If the sun is out, you can do more than simply enjoy some rays. You can also use it to grow your garden. It is an opportunity for homeowners to save money by installing solar panels, as well to turn their homes into mini power stations. This phenomenon is due to a system called net energy measurement (NEM), an approach that combines the benefits from solar energy with fluctuations in electricity usage.

If you want to know more about net energy metering, it is similar to peeking through the curtain behind a magician. Not only do you see what they are doing but the whole performance. The solar panels you install on your roof begin harvesting the sunlight and converting it to electricity. It’s simple: solar panels collect sunlight, which is then converted into electricity that powers your appliances. But these panels can often produce more than your home needs.

Net energy metering now allows the surplus energy to be sent to grid. This is like giving a neighbor a cup of sweets, but it’s actually green energy. The system works so well that, when your panels go into overdrive in the sun, but you aren’t using a lot of electricity, your meter turns backwards. What a party trick!

Each kilowatt you send to the grid with your solar installation will earn you a credit towards your electricity bill. These credits may be used at times when the panels are snoozing, like during cloudy weather or evenings. However, there are many other benefits that go beyond saving money.

It is as if net energy measurement sprinkles magic dust all over our energy grids. This reduces demand on overworked power grids while reducing the dependence on fossil fuel burning power plants. This results in fewer CO2 emissions and a healthier planet.

This energy swap also helps to build community resilience. If multiple homes generate surplus power in a particular neighborhood, the whole community is able to use it. This decentralized system of energy generation helps the local grid to be more resilient against power interruptions and power outages.

But adopting net metering doesn’t require as much effort as wrestling an ally. The process is more like a smooth and easy dance between local regulations and utility providers, who are often willing to offer solar adopters incentives and support. Also, watching your meter turn backwards never gets old.

Funny enough, net metering makes it feel like you have a bank balance that grows whenever you decide to not spend money. Each bit of energy not used immediately is stored into credits. These savings can be accumulated for rainy-days (literally). By storing every kilowatt as a coin into the renewable energy piggybank, you not only reduce your costs, but create a lasting legacy.

Net energy is not about the sunshine. It works due to the delicate balance between home and energy grid. It allows us to all share a little bit more, save a little extra, and have more reasons to be happy when the sun comes up. Think about this the next time you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon. You can make it more than just a source of warmth and light. It could also be a way to contribute to your household energy solution. We can make the sun do more for us than just provide light and warmth.