Frequently Asked Questions

Net-metering or net-surplus is the extra energy generated from a PV solar system that is sent back to the grid. For example, if over the course of the year you used 900 kWh from the grid and you sent 1,000 kWh back to the grid, then that means you had a net surplus of 100 kWh.

Call the Building Department for your permit's final inspection at 707-431-3346. The Building Department will notify the Electric Department when the inspection passes. Once all paperwork (Interconnection Agreement, etc.) has been correctly completed and submitted to the Electric Department, we will install a NET-meter. The NET-meter fee is based on the current fiscal year Master Fee Schedule.

Customers should not turn on the system until the Permission to Operate (PTO) letter is provided. This letter will be sent after the building inspection is complete, the interconnection agreement is signed, and the net-meter has been set. At this point when the PTO letter is provided, and not before, the customer can turn on their system. Turning the system on earlier may result in solar production that is not credited to their utility bill. 

The utility prefers all breakers to be behind the main breaker.

Customers electing to be on this account structure currently receive $0.0888 per net surplus kWh, paid-out on an annual basis. This rate may change at any time – Visit healdsburg.gov/electricrates for the most up-to-date information. The compensation rate is the same for all rate codes.

There is a NET-meter fee for all solar installations. This fee may be waived if the project is only for adding onto an existing solar system that is already associated with the NET-meter. The Planning & Building and Fire departments also assess fees for their involvement. Review the current Master Fee Schedule for applicable fees. The 2024-2025 fees are available here.

Any of our rates can become a NET-metered rate. Please see our Rate Eligibility sheet to determine your applicable rate(s). To learn more about specific rates, please see our Rate Schedule at healdsburg.gov/electricrates.

Since the utility has to install and maintain infrastructure to support the customer's peak energy flow (regardless of whether it flows in to the customer or out to the grid) demand is billed irrespective of direction. Because of this, customers on a demand-rate who become NET-metered, will likely not see a decrease in their demand-charge. However, battery systems can be strategically programmed to reduce demand.

No, the City does not have solar or battery installation rebates. Information about energy programs and other solar or battery incentives is available at www.SmartLivingHealdsburg.org.

Healdsburg Electric offers a Green Rate option for 100% renewable electricity. Find out more about electricity sources and renewables, and apply for the Green Rate, at healdsburg.gov/powercontent.