Back in December, Ontario’s Independent Electricity System operator announced that the final 50MW procurement target for Solar PV Micro-FIT contracts had been reached.  Unlike other years, meeting this target in 2017 meant the end of the Micro-FIt contract for good in Ontario, marking the end of an exciting era for renewable generation.  This should finally make a clear path for residential net-metering and we hope to hear some formal announcement regarding guidelines – likely set to come in the summer of 2018.  
What we do know now is that Net-Metering is a viable solution for many Ontario residents and business owners already.  In rural areas, where electricity rates are higher, solar already makes sense for many consumers.  A quick overview – Net metering allows you to generate electricity when the sun shines, store any excess, unused power as a credit on your bill with the utility and draw from the grid when the sun isn’t shining.  The grid/utility act as your solar storage bank!
Solar systems are very smart now and can work in conjunction with ‘smart-meters’ to allow you to get a really clear picture of your power consumption and generation – and the subsequent ‘net’ amount – in real-time.  This allows you to be empowered with great data if there are any conflicts with your billing. 
If you’d like to better understand what net-metering might look like on your home, farm or small business, send us your information and we’d be happy to provide you with a free design package.