Why Spring is the Perfect Time to go Solar
At Blossom Solar we recommend that you install your solar system by April 1st, or as close to it as possible in order to maximize your annual net metering potential.
Net metering in Washington state runs on an annual calendar starting on April 1st and ending on March 31st. Net Metering is a WA state law that ensures a specific agreement between a solar power producer and the Utility serving the home:
Every unit of energy (kWh) that is produced and fed back to the utility is to be credited back onto the account when needed.
In Western Washington solar systems produce more power during the spring and summer; a time where the average homeowner uses the least amount of power. This differential allows homeowners to build big banks of solar credits with their utility in preparation for fall and winter. As sun exposure declines during fall and winter months so does solar production.
During this section of the net metering calendar, the Washington solar owner uses more power than their solar produces and relies on the spring/summer solar credits to make up the difference. Having a properly sized solar system is key to striking an energy “balance” to cover the solar owner during the whole net metering cycle.
Hence, Blossom’s recommendation to install your system as close as possible to the beginning of this cycle. Spring installations allow solar owners to see the full potential of the solar system functionally within the net metering program.
Now, if you do not get your installation in time to build a big bank of credits, not to worry, you just won't see the benefit during your first net metering cycle.