Net metering is the billing framework for crediting solar customers when their panels send electricity to the grid. In North Carolina, Duke Energy’s residential solar rules changed after the NC Utilities Commission’s 2023 net metering order.
The NC Public Staff net metering page explains that Rider NMB and Rider RSC became effective for residential customers in October 2023. It also explains that net exports under the revised riders are credited at an avoided-cost-based net excess energy credit rate, not the old full-retail structure for new customers.
This matters because a solar system can reduce your energy purchases without eliminating every bill charge. Fixed, minimum, and non-bypassable charges may still apply.
When you get quotes, ask which rider the installer modeled and how much production is assumed to be used directly in the home versus exported.
Common questions
- Is net metering still available in North Carolina?
- Duke Energy still has residential solar riders, but the rules changed for new customers. Rider NMB and Rider RSC use avoided-cost-based export credits and other tariff rules described by the NC Public Staff.
- Can net metering credits offset my whole Duke Energy bill?
- Not necessarily. The NC Public Staff explains that net metering credits are limited primarily to kWh charges, and fixed or non-bypassable charges may remain.
- Which rider should I choose?
- Ask your installer to model Rider NMB and Rider RSC for your address, usage, system size, and battery plan. The better option depends on actual load shape and tariff rules.