Meralco Net Metering Guide Philippines: Reading Your Bill (2026)
Your complete guide to understanding your Meralco bill with net metering as a solar owner in 2026.
What is Net Metering?
Net Metering (mandated by RA 9513) allows small-scale renewable energy producers (systems up to 1 MW as of 2026) to receive fair credit for surplus electricity exported to the grid.
How It Works:
- Your bi-directional meter tracks Import Energy (from grid)
- Tracks Export Energy (to grid)
- Net = Import - Export = Your final bill
Your New Meters
1. Bi-Directional Meter
The primary billing meter that tracks:
- Imported Energy: Power drawn from Meralco grid
- Exported Energy: Surplus solar sent to grid
2. REC Meter (Renewable Energy Certificate)
Measures gross generation of your solar PV system — used for national tracking. Does not directly appear on your bill.
Reading Your Meralco Bill (2026)
Key Line Items
| Line Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Import Energy KWh | Total electricity pulled from grid (charged) |
| NM-Export Energy KWh | Surplus solar sent to grid (credited) |
| Excess NM Export Energy | If export > import = credit rolls over |
The Math
Final Bill = (Charges for Import) - (Credits for Export) + Fixed Charges
Example:
- Home consumed: 400 kWh
- Solar generated: 350 kWh
- Exported to grid: 150 kWh
- Self-consumed: 200 kWh
- Imported from grid: 200 kWh
- Final bill: Net 50 kWh + fixed charges
2026 Bill Updates You Should Know
✅ Credits now roll over indefinitely — No more annual reset ✅ Credits transfer to new owner — Increases home resale value ✅ Voluntary REC meters — Save ₱30,000-₱50,000 upfront ✅ 20-day processing — From months to weeks
Monitoring Your Investment
Track these monthly:
- NM-Export Energy KWh — Verify system performance
- Seasonal patterns (higher in summer, lower rainy season)
- Impact of energy-saving efforts
Conclusion
Your post-solar Meralco bill is a report card of your investment success. Understanding these line items helps you maximize savings and track system performance.
FAQ
What if my export exceeds my import? Excess credits roll over to next month indefinitely.
How do I know if my system is performing well? Compare your NM-Export Energy month-over-month. A 5kW system should produce ~600-750 kWh/month.
Can credits be transferred if I sell my home? Yes! Credits are now tied to the property and transfer to the new owner.