Do you have questions about Net Metering? Our downloadable FAQs illustrate the net metering process and answer the top ten questions.
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What is an "Interconnection"?
An "Interconnection" is an electric connection between a utility's energy grid and a private generation system that has the capability to send energy to a utility's energy grid. Private generation systems that can send energy to a utility's energy grid are also referred to as Distributed Generation (DG).
Do I have to submit an Interconnection Application for my private generation system?
I’m installing additional generating capacity on my private generation system but not exceeding my inverter nameplate capacity, do I need to resubmit new Interconnection and Net Metering applications?
New Interconnection and Net Metering applications must be resubmitted any time a private generation system is being changed, replaced or upgraded causing the operational characteristics to change (e.g., kW size, inverter type, etc.).
For more information, please email Interconnect@ComEd.com.
You can start by visiting ComEd.com/Interconnection to access ComEd's Interconnection Application. At the bottom of the Distribution < 10,000 KVA page, you can find a link to submit the Interconnection Application.
ComEd recommends completing the Interconnection Application online to expedite the application process; however, forms are available for download and can be emailed, faxed or mailed to the address below:
Website: https://secure.comed.com/ContractorConnect/
Email: interconnect@ComEd.com
Address: ComEd Attn: Interconnect Services Department 2 Lincoln, 9th Floor Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Fax: 1-630-437-2354
Yes. Downloaded applications can be mailed to the address below:
ComEd Attn: Interconnect Services Department 2 Lincoln Center, 9th Floor Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
However, ComEd recommends completing the Interconnection Application online to reduce paper use and expedite the application process.
Interconnection Applications are classified by the size and type of generating system being installed per Illinois Administrative Code 466. Each level of Interconnection has a different review process time and fee:
Level 1: 25 kW or less, lab-certified, inverter-based DG facility, approximately 22 business days, $50.00
Level 2: over 25 kW but 5 MW or less, lab-certified DG facility, approximately 65 business days, $100.00 plus $1.00/kVA
Level 3: over 5 MW but 10 MW or less, the DG facility does not export power, approximately 75 business days, $500.00 plus $2.00/kVA
Level 4: 10 MW or less, that do not qualify for Levels 1 through 3, approximately 130-145 business days, $1,000 plus $2.00 /kVA
*If the generating system exceeds 10 MW, refer to Illinois Administrative Code 467, approximately 170-190 days.
The Net Metering application review process is 10 business days from receipt of a complete application. If ComEd is not your energy supplier, you can apply to participate in Net Metering with your energy supplier.
Why could my Interconnection Application be delayed or denied?
If the inverter is UL-approved, why do I need the Certificate of Compliance?
The State of Illinois follows the UL-1741 testing standard for inverters, which requires the Certificate of Compliance to verify the inverter has been tested and will operate as intended.
Where do I find the Technical Specification Sheet?
Do I need to install an external disconnect switch to interconnect my private generation system?
ComEd does not require an External Disconnect Switch (EDS) for single phase, self-contained services up to 240 volts, and a maximum of 200 amperes. An EDS is required for all other service types, including single phase self-contained greater than 240 volts, single phase self-contained greater than 200 amperes, three-phase self-contained, and transformer-rated services.
Can you recommend a reputable installer?
ComEd cannot recommend an installer for your project. However, a list of certified installers is maintained by the following organizations:
An Interconnection Application is required for all inverter-based generation systems, including micro-inverters. On the application, enter the kW output value shown on one of the micro-inverter nameplates and the quantity of micro-inverters utilized in the generation system (1kW = 1000 watts). Where the application asks for the total capacity of the generation system, include the total nameplate capacity in kW (i.e., the sum of all nameplate ratings) of all micro-inverters.
Can I operate my private generation system prior to receiving the final written Authorization to Operate?
No. You cannot operate your private generation system until:
(1) your Interconnection Application has been approved by ComEd,
(2) you have submitted a Certificate of Completion to ComEd in accordance with Illinois Administrative Code Title 83 Part 466 and have received a signed Certificate of Completion from ComEd, and
(3) you have satisfied all requirements as stated in Rider POGNM.
You can submit Appendix B, Certificate of Completion once.
For safety reasons, a private generating system's inverter that is connected to the smart grid is designed to shut down automatically when a power outage occurs.
Please contact your municipality to determine if a final inspection is required. If an electrical inspection is not required, please note “Final electrical inspection not required” on your Appendix B, Certificate of Completion.
If you move into a home or business with a private generation system already installed, you will need to complete the Ownership/Name Change Form to the best of your ability and send this to interconnect@comed.com within 60 days of starting service. You do not need to submit a new Interconnection or Net Metering Application.
For more information, email GPCteam@ComEd.com or call 800-TALK-GEN (800-825-5436).
When you participate in Net Metering, you can lower your energy bill by producing some of the energy you use with an eligible, private solar energy system installed at your facility. Your energy bills will reflect the net amount of energy you use (i.e., the amount of energy delivered to you minus the excess energy sent to the smart grid). "Net Metering" also allows you to receive Net Metering credits on your energy bill when you produce more energy than you use.
What are net metering credits?
You can participate in Net Metering after receiving approval of your Net Metering application and a signed Certificate of Completion from ComEd confirming your system has been installed. You can apply to participate in Net Metering at ComEd.com/NetMetering. Scroll down to the Apply for Net Metering page section and choose the Net Metering Application.
To participate in Net Metering, the ComEd meter at your location must be capable of measuring the amount of energy we deliver to you and the excess amount you sent to the smart grid. ComEd will verify the type of meter currently installed at your location. If you have a smart meter, you will not need a new meter. If you do not have a smart meter, the meter at your location will be exchanged for a smart meter. You can determine if you have a smart meter by looking at the meter number on your energy bill. If you have a smart meter, the meter number has nine digits and begins with "2."
No. A smart meter records data on two channels. Channel 1 measures the amount of energy delivered to you. Channel 2 measures the amount of excess energy you sent to the smart grid. When you participate in Net Metering, you are charged only for the net amount of energy you use during each monthly billing period (i.e., the amount of energy delivered to you minus the excess energy you sent to the smart grid). And, you will receive credits on your energy bill when you produce more energy than you need.
If you have one electric meter at your location, there is no incremental charge for the smart meter which is needed to participate in Net Metering. If you have more than one electric meter, there may be additional charges under the provisions of Rider ML – Meter-Related Facilities Lease.
If a smart meter needs to be installed, it may take up to five business days for installation after the Interconnection and Net Metering applications have been approved and the Interconnection process has been completed. For timeframes on this process, see the Acquire & Finance section below.
ComEd's Net Metering application is available at ComEd.com/NetMetering. Scroll down to the Apply for Net Metering page section and choose the Net Metering Application.
ComEd recommends completing the Net Metering Application online to expedite the application process; however, forms are available for download and can be emailed, faxed or mailed to the address below:
Website: Comed.com/interconnection
Email: netmetering@ComEd.com
Address: ComEd Attn: Interconnect Services Department1 Lincoln Center, 5th FloorOakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Fax: 1-630-437-3680
Which application should I submit first?
You can submit the Interconnection Application and a Net Metering Application at the same time. However, the Interconnection Application must be approved first. If the Interconnection Application is not completed and approved, you will not be able to participate in Net Metering. Conditional approval for Net Metering will be withdrawn if an Interconnection Application is not submitted within 30 business days after receiving notice of the conditional approval of the Net Metering Application.
No. ComEd cannot purchase SRECs. If you are interested in selling your SRECs, visit the Illinois Power Agency website at http://www.illinois.gov/sites/ipa/Pages/default.aspx
If ComEd is not your energy supplier, you can still participate in Net Metering by submitting a Net Metering application to ComEd. Once you have an approved Net Metering application, you can switch energy suppliers and will retain Net Metering without having to re-apply.
Energy production from solar energy systems can fluctuate because of several factors—clouds, darkness and dirty panels all limit energy production. Your private solar generation system may not produce all the energy you need. Prior to installation, understand how your system will operate under varying conditions, and how these conditions can impact your energy bill.
If I produce more energy than I use, what Net Metering credits do I receive on my energy bill?
When you produce more energy than you use, you will receive net metering credits on your bill that lower energy supply and other kWh-based charges. The customer charge and standard meter charges apply to all bills and are not affected by net metering credits. Net metering credits are determined based on the price you pay for energy from your supplier and whether you have elected to receive the ComEd DG Rebate.
If you elect to receive the ComEd Distributed Generation Rebate (DG Rebate), you will only receive net metering credits on your bill that lower energy supply charges— net metering credits will NOT lower other kWh-based charges such as distribution and transmission service charges.
The customer charge and standard meter charges apply to all energy bills and are not affected by credits you receive on your energy bill when you produce more energy than you need.
Yes, Net Metering customers, and entities who own and operate community solar energy systems, are eligible for a ComEd Distributed Generation Rebate (DG Rebate) of up to $300/kW (DC-rated nameplate capacity).
Net Metering customers, and entities who own and operate community solar energy systems, are required to have a smart inverter that can communicate with ComEd, and help support the smart grid when needed, through ComEd-specified settings. (Systems installed prior to June 1, 2017 not required to have a smart inverter.)
If you elect to receive the ComEd DG Rebate, you will only receive net metering credits on your bill that lower energy supply charges—net metering credits will NOT lower other kWh-based charges such as distribution and transmission service charges.
Please visit Distributed Generation Rebates for more information.
ComEd will purchase SRECs through contracts awarded by the Illinois Power Agency (IPA). SREC prices will be established by the IPA and depend on the type of solar energy system: < 10 kW private solar energy systems, 10 kW to 2 MW private solar energy systems and large-scale community solar energy systems. ComEd will purchase SRECs through 15-year contracts and contract prices will not change during the period of the contract.
Additional information about how to apply for a SREC contract is expected to be provided by the IPA later this year.
How large of a private solar energy system can I install and participate in Net Metering?
You are eligible to participate in Net Metering if you own or operate an eligible, private solar energy system. To participate in Net Metering, your system should be sized to meet some or all of your current or future energy needs. Net metering credits will expire at the end of the annual period specified on the Net Metering Election Form.
What if my private solar energy system is sized to produce more energy than I use in a year?
If your private solar energy system is sized to produce more than your annual energy usage, you will receive credits on your bill when you produce more energy than you need. You will not receive credits on your bill that lower other charges such as distribution and transmission service charges. Net metering credits will expire at the end of the annual period specified on the Net Metering Election Form.
Can I be enrolled in both Peak Time Rebate (PTR) and Net Metering?
Customers enrolled in Rider PTR – Peak Time Rebate will be removed from the program effective with an enrollment under Rider POGNM – Parallel Operation of Retail Customer Generating Facilities with Net Metering.
The CFRA supports energy resources in Illinois, fueled by nuclear power and connected to transmission grid, that help minimize carbon emissions.
The CFRA was filed in compliance with Public Act 102-0662 ("Climate and Equitable Jobs Act") and provides a process through which ComEd recovers or credits retail customers for the procurement of Carbon Mitigation Credits ("CMC") from nuclear-powered carbon-free energy resources. The market price for the CMCs can be positive or negative, based on wholesale energy prices.
The CFRA applies to all customers, regardless of who they purchase their energy supply service from (i.e. from ComEd or a Retail Electric Supplier (RES)). The CFRA will be in effect starting with June 2022 bills and will continue for a period of 5 years. It can be a credit or a charge depending on market energy prices. Due to current high wholesale energy prices, the price for CMCs is negative, indicating a credit to customers through the application of the CFRA.
Like the Supply and Delivery sections of the bill, the 'Net Metering - Adjustment' line item in the Taxes & Fees section of the bill is based on the sum of the per-kWh line items. The 'Net Metering - Adjustment' line item takes the per kWh line item charge rates and changes them to the negative (to create the credit) and that is why in the Taxes and Fees section, the Net Metering - Adjustment (which includes the negative of the CFRA) ends up being a charge. And doing those calculations results in a bill being based on the net kWh from the grid.
The CFRA applied to customer bills supports generating resources in Illinois fueled by nuclear power. ComEd recovers costs or provides credits for the program by charging or crediting customers' usage. You receive credits under the CFRA for all the energy you purchase "from the grid."
Provided market energy prices remain high, the CFRA will continue to be a credit on customer bills. This can change to a charge in the event market energy prices fall in the future.
This happens on a routine basis with the application of the Purchased Electricity Adjustment (PEA), or for hourly supplied customers, the Hourly Purchased Electricity Adjustment (HPEA). When either of these rates is a credit, the "Net Metering Credit – Supply" line-item is reduced by the PEA or HPEA rate, whichever is applicable. As is the case with the large negative value of the CFRA, the negative value of the PEA or HPEA turns into a charge for energy sold back to the grid.
You generated more energy that was sold to the grid than you used from the grid. The monetary generation credits exceeded the charges for energy purchased. This resulted in an excess credit balance on your account. This excess credit can be applied to future charges on your account.
