What the meter reading shows
The meter on a residential solar PV system records the amount of electricity generated by the panels, the portion you consume on‑site, and the surplus exported to the grid. It provides a real‑time snapshot of net energy flow, allowing you to see how much solar power offsets your usage and how much is fed back to your utility.
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Types of meters used
Most installations employ a bi‑directional (export) meter that can measure flow in both directions. Some systems also have a separate generation meter that tracks total kilowatt‑hours (kWh) produced regardless of consumption.
How readings are calculated
When your panels generate electricity, the meter adds kWh to the generation total. If the home's demand exceeds generation, the meter subtracts kWh as you draw from the grid. Excess generation causes the meter to record a negative net usage, indicating export.
Why the reading matters
Accurate meter data determines billing under net‑metering or feed‑in‑tariff arrangements, influencing your electricity bill and any payments you receive for exported power. It also helps you assess system performance and identify issues such as shading or inverter faults.
Interpreting common figures
- Total generation: Cumulative kWh produced since installation.
- Net consumption: kWh used by the household after accounting for solar offset.
- Export total: kWh sent to the grid, often shown as a negative balance.
Typical meter display layout
| Display | Meaning | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Generation (kWh) | Total solar output | Performance monitoring |
| Import (kWh) | Energy drawn from grid | Billable consumption |
| Export (kWh) | Energy sent to grid | Potential credits |