Net metering lets you send excess solar electricity back to the grid in exchange for bill credits. In provinces with 1:1 net metering (Ontario, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia), the grid acts as a free battery. But rules vary significantly, and BC’s 2026 rate changes are shifting the economics. This guide tracks net metering rules across every province.
How Net Metering Works
The basics of selling solar power back to the grid
| Province | Credit Rate | Max System Size | Credit Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 1:1 retail rate | 500 kW | 12 months |
| Saskatchewan | 1:1 retail rate | 100 kW | Annual payout |
| Nova Scotia | 1:1 retail rate | 100 kW | 12 months |
| Alberta | Micro-generation rate | 5 MW | Monthly |
| British Columbia | ~10¢/kWh (2026) | 100 kW | Annual payout |
| Quebec | Self-generation rate | 50 kW | Annual |
| Manitoba | 1:1 retail rate | 200 kW | 12 months |
Provincial Net Metering News
Recent changes that affect your solar economics
BC Hydro Net Metering Overhaul
Rate Schedule 2289 reduces export compensation to ~10¢/kWh starting July 2026. This changes the solar ROI calculation for BC homeowners significantly. Read Full Story →
BC Solar Co-ops
Group purchasing power for Metro Vancouver homeowners through solar cooperative structures under new BCUC rules. Read Full Story →
Nova Scotia Community Solar Gardens
Subscribe to solar power without installing panels on your own roof – Nova Scotia’s new community solar program expands access. Read Full Story →
Net Metering FAQ
Common questions about selling solar back to the grid
What is net metering?
Net metering is a billing arrangement where your utility credits you for excess solar electricity you send to the grid. Your meter effectively “runs backward” when you’re producing more than you use. Credits offset electricity you draw at night or on cloudy days. Read Full Answer →
Do I need a battery if I have net metering?
In most cases, no. With 1:1 net metering, the grid acts as a free, unlimited battery. Batteries make sense if you have time-of-use rates (like Ontario’s ULO), want backup power, or live in a province where export credits are below retail rate.
What happens to unused credits?
Most provinces roll credits forward month-to-month. At the annual reset (usually April), some provinces pay out remaining credits (often at a lower wholesale rate), while others simply zero the balance. Check your province’s specific terms.
Can my utility deny net metering?
Utilities cannot deny net metering for systems within the size limit. However, if the local grid infrastructure can’t handle your system’s output, they may require an engineering study or upgrades (at your cost). This is rare for residential systems under 10 kW.
Solar resources by province
Incentives, installers, and costs specific to your region
