User:Jotaele09/sandbox

User:Jotaele09/sandbox

virtual net metering
Virtual net metering is a variation of conventional net energy metering (NEM), but functions in a distinct and unique manner. This type of net energy metering is sometimes called virtual meter aggregation, or simply virtual metering (VM). As with other net energy metering, customers who produce electricity from their own facilities receive credit from a utility for that electricity. The generation facilities may consist of solar panels, wind turbines, or micro-hydro systems, although at present it is limited primarily to photovoltaic (PV) solar generation. In conventional net energy metering, the generation site is adjacent to the point of use (as with “rooftop solar panels” on a residence or a commercial building). Conventional net metering also utilizes a single, bi-directional meter which produces a “net” result at the end of each billing period. In virtual net metering, by contrast, the point of generation can be any distance from the point (or points) of use, and a separate meter is installed at each location. At the end of each billing period, the data from all meters is “aggregated”, either electronically or manually, through a “combination of readings and billing”. The separate metering allows one generating facility to provide electricity to multiple locations, and, in turn, yields a “net” credit or charge for the customer-generator. Although it has been adopted in various states, the specific rules vary from state to state.