Some solar homeowners in Toronto see electricity bills that come out negative. Here is how that happens and what it does and does not mean.
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A negative bill happens when a net-metered solar system sends more power to the grid than the home takes from it during the billing period. The extra generation becomes a credit, so the energy portion of the bill drops below zero and the surplus carries forward to later months.
That is most common in spring and summer, when long days produce more than the household uses.
A negative energy balance does not erase every charge. Fixed delivery and service charges still apply, so the practical effect is a very small bill rather than free electricity. The credits are most valuable when they carry forward to cover the darker months.
How much you can build up depends on system size, roof orientation and your usage. Our net metering guide covers how credits are applied, including how long they carry forward.
It depends on design. A system sized for your actual usage, with room for growth such as an electric vehicle, gives you the best chance. Request a proposal and we will show the monthly production and credit picture for your roof.