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Demystifying Your PG&E Solar True-Up

Don't be surprised by an end-of-year bill. Learn how to track your credits, usage, and payments throughout the year with our independent guide.

Read the Guide arrow_downward Download Checklist (PDF)

Anatomy of a True-Up Statement

Understanding these three pillars is the key to mastering your solar financial progress.

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Your Annual Statement
Account: 1234567890-1
1. NEM Charges/Credits -$142.20

The dollar value of the energy you've sent back to the grid vs. consumed.

2. Non-Bypassable Charges (NBCs) $12.45

Mandatory fees for grid maintenance and state programs that solar credits cannot offset.

3. Net Generation Total -$129.75

Your rolling balance. A negative number means you have a credit banked for winter.

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Energy Credits

During summer, your "bank" grows. These credits carry forward until your anniversary date.

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NBCs: The Fine Print

NBCs average about 2-3 cents per kWh. Even if you produce 100% of your energy, you'll still pay these every month.

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The Pitfall

The 'True-Up Surprise'

Most homeowners get a $0 bill for 11 months, then suddenly receive a $2,000 charge in the 12th month. Why?

  • ev_station
    Unaccounted EV Charging: Adding a Tesla or Rivian can double your usage overnight.
  • ac_unit
    Heat Wave Spikes: Running A/C during Peak hours (4 PM - 9 PM) depletes credits 3x faster.
  • trending_up
    Rate Increases: If PG&E raises rates mid-year, your banked credits may buy less power than before.

How to Track Your Progress

Don't wait for the mail. Monitor your balance in real-time through the PG&E portal.

1

Login to Dashboard

Navigate to the 'Energy Usage' tab on pge.com and look for the 'Solar' sub-menu.

2

Find 'Net Energy'

View the 'Year-to-Date' balance. This shows exactly what your True-Up would be if it happened today.

3

Check Your Month

See which month you are in (e.g., Month 4 of 12). If you are negative in Month 10, you are in great shape.

Optimizing for Next Year

If your True-Up balance is consistently over $500, your system is likely undersized for your current lifestyle. Here's how to fix it:

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Add 2-4 Panels

Best for new EV owners. Usually provides the extra 10-15% production needed to zero out.

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Add Battery Storage

Best for NEM 3.0 or TOU-C customers. Shift your usage from night to day without drawing from the grid.

monitoring System Efficiency Report
CURRENT PRODUCTION
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OPTIMIZED PRODUCTION (WITH BATTERY)

Visual simulation based on local Central Coast irradiation data.

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Still Confused? We Can Help.

Upload your latest statement for a free, no-obligation True-Up Review. Our experts will identify inefficiencies and provide an optimization roadmap.

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