Resources > Net metering in D.C.

Net metering in D.C.

• Factsheet

May 24, 2024

What is net metering?

Net metering is the policy that allows people with solar to get a credit on their electric bill for the energy they produce from their system.

Net Metering in D.C.

System requirements include:

• System capacity limit:
  • 200% in 2024 and after
  • 180% in 2023
  • 160% in 2022
  • 140% in 2021
  • 120% of customer electricity usage through 2020
• Monthly excess generation credit rate: Full retail
• Annual excess generation credit rate: Full retail (credit rolls over indefinitely)
• State-wide net metering cap: None specified
• Policies expanding net metering: Virtual net metering (community solar)
• Additional barriers: None specified

D.C. Code § 34–1518 and D.C. Municipal Regulations Chapter 15-9 establish the rules and regulations for net metering in the District. Individual systems up to 1 megawatt (MW) are eligible, as well as community solar systems up to 5 MW. PEPCO is required to offer net metering while competitive electricity suppliers are not.

Billing and compensation

Utility customers with net metered systems will be credited for each kilowatt produced by their system and each month will be billed for the number of kilowatt hours they used, minus the number of kilowatt hours generated.

If your generation exceeds your usage for a month, you will receive a credit for each excess kilowatt hour, to be applied in later months when you generate less electricity than you consume. Credit for excess generation will roll over from month-to-month indefinitely.

Other types of net metering in D.C.

Virtual net metering (D.C. Bill 20-0057) gave D.C. homeowners the option to purchase electricity through virtual net metering from community renewable energy facilities (CREFs). Facilities must be less than 5 MW in capacity and have at least two subscribers. CREF subscribers own or lease a “share” of the facility and each month their utility bill is credited for a certain amount of kilowatt hours based on the size of their share.

Take action

• If you’re having trouble with net metering, post to the D.C. listserv to get help.
• File a complaint with the D.C. Public Service Commission.
• Check the commission’s calendar to stay informed on current issues and attend hearings.
• Find out if you are eligible for D.C. PSC’s Low Income Discount Program

D.C. resources

• PEPCO
• Value of Solar Study – Office of People’s Counsel