If you recently installed solar or want to understand billing, you’re in the right place!
Here’s a walkthrough of a recent power bill from our Hammonds Plains headquarters to show how net metering works with solar energy. Solar Ascent’s headquarters has an 11kW solar array and is fully electrically heated. By producing solar energy, we’ve greatly reduced our electrical consumption. Let’s show you how.
Page 1: What Changes on Your NS Power Bill After Going Solar?
At the top of Page 1A of your Nova Scotia Power bill, you’ll notice some key changes after adopting solar and enabling net metering. Your electrical meter now counts energy as it flows in both directions—both the power you pull from the grid and the excess energy your system pushes back. Pretty cool, right?
In this example, the solar energy produced fully offset the building’s consumption for the billing period. Plus, thanks to our previously accumulated credit bank, there were no usage charges for this period.
Page 1A of Nova Scotia Power Bill
Page 1: Breaking Down the Charges and Credits
On Page 1B, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of charges and credits. Solar energy offsets all consumption, but a fixed grid connection fee still applies. We’re happy to pay this fee because the grid lets us send excess energy back when unused.
To the right, historical usage is shown. Blank kWh periods mean solar generation or banked credits fully offset consumption. Seeing these blanks and knowing we’re producing clean energy while saving money is rewarding 🙂
Page 1B of Nova Scotia Power Bill
Checking Your Solar Credit Bank
When we look at Page 2, it shows your solar credit bank. This is excess energy (in kWh) sent to the grid but not yet used. These credits can offset future bills, helping cover annual energy consumption fully.
You’ll need to download this online to view the page. Here, the credit bank shows 3,636 kWh carried over, ensuring coverage for future use, even in low-production months like winter.
Page 2 of Nova Scotia Power Bill
Understanding Your New Rate Codes on your NS Power Bill
Another notable change on the bill is the introduction of new rate codes on page 1A. These codes track consumption (O2BC2) and generation/export (O2BG2). This dual-tracking system ensures that all energy flowing to and from the grid is accurately accounted for.
Why Net Metering Makes Sense in Nova Scotia
All in all, the transition to solar is straightforward, thanks to Nova Scotia’s net metering program. It’s an effective way to reduce energy costs, and the current rebates and financing options make solar adoption both affordable and attainable. At our headquarters, the 11kW solar array has been a game-changer, reducing our carbon footprint and saving money at the same time.
If you want to eliminate usage charges on your next power bill, drop us a line! We’d love to help you navigate the solar adoption process and take advantage of the incredible benefits of net metering in Nova Scotia.
Here’s additional information on reading your Nova Scotia Power bill.
Receive Your Custom Solar Proposal
Have questions about going solar? We’d be happy to talk to you —Solar Ascent is here to help Halifax homeowners shine brighter! 🌞
At Solar Ascent, we make solar simple.
Complete this form, and we’ll get back to you with a custom solar proposal for your home or business within two business days.
