ComEd Net Metering Changes 2025— What You Need to Know
ComEd's net metering policy changed on January 1, 2025. New solar customers now receive supply-only credits instead of full retail rate credits. Learn how this affects your solar investment and what strategies maximize your savings.
Critical Change: Supply-Only Credits Starting January 1, 2025
New ComEd solar customers receive approximately 6¢/kWh for excess solar production instead of the previous full retail rate of ~13¢/kWh. This represents a 46% reduction in credit value.
Good News: The new Illinois Smart Inverter rebate ($300/kW) helps offset this change with upfront savings of $2,000-4,000 for typical residential systems.
Before vs After 2025 Net Metering Changes
Understanding the specific changes helps you make informed decisions about solar system sizing and battery storage.
| Aspect | Before 2025 | After 2025 | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Rate | Full retail rate (~13¢/kWh) | Supply-only rate (~6¢/kWh) | 46% reduction in credit value |
| Monthly Bill Credits | 1:1 credit for excess production | ~0.5:1 credit for excess production | Reduced bill offset capability |
| System Payback | 5-7 years typical | 7-9 years typical | 2-3 year increase in payback |
| Smart Inverter Rebate | Not available | $300/kW upfront rebate | Helps offset reduced credits |
| Battery Storage Value | Moderate benefit | High benefit + $300/kWh rebate | Increased storage incentive |
Real-World Example: 8.5 kW System Impact
See how the 2025 changes affect a typical Chicago home solar installation.
Full retail rate net metering
Supply-only credits + Smart Inverter rebate
Optimization Strategies for 2025 Net Metering
Maximize your solar investment with these strategies designed for the new net metering structure.
Optimize system size to minimize excess production sent to grid
Store excess solar energy for use during peak rate periods
Shift energy usage to daylight hours when solar is producing
Solar systems installed before January 1, 2025 keep their original net metering terms
Grandfathered Benefits
Important Notes
• Grandfathered status lasts for the life of the system (typically 25+ years)
• Benefits transfer to new property owners
• System expansions may trigger new net metering terms
• Battery additions don't affect existing net metering
Key Dates & Timeline
Understanding the timeline helps you plan your solar investment strategy.
New Net Metering Rules
Supply-only credits begin for new customers
Smart Inverter Rebate
$300/kW rebate program launches
Legacy Protection
Pre-2025 systems keep original terms
Official Resources
Links to official sources for net metering policy details and updates.
ComEd Net Metering
Official utility net metering information
Illinois Commerce Commission
Regulatory oversight and policy details
Citizens Utility Board
Consumer advocacy and policy analysis
Illinois Shines Program
State solar incentive program updates
Navigate 2025 Changes with Expert Guidance
Our team stays current with all policy changes and will design your system to maximize savings under the new net metering rules.
Updated January 2025 • Based on ComEd tariff schedules • Smart Inverter rebate included in all quotes