Net Metering in Ontario

Net metering remains one of the most effective ways for Ontario homeowners and businesses to reduce their electricity bills using renewable power. If you generate more electricity than you use, you can feed that excess into the grid and earn credits that offset future consumption. At Smart Electric Services, we make the entire process—from approval to installation—simple and worry-free.

How Net Metering Works

With net metering, you stay connected to the grid while generating some or all of your own electricity from a renewable source, such as solar panels.

When your renewable energy system (such as solar PV) generates more energy than you consume, the excess flows back into the utility grid.
Your smart meter measures the exported energy and your utility issues a kWh credit, not a cash payment.
These credits reduce your future electricity usage costs on eligible portions of your bill.
Credits typically carry forward for up to 12 months (exact rules can vary by distributor).
You remain connected to the grid, which supplies power when your system produces less than you need.
Most small residential and commercial systems for net metering are within the distributed generation limit (often up to 500 kW, depending on the utility).

Who Is Eligible?

Most Ontario customers connected to the distribution grid can participate in net metering as long as their renewable energy system meets regulatory and safety requirements.

You must be connected to an Ontario local distribution company (e.g. Hydro One).
Your system must use a renewable fuel: solar, wind, water, biomass, or biogas.
The system must primarily offset your own electricity use at the same property.
Your installer must follow Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) codes and connection rules (which we do).
A distributor-approved connection application (such as micro-generation/net metering forms) is required before installation.

Why Choose Net Metering?

✔ Lower electricity bills
Generate your own power and reduce what you purchase from the grid.

✔ Earn surplus credits
Use kWh credits later when your system produces less, such as at night or in winter.

✔ Reliable and low maintenance
Once installed, solar systems typically require minimal upkeep and can operate for decades.

Important Things to Know

While net metering is straightforward in principle, there are several important details to keep in mind so your system performs well and meets all regulatory requirements.

Some charges on your bill (such as fixed service and certain delivery charges) cannot be offset with credits.
Your system should be sized so you use most of what you generate—unused credits can expire after the carry-forward period.
Battery systems can be paired with solar, but exporting stored energy may be restricted depending on your utility and connection agreement.
ESA inspections, proper disconnects, and anti-islanding protection are mandatory for safety.
The net-metering or generation connection application must be approved by your distributor before the system is energized.

How Our Services Help

From consultation to connection, we provide a complete start-to-finish solution. Our licensed electricians and solar specialists handle every technical and administrative step so you can focus on the benefits of renewable energy.

On-site assessment and system design tailored to your home or business
Solar equipment sourcing and configuration (panels, inverters, monitoring)
All ESA permits and inspections coordinated on your behalf
Utility connection submissions (for Hydro One and other local distributors)
Installation by licensed electrical contractors serving the Ottawa Valley and surrounding areas
Monitoring setup and basic performance review after commissioning

How to Get Started

Getting started with net metering and solar is easier than most people think. Here’s what the typical process looks like:

Contact us for a no-obligation consultation.
We assess your home or business, roof or ground space, shading, and electrical service.
You receive a recommended system size with estimated energy production and bill savings.
We submit the necessary net-metering and connection application forms to your distributor.
Our licensed electricians install your system safely and professionally.
After inspection and approval, your system is commissioned and begins generating clean energy.

Summary

Net metering remains one of Ontario’s best tools for reducing electricity costs while embracing clean, renewable energy. With Smart Electric Services, you get expert installation, a smooth approval process, and long-term support for your solar investment.

Ready to Learn More?

Get in touch with our Smart Electric Services for a free assessment and see how net metering can work for your home or business in the Greater Ottawa Valley and beyond.

Note: Program eligibility, rules, and connection requirements can change over time. Always confirm current details with your local electricity distributor (e.g. Hydro One) before making final decisions.