Florida's investor-owned utilities (FPL, Duke Energy, TECO) offer 1:1 retail-rate net metering — every kWh you export earns a credit at the full retail rate. OUC changed its policy in July 2025, reducing export credits to ~$0.046/kWh for new customers. JEA replaced net metering with a Distributed Generation policy, compensating exports at the fuel rate (~$0.0325/kWh). Installing under current rules locks in your rate for 10–20 years where 1:1 net metering still applies.
Net Metering Rules by Florida Utility
Net metering rules vary by utility. Here's how each major Florida utility handles solar exports in 2026:
| Utility | Net Metering Type | Export Rate | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| FPL | 1:1 retail rate | $0.136/kWh | Credits roll over monthly; forfeited at annual true-up |
| Duke Energy Florida | 1:1 retail rate | $0.16/kWh | Online portal; 10–20 day approval |
| TECO | 1:1 retail rate | $0.156/kWh | Fastest interconnection (15–20 days) |
| OUC | Reduced (TruNet Solar) | $0.046/kWh (new) | New customers after July 2025 get reduced export rate |
| JEA | Distributed Generation (DG) | $0.0325/kWh (fuel rate) | Exports compensated at fuel rate, not retail; self-consumption is key |
How 1:1 Net Metering Works
With 1:1 net metering, your meter spins backward when your solar system produces more than your home uses. Each excess kWh exported earns a credit at the full retail rate. These credits roll over month-to-month, offsetting future bills. At the annual true-up, any remaining credits are typically forfeited — so size your system to match your annual usage, not exceed it.
The OUC Exception: TruNet Solar
OUC is the first major Florida utility to move away from 1:1 net metering. New customers after July 2025 receive approximately $0.046/kWh for exported solar — less than half the retail rate. This extends payback periods from 9–12 years to 14–18 years. Existing customers and those who applied before the deadline retain the full retail rate until 2045.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is net metering in Florida?
Net metering lets you send excess solar energy to the grid and receive credits on your electric bill. Florida's investor-owned utilities (FPL, Duke, TECO) offer 1:1 retail-rate net metering, meaning each kWh exported earns a credit at the full retail rate.
Is net metering going away in Florida?
It's under pressure. OUC already reduced export credits for new customers in July 2025. Legislative proposals (HB 741) have attempted to reduce net metering for IOUs. Installing now locks in current terms for 10–20 years.
What happens to unused solar credits at year-end?
It depends on your utility. FPL forfeits remaining credits at the annual true-up. Duke and TECO also do annual true-ups. Check your utility's specific policy.
Does net metering apply to battery storage?
No. Net metering applies to energy exported to the grid. A battery stores energy on-site for later use. With OUC's TruNet Solar, taking the battery rebate means forfeiting the full retail export rate.
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