Illinois Solar Net Metering: How Bill Credits Work

Net metering determines how eligible solar electricity sent to the grid is credited. Compare export credits with the electricity you still purchase and the charges remaining on your utility bill.

Check which Illinois rules apply

For ComEd, Ameren, and MidAmerican customers, systems installed after January 1, 2025 generally use supply-only net metering. Credits do not erase every delivery charge on electricity taken from the grid. Older systems and municipal or cooperative utilities may follow different rules. Confirm your system's enrollment, rate, and utility terms using the Illinois Shines consumer guidance and your utility.

Keep three parts of the proposal separate

• Generation: the electricity the proposed system is expected to produce.
• Bill impact: how that production and applicable credits affect your utility charges.
• Project cost: equipment, installation, financing, and any incentives for which the project qualifies.

A production estimate is not a guaranteed dollar saving. Ask to see the electricity rate, export-credit assumptions, remaining charges, and financing terms used in the calculation.

Questions to ask before signing a solar contract

• Who owns the equipment?
• Who receives any incentive payment?
• What happens if production differs from the estimate?
• Which costs remain on the utility bill?
• What roof work is needed before installation?

Get the answers and assumptions in writing.

Request a bill walkthrough

Ask the provider to show how its proposal relates to an example utility bill for your applicable tariff. Identify what is purchased from the grid, how eligible exports are credited, and which charges remain.

Keep estimated solar production separate from the credit rate used to value it. If the proposal includes a loan, lease, or other recurring payment, review that obligation alongside the estimated utility bill rather than looking at either figure alone.

Request a dated copy of the assumptions and confirm current terms with your utility. That gives you a reference if the proposal or enrollment details change.

Start with your roof and electricity use

Gather recent utility bills and any information about your roof's age and condition. UV Exteriors can help you explore the roof and solar portions of a project through our solar service page. For seasonal considerations, read solar performance in winter, or contact our team.