Net Metering FAQs

Yes. Having an existing GIOA can ease the process of applying for a program in the future. It also informs Consumers Energy of the equipment on site for safety.

Currently electronic payments are unavailable for applications. All application payments should be sent via US mail to:

Consumers Energy
Interconnection Coordinator
Rm P14-206
1945 West Parnall Road
Jackson, MI 49201

A $25 payment is required to participate. The first step is to have the new account holder transfer service with Consumers Energy customer service at 1 (800) 477-5050. Once the account has been transferred, the Interconnection team will provide the new account holder with a GIOA to sign. If a GIOA has not been issued within 10 business days of the move in, please contact net.metering@cmsenergy.com

The average application process can take up to 45 business days. Project timeline can increase if construction additions or system modifications have taken place during the process.

An application is reviewed on a first come, first served basis, once:

1. A completed application that includes a One Line and Site Plan is submitted.
   
   
2. The associated application payment has been received and recorded.

There are many factors that can increase or decrease the performance of a system. Some factors may include: array type, orientation, azimuth, etc.

For program consideration, Consumers Energy assumes a design that includes:

• Rooftop Orientation
• Fixed Array Type
• South Facing

The formula below is used to obtain an estimate

Estimated Output = Total Generator Nameplate DC * (0.1274 * 8,760)

If you have a design that differs from what was mentioned above, a helpful tool to assist with system production can be found at https://pvwatts.nrel.gov/

You will receive an email from donotreply@powerclerk.com or a letter in the mail that reads… “Congratulations! You are now authorized to turn your generation system on and operate your system in parallel with the utility.” Once that has been received, you will be able to initiate your system.

The values between the two do not match because they are not measuring like for like. The inverter reports provide the total production that the system has produced over the entire month. Those totals do not account for the usage that is consumed by the home where a Net Metering generator is designed to provide energy for the home first. The generation spreadsheet reflects only the amount of generation remaining after energy is consumed at the home.

The smart meter is a permissible meter for the Net Metering program. Customers that participate in a smart meter opt out program or elect a Time of Use Rate will need to have a meter exchange for Net Metering eligibility.

A GIOA can be signed electronically via DocuSign once an agreement has been administered by the Interconnection Team. The DocuSign link is sent to the customer’s email after design approval, system construction, and satisfactory review of a Commissioning Test Report.

This email will come from XXX@docusign.com and be sent directly to the customer’s email without copying any installer that may be working with the customer.

• To ensure a timely process, please ensure the correct customer email address is included on the application.

Generation credits are applied to a customer’s account starting the next billing cycle after the GIOA finalization date.

Once you have been enrolled in the Net Metering program, a monthly spreadsheet will be provided. The monthly spreadsheet displays the meter reads from both the Inflow and Outflow registers that are used for billing the account. Inflow and Outflow information can also be tracked through reads directly at the meter.

Consideration can be granted for program eligibility provided a written statement is submitted by the customer. Along with the written statement, supporting documentation and receipts must be provided to validate undetermined electric usage.