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.
Featured Rooftop Solar Resources
Principles for the Evolution of Net Metering & Rate Design
Solar Automated Permit Processing
Solar Cost-Benefit Studies
Rooftop Solar Initiatives & Policies
Local Permitting
Learn MoreGrid Modernization
Learn MoreUtility Rate Design
Learn MoreRebates & Incentives
Learn MoreSolar Access Rights
Learn MoreProperty-Assessed Clean Energy
Learn MoreRelated News
Georgia PSC Vote Prioritizes Utility Profits Over Residents and Solar Customers
ATLANTA and WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) voted on a final order in the Georgia Power Company (GPC) rate case. The order fails to expand the successful rooftop solar pilot program that the PSC created in 2020.
Solar and Storage Industry Statement on CPUC's Revised Net Metering Proposal
SACRAMENTO and WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) revealed its revised proposal to change the state’s net metering rules. Following is a statement from Sean Gallagher, vice president of state and regulatory affairs for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA):
Solar and Storage Industry Reacts to Revised Net Metering Proposal in California
Today, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) issued a revised proposal to change the state’s net metering rules. The proposal replaces retail rate compensation with a net billing structure for new solar and storage customers.