Duke Energy Net‑Metering Guide: Your Panels Are Up, Lets Get You Paid

Your Panels Got Installed, Now What? 

It's the day you've been waiting for. Your new solar array passed its final inspection, the contractors are gone, and the electric inspector gave you the thumbs‑up. You're staring at your roof like a proud parent-wondering when those shimmering panels will start shrinking your Duke Energy bill. The last step is getting approved for net‑metering, which lets Duke track your surplus power and credit you for it.

Check your email or duke account for your personal link to Duke’s Net Metering Page and— 

1. Check your system size and tier

Duke Energy divides systems into tiers:

• Tier 1 (≤ 10 kW AC) - no application fee and no liability insurance required.
• Tier 2 (> 10 kW AC) - a $240 application fee and proof of $1 million liability insurance. This tier covers most larger residential and small commercial systems.

If your system is huge (over 100 kW), Duke may require additional studies and fees. Most homeowners fall into Tier 1.

2. Gather your documents

Before starting Duke's application, collect:

• Duke account information - the name and number on your electric bill.
• Final inspection report - proof that your county or city signed off on electrical, structural and fire codes.
• Electrical permit - the permit number used for your solar install.
• One‑line diagram & equipment specs - a diagram showing your panels, inverter, disconnect and meter. Make sure your inverter is UL‑1741 listed.
• Liability insurance - only for systems larger than 10 kW AC.

3. Complete the net‑metering application and interconnection agreement

Go to Duke Energy's renewable generation portal and start a new interconnection application. You'll enter your contact info, system capacity, equipment details and contractor information. Duke's form also includes the interconnection agreement-this legal document says you'll follow safety standards and allow Duke to disconnect your array if needed.

Trying to find the application portal? Click Here to Open Duke’s Interconnection Portal

Upload your permit, inspection paperwork, one‑line diagram and proof of insurance. If you're in Tier 2, you'll pay the $240 application fee online. Make sure the name on your application matches your Duke account; mismatches slow down approval.

4. Wait for Duke to review

Duke Energy reviews your application and documents. They may request clarifications or corrections. Be patient-your application is one of many on someone's desk. Use this time to set up your monitoring app or daydream about low electric bills.

5. System inspection and bi‑directional meter

Once your paperwork is accepted, Duke schedules an inspection. Technicians verify that your system matches the submitted plans and includes a safe, accessible disconnect. After passing inspection, Duke replaces your standard meter with a bi‑directional meter that measures both power drawn from the grid and excess power you send back.

Do not turn on your solar system until Duke installs the new meter and grants "permission to operate." Running solar through a standard meter can cause billing errors.

6. Understanding your credits

Duke Energy uses net billing. Surplus power you export during the month earns a credit at the full retail rate, and those credits roll over to the next month. At the end of your 12‑month billing period, any remaining credit is paid out at Duke's wholesale rate (around two cents per kWh). There's also a minimum monthly bill (about $30) for net‑metered customers-even if your credits exceed your usage. Keep that in mind when estimating savings.

Final thoughts

Net‑metering paperwork isn't exciting, but it's your gateway to lower electric bills. Gather your documents, fill out Duke's application, then let the utility handle the rest. In a few weeks you'll see your bi‑directional meter tick up on the "received" side as your roof generates more than you use.

Share this guide with friends in Duke territory who are about to go solar. The sooner they tackle net‑metering, the sooner they'll enjoy the sun powering their lives.