05-25-2009, 05:42 AM
Re: Stillhope's question about 'running the meter to zero'. An example would be that at some point you install a solar electric system, tied into the HELCO grid. You note the meter reading when you cut in the switch. When HELCO ratifies the billing, if your meter at that point shows a LOWER number than you started with, you will not receive credit for the difference between the two numbers. In effect any excess electricity you generate would be a free gift to HELCO. That's one reason why sizing the solar system correctly to your usage is so important. Best way to get it right is: 1. Cut down on your usage by using CFLs, shutting off equipment with 'ghost power' requirements when they are not being used (TV, Stereo, chargers, etc.) and 2. Monitoring your usage over a 3 to 6 month period before sizing the solar system.