Solar panel energy meter

What is a solar panel meter?

A solar panel meter, also known as a solar meter, is a device that measures the amount of solar energy produced by solar panels. It is typically installed in homes or businesses with solar electric systems. The solar meter records the amount of electricity generated by the solar panels and the amount of electricity that is sent back to the grid.

Why do I need a solar panel meter?

Being able to read your solar panel meter is vital for monitoring the performance of your solar electric system. It allows you to track the amount of power generated by your solar panels, the amount of excess power that is sent back to the grid, and your electricity consumption.

What types of meter do solar panels use?

Solar panels typically use a variety of electric meters depending on the specific needs and requirements of the solar system. Common types of meters used with solar panels include net, smart, bi-directional, accumulation, and consumption meters. What are the different types of solar meters?

How does a solar meter work?

The meter typically displays your solar production in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and the excess power that your system sends back to the utility grid. To calculate your solar system’s performance, you can compare your solar panel meter reading to your electricity consumption.

Why do solar panels need a directional meter?

When solar panels generate more electricity than consumed, the excess energy is returned to the grid. In contrast, energy is drawn from the grid during higher consumption. Bi-directional meters are crucial in accurately measuring the net energy exchange and facilitating net metering for solar system owners.

Do you need a smart meter for solar net metering?

Smart meters aren't only useful for solar net metering. Sending electricity back to the grid from a stand alone battery that's part of a virtual power plant or used for rate arbitrage would also require a two-way smart meter. Two-way meters are already common. They make up nearly 75% of all residential electric meters in the United States.