What Is Net Metering?
Net metering is a metering arrangement in which a meter is installed at the point of delivery that measures power flow in both the forward and reverse directions.
At the end of the billing period, members are billed based on the sum of delivered and received power.
If a member produces more energy than they consume:
- The kWh charge is $0.
- The bill will reflect the excess energy, which shall be credited during the next billing period to the member at the monthly avoided energy cost per kilowatt-hour.
The most recent 12 months of avoided costs are listed at the bottom of this page.
If a member uses more than they produce:
- They are billed for the energy used.
- The monthly service charge for their applicable rate schedule also applies.
Why Net Metering?
The average home consumes about 14,000 to 15,000 kWh per year.
It is very possible for a member to reduce the total energy usage to zero by installing a power generation facility.
Net metering encourages alternative energy sources and promotes a greener Oklahoma.
What Are the Requirements?
There are some requirements in place that a potential small power producer must abide by.
Capacity Limits
- The Oklahoma Corporation Commission limits installed generating capacity to 300 kW or less.
- Installations that are equal to or exceed 125% of the recorded peak demand at a service location will not be eligible for net metering.
Safety Standards
Other requirements hinge around: Safety!
- The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) developed the governing standard for small power production facilities.
- IEEE Standard 1547 defines requirements necessary for a safe and effective power generator.
- Most commercially available installations meet IEEE 1547 requirements, but members should check before purchasing to ensure compliance.
Why Safety Matters
Part of IEEE 1547 addresses the requirement of installed generation to shut down when power is lost on the grid.
This prevents the possibility of a back-feed that could be hazardous to line workers trying to restore power.
Cooperative Access
- Also required is a lockable disconnect accessible by the Cooperative.
- This allows line workers to isolate the power production system from the grid if needed.
Need More Information?
Small-scale electric generation facilities range in size and type, generation medium, options, and installation ease.
These include solar panels and small wind turbines and are known as distributed generation (DG).
Members are encouraged to research all DG options before making a commitment to purchase a system for their home or business.
This includes a conversation to discuss:
- Historical energy use
- Interconnection details
- Any other aspect of a DG system
Please call (800) 256-6405, and 1 of our member service representatives can help you start the conversation.
Application for Standard Interconnection Agreement (PDF) Application to Increase Generation at Existing Interconnection (PDF) Standard Interconnection/Purchase Agreement Form (PDF)Rate Available For Net Metering
As technology develops and, more importantly, becomes cost-effective enough to be purchased on a wide scale, small power production by individuals and small businesses will increase. Northeast Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, Inc. has an established net metering billing option that applies to members who qualify.