What Is Net Metering, and Do I Qualify?

If you're considering commercial solar panel installation in Columbus or anywhere in Ohio, you've probably heard about net metering. But what is it, really—and more importantly, how does it help your business?

What Is Net Metering?

Net metering is a billing arrangement between you and your utility company. It allows you to earn credits on your electric bill for any extra electricity your solar panels generate and send back to the grid.

Here’s how it works:

• Your business uses solar panels to generate electricity.

• Any extra electricity you don’t use gets sent back to the utility grid.

• Your utility gives you credit for that excess energy.

• You use those credits to offset your electricity use when your solar system isn’t producing—like at night or on cloudy days.

At the end of the month, you’re only billed for your “net” energy use. If your system generated more than you used, your credit rolls forward.

Do Commercial Properties in Ohio Qualify?

Yes, most commercial utility customers in Ohio qualify for net metering, especially in major service areas like AEP Ohio and FirstEnergy. The exact rate structure and terms depend on your specific utility provider, but the core benefit—credit for your excess power—remains the same.

How BC Solar Helps

When you partner with BC Solar, we don’t leave this to chance.

• We’ll verify your eligibility with your utility provider.

• We factor in net metering projections in your proposal.

• You’ll get a clear, honest estimate of how much you’ll save—including how net metering plays into your ROI.

As one of our recent commercial clients put it:

“Brian broke down how net metering would affect our utility bill in plain language. We knew exactly what to expect—no guesswork.”

Why Net Metering Matters for Businesses

For commercial properties, energy costs can be one of your biggest operating expenses. Net metering adds value to your solar investment by:

• Reducing payback time

• Improving cash flow

• Making use of all the solar energy your system produces

It’s one more reason why solar makes sense—not just for sustainability, but for your bottom line.

FAQs

How do I apply for net metering in Ohio?

Your solar installer (that’s us) handles it. We work directly with your utility provider to complete and submit the application.

Do I still need a battery if I have net metering?

Not necessarily. Net metering helps offset energy use, but batteries provide backup power when the grid goes down. Many businesses choose both for full resilience.

Will net metering credits expire?

It depends on your utility provider’s policies. Some allow unlimited rollover, while others may settle annually.

Want a clear answer on your building’s eligibility for net metering?
Call BC Solar at (614) 442-9700 or visit https://bc.solar to schedule your free solar assessment. We’ll do the legwork so you can focus on running your business.