Virtual Net Energy Metering_COVEROther states can now more easily examine one way California is making solar energy more accessible for residents, for example in multi-tenant buildings.

In partnership with CalSEIA (California Solar Energy Industry Association) and the Center for Sustainable Energy, IREC co-authored the Virtual Net Metering Policy Background and Tariff Summary report (June 2015), which provides a comprehensive overview of California’s multi-tenant policies and an explanation of similar shared solar programs throughout the country.

The report was published as part of the Virtual Net Metering Market Development Plan, one of 15 projects that make up the U.S. Department of Energy’s SunShot Solar Market Pathways Program, which aims to bolster solar adoption throughout the United States.

Virtual Net Metering (VNEM) expands consumer options for renewable energy by removing significant hurdles commonly associated with traditional NEM. For instance, it can allow residents in a multi-tenant building to participate in a common system on the roof of their building, sharing the electricity produced by the single solar electric system. Traditional NEM would have one physically installed solar system connected to each utility account.

Download the report.