Get Credit for Energy You Generate
Lower your PGE electricity bill with energy you create from solar, wind, hydro and other renewable sources.
Lower your PGE electricity bill with energy you create from solar, wind, hydro and other renewable sources.
PGE does not partner with any specific installer. As with any home investment, it is important to get multiple bids.
Understanding Net Metering
Once you enroll in our Net Metering program, the electricity you use from PGE is balanced by the energy you send back to us from your power generating system. Every billing period you only pay for the difference, which is known as "net" usage.
Check out this video to learn more.
How Net Metering credits work
Energy meters that measure both ways
When you are enrolled in Net Metering, your bill is calculated using a bidirectional meter that measures how much electricity you use from PGE as well as how much extra energy your system sends back.
These type of meters measure how much electricity you use from PGE and how much of your excess electricity your system supplies to PGE. They are extra credits shown on the third page of your bill as "excess generation" . Check out a quick video overview of how to read your electric bill with solar Net Metering for more information.
Also, these meters don't track the total energy produced by your system, so your bill might not match exactly what your solar provider reports.
Get credit for energy you generate
If you generate more energy than you use during your monthly bill cycle, you won't have any kilowatt-hour charges on your bill. Instead, you'll receive kilowatt-hour credits that can be used for future electric bills.
Any unused net energy metering credits beyond your monthly usage will build up in your PGE account. You can also refer to the Net Metering rate schedule for complete details.
March true-up
Every March, your annual billing cycle wraps up and any unused energy credits are donated to customers in low-income bill assistance programs.
This is also when your account resets for the new billing period. If you'd prefer your bill cycle to end in a different month, just contact the Net Metering coordinator at netmetering@pgn.com to request a change.
Avoid installation surprises
Solar done right
For the best experience, be sure to keep this helpful checklist handy during your project.
How to get started with your Net Metering application
While your solar contractor should handle the paperwork, it's a good idea to know what's needed. PGE reviews your Net Metering application to ensure your project won't affect the safety, reliability or power quality for your neighbors. Most projects don't need major upgrades, but if they do, state rules require us to pass on the cost to the customer. We'll work with you to identify any costs, so you can decide whether to move forward.
It's important to submit your application and get approval before starting your project. Early consultation and approval helps prevent delays and costly mistakes. We'll review your application quickly, typically within 5–30 business days depending on its complexity.
Wait for approval before installing your project.
1. Complete the Net Metering application.
Before starting construction, submit your Net Metering application in PowerClerk that fits your project.
Check the descriptions below to find the right application for your project. For full details, see PGE's Net Metering rules from the Oregon Public Utility Commission.
Tier 1 applications are for inverter-based systems with a generator capacity of 50 kW or less and an export of 25 kW AC or less. There is no application fee.
Tier 2 applications are for inverter-based systems with a maximum generation capacity of 2 MW. The application fee is $50 plus $1 per kW of capacity.
Tier 4 applications are for non-inverter-based systems or systems not using lab-tested equipment. The application fee is $100 plus $2 per kW of capacity. Note: This application is also for systems where the Tier 1 or Tier 2 application review found that more extensive studies, upgrades or protection equipment are necessary.
For Net Metering Eligibility, residential systems up to 25 kW AC generation capacity and non-residential systems up to 2 MW AC generation capacity.
To complete your application, make sure all fields are filled out and any fees are paid. You'll need to include details like location, equipment specs and contact info. Be sure to upload any supporting documents, such as a site plan, single-line diagram and equipment specs. Once submitted, the review process usually takes 15–30 business days.
2. Get your results from PGE.
You'll get PGE's review results by email, with one of four outcomes:
Application updates required: We'll send a list of what's missing from your application. If a contractor submitted the application for you, they'll also get the list. Please provide the missing information within 10 business days.
Approved
Action required: If an issue arises, you and your installer will be given some options for next steps. These include meeting with PGE to discuss the findings and talk about potential ways to move the project forward, requesting a $1,000 Supplemental Review or resubmitting as a Tier 4 application with fees.
Approved contingent upon modifications: If upgrades to PGE's equipment are needed, we'll provide details and costs. You can choose to proceed, request a Supplemental Review or resubmit as Tier 4 application.
3. Upload your approved inspection document.
When your system is built and has passed the city or county electrical inspection, please upload your approved inspection document into your PowerClerk project. Proof of approved inspection results is required. You can get this report from your contractor or contact your local municipality to obtain your inspection results ().
4. Wait to hear from PGE Meter Services to schedule an inspection and install your meter.
Once we have the Net Metering Agreement and your approved electric inspection in PowerClerk, our Meter Services team will reach out via email to schedule your bidirectional meter installation and final inspection.
You can find your approved city or county inspection results online at the State of Oregon Permitting System website or from your city or county website.
5. Pass your on-site inspection.
During our on-site inspection, you'll need to demonstrate the operation of your equipment. If you're unsure how to do this, your solar installer can help. Once your system is approved, we'll install a bidirectional meter and you'll get a document granting permission to operate your system. After that, you're all set to enjoy the benefits of the Net Metering program!
Bundle it up
If you have multiple billing meters at the same location, you may qualify for meter aggregation. This means any leftover kilowatt-hour credits on your net meter at the end of the month can be applied to your other qualifying meters.
Battery storage + solar
By adding battery storage to your solar or wind, you make your home more resilient during an emergency or outage. Plus, if you join our new Smart Battery Pilot program, you’ll help add even more renewable energy to the grid.
Help your neighbors
Under the Oregon Public Utility Commission’s rules, 
Net Metering credits that remain unused at the end of the annual billing cycle are transferred to customers enrolled in low-income assistance programs.
Did you move into a home with solar panels?
Let's make sure you're getting the credit you deserve for your solar! Please email us or call us at 503-228-6322 and we'll be happy to help.
More Oregon Net Metering resources
We've covered a lot about our Net Metering program. Here are a few more resources that might be helpful:
