January 10, 2023

NEM 3.0: What You Need to Know Before Time Runs Out

Updated: 5/13/2025

If you've been thinking about going solar, you need to know about a major change coming your way. Let's talk about what's happening and why you might want to act quickly.

What's This NEM Thing All About?

Net Energy Metering (NEM) might sound technical, but it's pretty simple. The policy determines how much money you get back when your solar panels produce more electricity than you're using. Thousands of California homeowners and businesses have benefited from this program, but things are about to change dramatically.

How Your Solar Panels and the Grid Work Together

Picture this: It's a sunny afternoon, your solar panels are working overtime, but you're not home using much electricity. What happens to all that extra power? It flows back to the grid, and your utility company has paid you nicely. This happens a lot because:

  • Your solar panels produce the most electricity during midday
  • Most of us use less energy during those peak sun hours
  • You use more electricity in the mornings and evenings when you're home

The Big Change: Why NEM 3.0 Matters to Your Wallet

Here's the situation: The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has approved a new version of this program called NEM 3.0, and frankly, it's not great news for solar customers.

Let's Compare the Old and New Deal

In other words, the utility companies will be buying your excess solar power at a steep discount while charging you full price for the electricity you need. Not exactly a fair trade anymore, right?

Are You Affected by This Change?

If you're a customer of one of these utility companies, these changes will impact you:

If you have a municipal utility like LADWP, PWP, or BWP, you can breathe easy—this doesn't affect you (at least not yet).

The Clock Is Ticking: April 13th Deadline

Want to lock in better rates before NEM 3.0 kicks in? Here's what you need to know:

You don't need to have solar installed by April 13th, but you DO need to have your paperwork submitted by then. Here's the process:

  1. Submit your complete Interconnection Application by April 13, 2023
  2. If you're a business owner, you'll need to include your site plan and single-line diagram
  3. Good news: You'll have three whole years to install your system after your application is approved

Miss this deadline, and you'll be stuck with the new, less favorable NEM 3.0 rates. That could mean thousands of dollars difference over the life of your solar system!

How Will This Affect You Specifically?

Everyone's energy usage is different. Maybe you work from home and use electricity all day. Maybe your business operates mainly during daylight hours. Your specific situation will determine exactly how much NEM 3.0 will impact your solar savings.

That's why getting a personalized solar evaluation is more important now than ever before. A good solar provider can analyze your electricity usage patterns and show you exactly what these changes mean for your unique situation.

Your Secret Weapon: Battery Storage

Here's a smart strategy to consider: adding battery storage to your solar system. Why does this help under NEM 3.0?

  • Instead of sending your excess electricity to the grid for pennies on the dollar, you can store it
  • When you need power later (like in the evening), use your stored energy instead of buying from the grid
  • You'll use more of the electricity you generate, getting full value from every kilowatt-hour
  • It's like having your own personal power plant that works day and night!

Many homeowners are finding that batteries make even more financial sense under NEM 3.0 than they did before.

Why Green Convergence Is Your Best Partner for NEM 3.0

With the April 13th deadline approaching fast, choosing the right solar partner is more critical than ever. Here's why Green Convergence stands out as your best option for navigating these important changes:

  • Proven Experience: We've successfully guided thousands of California homeowners and businesses through previous NEM transitions
  • Regulatory Expertise: Our dedicated team constantly monitors policy changes to protect your investment and maximize your savings
  • Seamless Process: We handle all complex paperwork and utility applications for you, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks
  • Superior System Design: Our installations are engineered for maximum energy production and decades of reliable performance
  • Complete Care: From your first consultation through installation and beyond, we provide comprehensive support at every step

Your Action Plan Before April 13th:

  1. Contact Green Convergence today for your free, no-obligation consultation
  2. Receive a customized proposal showing exactly how NEM 3.0 will affect your specific situation
  3. Explore whether adding battery storage could boost your savings under the new rules
  4. Let our team handle your application before the crucial April 13th deadline
  5. Relax knowing you've made the smart choice for your energy future

Remember, meeting this deadline doesn't mean rushing your installation decision—you'll have plenty of time for that. What matters now is getting your paperwork submitted properly and on time, something Green Convergence specializes in handling efficiently.

Ready to secure better rates before they disappear? Call Green Convergence today or visit our website to schedule your free consultation. The sooner you connect with our team, the more thoroughly we can prepare your application and lock in the most advantageous terms for your home or business.

Don't let this opportunity slip away—partner with Green Convergence now and thank yourself for years to come!

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