Net metering and export credits in BC and Alberta
Your panels will sometimes produce more than your home is using. That electricity flows to the grid, and how you’re credited for it can change the right size of system and your payback.
| Utility | How exports are credited |
|---|---|
| BC Hydro (new customers from July 1, 2026) | Net billing: production above your use in a billing period earns 10¢/kWh, as a credit against Energy Charges only. |
| BC Hydro (existing net metering customers) | kWh banked at full value; leftover at the yearly anniversary paid at a market-based price. Moves to the new rate after 10 years. |
| FortisBC | Net metering: surplus banked as kWh; yearly balance settled at FortisBC’s power-purchase rate. |
| Alberta (micro-generation) | Each exported kWh earns your retailer’s energy rate, monthly. Delivery charges are not credited. |
Sources: BC Hydro, FortisBC, Government of Alberta.
What it means for system size
In every case, a kWh you use yourself saves more than a kWh you export. So there’s usually a point where adding panels stops paying. On BC Hydro’s new rate, the excess is measured over a whole (usually two-month) billing period, so summer surplus is credited at 10¢ while winter bills are mostly paid at the full rate. Our reports test every layout Google suggests for your roof and pick the size with the best long-term value.
Batteries
A battery stores midday surplus for the evening. It increases how much solar you use yourself but adds significant cost. BC Hydro offers up to $1,500 for a battery paired with solar ($5,000 with Peak Saver).
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