Net metering is a billing mechanism whereby customers earn credit for the power their system produces that is sent to the grid for others to utilize. Historically, ComEd, Ameren and MidAmerican have been required to provide customer bill credits for excess energy produced by their residential or small commercial solar system at the full retail rate.
Under the state’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (“CEJA”), net metering offerings to new customers will change to “supply-only” starting January 1, 2025. This means that for residential and small commercial customers interconnecting renewable energy systems to the grid in ComEd (northern Illinois), Ameren (mid and southern Illinois), or MidAmerican (northwestern Illinois) territories after December 31, 2024, full retail rate net metering will no longer be available. In simplest terms, you will be credited for excess electricity that your solar project sends to the grid at your electricity supply rate. (Your electricity supply charge, in $/kWh, is shown on your electric bill). For ComEd and Ameren, all required documentation must be received by no later than 5 p.m. CPT on December 31, 2024 to be eligible for full retail rate net metering. (Please note: this project submission deadline was updated to December 31, from December 13). For MidAmerican the net metering application must be submitted before January 1, 2025.
The Agency has created a Frequently Asked Questions (“FAQs”) document to provide information to consumers about the changes. These FAQs can be found in the linked document as well as on the Program’s website Consumer FAQs page. The Illinois Shines program is dedicated to keeping participants abreast of the changes being worked on by the utilities.
Thank you!
Illinois Shines Program
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