Did you know your solar panels can make your Meralco meter run backwards? It's called net metering — and it's a legal right under Philippine law.
What is Net Metering?
During the day, your solar panels produce electricity
Your home uses what it needs
Excess power flows back to the grid (your meter runs backwards)
At night, you draw power from the grid as normal
You only pay for the net difference
The Legal Basis
Republic Act 9513 (Renewable Energy Act of 2008)
ERC Resolution No. 09, Series of 2013
DOE Circular 2020-01-0001 — raised the cap to 100kW for residential
How Much Can You Earn?
Rate | |
|---|---|
What you pay Meralco | ₱11-14/kWh |
What Meralco pays you (export) | ₱4-6/kWh |
It's always better to consume your own solar power than to export it.
How to Apply for Net Metering
Have your solar system installed by a licensed installer
Get your system inspected
Apply with your distribution utility (Meralco, VECO, etc.)
Submit requirements: application form, single-line diagram, proof of installation, PEC license
Wait for inspection and meter installation (2-4 weeks)
Start exporting!
Tips to Maximize Net Metering
Run heavy appliances during the day — washing machine, water heater, EV charging
Don't oversize your system — exporting at ₱4-6/kWh is a bad deal
Use a timer for your AC — run during peak solar hours (10am-3pm)
Monitor your production — most inverters have apps showing real-time data
Use our free Solar Quotation Tool to see how much you can save with solar + net metering.
Engr. Jason Morales — Founder, SolarEnergyPH