Net Metering in the Philippines — How to Sell Power Back to the Grid

Did you know your solar panels can make your Meralco meter run backwards? It's called net metering — and it's a legal right under Philippine law.

What is Net Metering?

1. During the day, your solar panels produce electricity
2. Your home uses what it needs
3. Excess power flows back to the grid (your meter runs backwards)
4. At night, you draw power from the grid as normal
5. You only pay for the net difference

The Legal Basis

• Republic Act 9513 (Renewable Energy Act of 2008)
• ERC Resolution No. 09, Series of 2013
• DOE Circular 2020-01-0001 — raised the cap to 100kW for residential

How Much Can You Earn?

It's always better to consume your own solar power than to export it.

How to Apply for Net Metering

1. Have your solar system installed by a licensed installer
2. Get your system inspected
3. Apply with your distribution utility (Meralco, VECO, etc.)
4. Submit requirements: application form, single-line diagram, proof of installation, PEC license
5. Wait for inspection and meter installation (2-4 weeks)
6. Start exporting!

Tips to Maximize Net Metering

1. Run heavy appliances during the day — washing machine, water heater, EV charging
2. Don't oversize your system — exporting at ₱4-6/kWh is a bad deal
3. Use a timer for your AC — run during peak solar hours (10am-3pm)
4. Monitor your production — most inverters have apps showing real-time data

Use our free Solar Quotation Tool to see how much you can save with solar + net metering.

Engr. Jason Morales — Founder, SolarEnergyPH