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Net Metering in West Virginia Is Changing — Why Early 2026 Is The Time To Go Solar
What Is Net Metering in West Virginia?
Net metering is one of the most important incentives for homeowners considering solar in West Virginia.
What Is Net Metering For Solar Customers?
Simply put, net metering allows your solar system to send excess electricity back to the grid. When that happens, your utility company credits your account for the power you produce but don’t use right away.
Under current rules, many West Virginia customers receive 1:1 net metering, meaning:
- One kilowatt-hour sent to the grid = one kilowatt-hour credited on your bill
- Your solar power offsets electricity at the full retail rate
For homeowners, this is a major reason solar makes financial sense.
What’s Changing With Net Metering for AEP Customers?
Utilities across the country are adjusting how net metering works, and West Virginia is no exception.
- Mon Power / Potomac Edison customers saw changes take effect previously
- AEP customers are next, with updated net-metering structures taking effect in 2026
To lock in current 1:1 net metering benefits, AEP customers must apply and receive approval before the deadline.
When Is The Deadline To Lock In Net Metering Rates For AEP Customers?
Key Deadline to Know
To qualify under existing net metering rules:
- Your interconnection application must be filed and approved
- This must happen before March 1, 2026
After that point, new solar customers may receive reduced credit values for excess energy sent to the grid — lowering long-term savings.
Why 1:1 Net Metering Matters So Much
Not all net metering is created equal.
With 1:1 net metering, your solar system:
- Offsets your utility bill dollar-for-dollar
- Produces the fastest payback timeline
- Maximizes lifetime system savings
When utilities reduce net-metering credits, solar still works — but it takes longer to reach breakeven and overall savings decline.
That’s why many homeowners choose to act before net-metering rules change.
What This Means for West Virginia Homeowners
If you’re served by AEP or another West Virginia utility, timing matters more than ever.
Going solar before net metering changes allows you to:
- Lock in higher credit values
- Protect yourself from future utility rate increases
- Increase the return on your solar investment
Once approved, customers are typically grandfathered into the net-metering program that existed at the time of approval.
Why Now Is the Smart Window for Solar
Between:
- Net metering changes coming in 2026
- Rising electric rates
- Federal incentives that are also expiring
This year represents a rare overlap of benefits for homeowners considering solar.
Waiting could mean:
- Lower net-metering credits
- Reduced lifetime savings
- Fewer financial advantages overall
Talk to a Local West Virginia Solar Expert
At Revolt Energy, we help homeowners:
- Understand how net metering works with their specific utility
- Navigate application and approval timelines
- Design systems sized to maximize net-metering benefits
If you’re even thinking about solar, now is the time to explore your options — before the rules change.
Schedule a free solar consultation with Revolt Energy today
