Net Metering (Solar)

Washington state’s net metering law is designed to let customer-generators offset their electricity consumption with a renewable energy system (solar panels). The net metering program allows you to “store” the power produced for future use, if the amount generated is more than you need at that time. Excess generation at the end of each bill period is carried over to the next bill period as a KWH credit. Per state law, net metering reserve credits expire on March 31 of each year and any excess generation accumulated is zeroed out. Customers who own solar generators with a capacity of 100 kilowatts or less are eligible to participate in our net metering program.
 
Steps to take if you decide to install a solar net metering project:

  1. Read the Rules for Customer Interconnection of Electric Generating Facilities (Net Metering) to become familiar with Franklin PUD requirements for your system. Customer is responsible for meeting all applicable state and federal codes and standards, including obtaining an approved Washington State L&I electric inspection.
  2. Use the Customer Checklist for Utility Interconnection as a guide.
  3. Complete the Application for Net Metering Interconnection and Net Metering Interconnection Agreement. with assistance from Installer. Customer must submit signed documents and supporting documents to netmetering@franklinpud.com.
  4. Franklin PUD will review application, schedule a call with the customer to go discuss any questions, invoice the non-refundable processing fee and issue Contingent Approval if the application is complete.
  5. Upon notice of Contingent Approval customer has six months to complete the project and pay any fees.
  6. Franklin PUD Field Engineer with call to schedule appointment for installation of a bi-directional net meter on the main electric service and a production meter (if requested) on the solar system and complete the Utility Certification and Witness Testing to allow for Interconnection of your system.

If you have any questions about this process please contact our Engineering Department at 509-542-5913 or e-mail us at netmetering@franklinpud.com.

State of Washington Renewable Energy System Incentive Program

As of June 14, 2019, the Renewable Energy System Incentive Program is no longer accepting new applications for this program and will not issue annual payments based on generation output of new installations. To learn more, visit the Washington State University (WSU) Energy Program. Please call our Energy Services Department at 509-546-5967 or 509-412-4148 if you have questions about the state-funded incentive program. 

Please note that the customer has the option to request and pay for a production meter installed to measure all generation output. 

Reading Your Net Meter Bill

Excess generation at the end of each bill period is carried over to the next bill period as a KWH credit. Per state law, net metering reserve credits expire on March 31 of each year and any excess generation accumulated is zeroed out. Franklin PUD has a handy How To Read My Net Meter Bill document to help you understand how Net Meter billing works.

For your convenience here is a packet of all related Interconnection documents.