Solar Frequently Asked Questions

Net metering gives you full retail credit for excess energy your solar array produces and sends back to the utility. However, this benefit is changing for Illinois residents effective December 31, 2024. If your utility doesn’t offer net metering, they may provide a lower avoided cost payment instead. Understanding your utility’s policy is crucial for evaluating the financial impact of your solar project.

A grid-tied system uses solar-generated power first, with any excess flowing back to the utility grid. The utility compensates you for this excess through net metering or avoided cost payments. Contact Arrow Solar for details on your local utility’s policy.

An off-grid system is not connected to the power grid. Solar panels charge a battery, and the property draws power from the battery. The size of the battery bank determines how frequently it needs to be recharged by the solar array to ensure an uninterrupted power supply.