How Solar Energy Works: Understanding Net Metering and Seasonal Energy Use
Solar energy is one of the most reliable and sustainable ways to power your home. But beyond simply “making electricity from the sun,” many homeowners want to understand how the energy cycle really works—especially when it comes to net metering and seasonal energy use.
The Solar Energy Cycle and Net Metering
When your solar panels produce electricity, the first priority is to power your home. Any extra energy that you don’t use right away is sent back into the utility grid. With one-to-one net metering, the utility gives you a credit for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you send out.
In winter months, most solar systems generate more energy than a household consumes, especially when cooler weather reduces air conditioning use. That surplus is “banked” with the utility.
In summer months, when your home needs more electricity for cooling, you may produce less than you consume. This is when those winter credits cover the difference, keeping your bill low or even at zero.
In a true one-to-one net metering exchange, this balancing act allows you to design a system for your yearly needs—not just one month at a time.
Utilities Without One-to-One Net Metering
Not all utilities offer the same net metering rules. Some, such as Duke Energy, FPL, and TECO, provide a full credit for your exported energy. Others—like KUA, OUC, and SECO—apply a lower exchange rate when buying back your excess electricity.
What does this mean for you?
If your system was designed to offset your entire year of consumption, you may still see a bill during high-usage summer months. That’s because the credits you earn in winter are worth less when they’re applied later.
Without careful planning, customers in these areas can feel surprised by seasonal bills even when their system is sized correctly.
How Our Team Helps You Choose the Best Option
At Solar Installers of Florida, our goal is to keep you informed and prepared. Our team takes the time to:
Explain the difference between one-to-one and reduced-rate net metering.
Model your energy use across seasons.
Offer tailored solutions—whether that’s designing your system differently, adding battery storage, or adjusting your expectations to fit your utility’s rules.
By walking you through each step, we ensure your solar investment is clear, predictable, and customized for your home.
Final Thoughts
Solar energy works best when you understand not just how panels produce power, but how your utility values that power. With the right system design—and the right partner—you can enjoy maximum savings, greater energy independence, and peace of mind all year long.
