What is Net Metering?
Net metering allows CEC customers with renewable energy systems to feed excess generated electricity back into the grid. The intent of a net metering arrangement is to allow the member to meet all, or part, of their electric energy requirements by using renewable fuel generation on the member’s premises.
Many solar customers produce more power than they would typically use during daylight hours; therefore, net metering provides an outlet for them to export this excess power to their utility to offset their future electric bills.
How It Works
Once an interconnection passes inspection by Community Electric a net meter will be installed. CEC will measure the electricity produced (generated) as well as the energy used (delivered) at the home. The energy that isn’t immediately used can then be applied to offset future electric bills. In Virginia specifically, members tend to produce more energy in the Spring and Fall, and less energy in the Winter and Summer.
Regulations
In Virginia, the State Corporation Commission has Regulations Governing Net Energy Metering in place.
System Net Energy Metering Capacity
As of January 30, 2026.
| System Peak | Megawatts |
|---|---|
| Base System Peak | 78.9 |
| Less any CSP or MBR Service | 0 |
| Total System Peak Available for NEM | 78.9 |
| Cap | Megawatts |
|---|---|
| Total Residential Cap (3%) | 2.37 |
| Total Nonresidential Cap (1%) | 0.78 |
| Total Nonprofit & Nonjurisdictional Cap (2%) | 1.57 |
| System | Capacity Installed |
|---|---|
| Total Residential Capacity Installed | 1.435 MW |
| Total Nonresidential Capacity Installed | 0.053 MW |
| Total Nonprofit & Nonjurisdictional Capacity Installed | 0.0 MW |
| NEM Capacity | Capacity Available |
|---|---|
| Total Residential Capacity Available | 0.932 MW |
| Total Nonresidential Capacity Available | 0.727 MW |
| Total Nonprofit & Nonjurisdictional Capacity Available (MW) | 1.578 MW |