean that the mechanism for compensating solar customers varies widely across the country.
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Principles for the Evolution of Net Metering & Rate Design
Solar Automated Permit Processing
Solar Cost-Benefit Studies
Rooftop Solar Initiatives & Policies
Local Permitting
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Learn MoreUtility Rate Design
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Learn MoreRelated News
New York Public Service Commission Extends Net Metering for Solar Customers Based on COVID Impacts
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today the New York Public Service Commission (NYPSC) signaled that it will extend net metering through January 2022 for current customers based on the devastating impact COVID-19 has had on the solar industry. In addition, the NYPSC established modest changes to net metering that will impact future rooftop solar customers in 2022.
FERC Makes the Right Decision, Dismisses Misguided Net Metering Petition
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission today rejected a controversial petition to end state and local jurisdiction over net metering programs. The petition was brought by the New England Ratepayers Association (NERA) and drew significant bipartisan pushback from around the country.
Final SMART Program Regulations Now Protect Already Planned Solar Projects
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following is a statement from David Gahl, senior director of state affairs, northeast at the Solar Energy Industries Association, on the publication of the final SMART regulations from the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER).