Understanding Your After-Solar Costs
Switching to solar energy is an excellent way to reduce reliance on traditional power sources and lower electricity bills. However, many homeowners are surprised when they continue to receive a NV Energy bill even after installing a solar system. This is commonly referred to as an “after-solar bill.” Understanding the reasons behind this remaining balance can help you manage your expectations and plan accordingly. Here are the three primary reasons you may still have a bill from NV Energy after going solar:
1. Basic Service Fee
Regardless of whether you have solar panels, every NV Energy customer is required to pay a Basic Service Fee. This fee covers maintaining the electrical grid, ensuring reliable service, and supporting routine infrastructure upkeep. Currently, the Basic Service Fee is $18.50 plus applicable taxes, a non-negotiable charge that solar customers must pay. Notably, net metering credits cannot be used to offset this fee, meaning that even if your solar system produces enough energy to cover your electricity usage, you will still see this charge each month.
2. Increased Energy Usage After Solar Installation
When your solar system was installed, its size was determined based on your historical energy consumption. The system was designed to generate enough electricity to offset the amount of energy you were using at that time. However, if your energy usage has increased since installation, your solar system may no longer be able to cover all your electricity needs. Several common factors can contribute to increased energy usage, including:
- Lowering your AC temperature: Running your air conditioning at a lower temperature increases energy consumption, especially during peak summer months.
- Adding new appliances or amenities: Installing a pool, spa, or additional electronic devices can significantly raise your energy demand.
- Purchasing an Electric Vehicle (EV): Charging an EV at home requires substantial electricity, which can quickly deplete your net metering credits.
3. Moving Into a New Home and System Sizing
If you have recently moved into a new home with a solar system, your solar array was likely sized based on an estimate rather than actual historical energy usage. NV Energy determines a new home’s recommended solar system size based on its square footage and estimated energy needs, as no past usage data is available. However, this estimate may not accurately reflect your energy habits.
Like in the previous scenario, if you set your AC lower than expected, install energy-intensive features like a pool or spa, or purchase an EV that requires regular charging, your energy consumption may exceed what your solar system was initially designed to handle. As a result, you could use up your net metering credits faster than anticipated, leading to higher electricity bills.
Assessing your energy usage after moving in and determining whether your solar system needs to be expanded to meet your needs is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.
How to Reduce Your After-Solar Bill
If you are experiencing higher-than-expected NV Energy bills after going solar, consider taking the following steps:
- Monitor your energy usage: Use NV Energy’s online tools or your solar monitoring system to track your consumption and identify areas for reduction.
- Optimize your energy efficiency: Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, use smart thermostats, and implement energy-saving habits to reduce demand.
- Expand your solar system: If your energy needs have increased significantly, consult a solar provider about adding more panels to offset additional usage.
Final Thoughts
While solar energy can significantly reduce your dependence on NV Energy, it does not necessarily eliminate your electricity bill. Understanding the reasons behind your after-solar bill—including service fees, increased usage, and new home system sizing—can help you make informed decisions about your energy consumption. By staying proactive and monitoring your energy usage, you can maximize the benefits of your solar system and keep your electricity costs as low as possible.
If you would like to discuss your options to expand your system, please visit www.robcoelectriclv.com/quote and request a free, no-obligation quote.
