BLUF: ComEd net metering lets Illinois solar customers earn bill credits for excess electricity their solar panels send to the grid. These credits offset future usage at the retail rate, reducing or even eliminating your ComEd electric bill when your system is properly sized and approved.
If you’re a ComEd customer considering solar—or already have it—this guide explains exactly how credits, billing, rates, and application rules work under current Illinois regulations.
What Is ComEd Net Metering?
ComEd net metering is a billing arrangement that measures the difference between the electricity your solar system produces and the electricity you consume from the grid.
When your solar panels generate more power than your home uses:
- The excess electricity flows back to the ComEd grid
- Your meter runs backward digitally
- You earn net metering credits on your bill
When your home needs more power than your panels produce (such as at night), you draw electricity from the grid and use those credits to offset the cost.
Net Metering Illinois Rules (ComEd Territory)
Net metering in Illinois is governed by state law and administered by utilities like ComEd. These rules apply to most residential and small commercial customers.
System Eligibility Requirements
- System must use renewable energy (solar is the most common)
- Must be interconnected with ComEd’s grid
- Residential systems are typically under 10–40 kW
- System size cannot exceed your historical electricity usage
Who Qualifies for ComEd Net Metering?
You qualify if you:
- Are a ComEd electricity delivery customer
- Own or lease a solar PV system
- Complete the ComEd net metering application
- Pass inspection and receive Permission to Operate (PTO)
How Net Metering Credits Work with ComEd
How net metering credits work ComEd customers often ask about timing, value, and rollover. Here’s the clear breakdown.
Monthly Credit Calculation
Each billing cycle, ComEd calculates:
- Total electricity consumed (kWh used)
- Total electricity exported to the grid (kWh generated)
If exports exceed usage, the difference becomes a solar credit on your ComEd bill.
Credit Value
ComEd net metering credits are generally valued at:
- Full retail electricity rate (supply + delivery)
- Measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh)
This makes net metering far more valuable than selling power at wholesale rates.
Do Credits Expire?
In most cases:
- Unused credits roll over month to month
- Credits are applied automatically
- Annual reconciliation may apply depending on your rate class
Any remaining excess at reconciliation is typically compensated at ComEd’s approved supply or avoided cost rate, subject to Illinois rules.
ComEd Solar Credit Rate Explained
The ComEd solar credit rate depends on how your net generation compares to your usage.
| Scenario | Credit Rate | How It Appears |
|---|---|---|
| Usage exceeds solar production | N/A | Normal electricity charges |
| Solar exceeds usage (monthly) | Full retail rate | kWh credit on bill |
| Excess after reconciliation | Supply or avoided cost rate | Bill credit or payment |
Most homeowners aim to size systems to offset 90–110% of annual usage to maximize retail-value credits.
ComEd Solar Billing: What Your Bill Looks Like
ComEd solar billing still includes a monthly bill, even if you generate most of your power.
Key Line Items on a Net Metered Bill
- Total kWh consumed
- Total kWh exported
- Net kWh usage
- Previous credit balance
- New net metering credits earned
You will still see:
- Customer charge
- Metering charge
- Minimum delivery fees
Net metering does not eliminate all charges—but it can reduce the energy portion to near zero.
How to Apply: ComEd Net Metering Application Process
The ComEd net metering application is usually handled by your solar installer, but understanding the steps helps avoid delays.
Step-by-Step Process
- Install solar system (or finalize design)
- Submit interconnection and net metering application
- ComEd reviews system size and documentation
- Local inspection is completed
- ComEd issues Permission to Operate (PTO)
- Net metering becomes active on your account
Approval timelines typically range from 2–6 weeks after final inspection.
Net Metering vs Illinois Solar Incentives
Net metering is only one part of Illinois solar savings.
Other Incentives That Stack with Net Metering
- Illinois Shines SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits)
- Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
- Local rebates or financing programs
Net metering reduces your electric bill, while incentives reduce system cost—together they drive strong ROI.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Oversizing your system beyond allowed usage
- Not verifying net metering enrollment after PTO
- Confusing SREC payments with ComEd bill credits
- Ignoring annual reconciliation rules
Always confirm your account status directly with ComEd once your system is live.
Frequently Asked Questions About ComEd Net Metering
Does ComEd offer full retail net metering?
Yes. ComEd net metering credits excess solar generation at the full retail electricity rate, which includes both supply and delivery charges, subject to Illinois regulations.
Do ComEd net metering credits roll over?
Yes. Net metering credits roll over month to month and are applied automatically to future bills. Annual reconciliation rules may apply.
Can I get paid for excess solar power with ComEd?
If you generate more electricity than you use over the reconciliation period, ComEd may compensate remaining excess at an approved supply or avoided cost rate.
How long does ComEd net metering approval take?
Most applications are approved within 2–6 weeks after final inspection and submission of all required documents.
Is net metering available for battery systems?
Yes. Solar systems paired with batteries can still qualify for net metering, as long as exported electricity comes from renewable generation.
Final Takeaway
ComEd net metering remains one of the most valuable solar benefits in Illinois, allowing homeowners to offset electricity costs with full-value credits. When combined with state and federal incentives, it makes solar a powerful long-term investment.
Ready to maximize your ComEd net metering benefits? Talk to a qualified Illinois solar expert today to size your system correctly, complete the application smoothly, and start earning credits from day one.
