On-Grid / Net-Metered
Feed the grid, earn credits, and slash your electricity bill — the simplest and most affordable solar option.
Get a Free QuoteWhat Is On-Grid / Net-Metered?
An on-grid (grid-tied) solar system connects your solar panels directly to the utility grid without batteries. During the day, solar powers your home and any surplus is exported to the grid for credits. It is the most cost-effective solar installation because it removes the battery expense while still delivering significant monthly savings.
An on-grid solar system consists of solar panels wired to a grid-tied inverter, which converts DC electricity to grid-synchronized AC power. When your panels produce more electricity than you consume, the excess flows backward through your meter to the utility grid — a process called net metering. Under Philippine law (RA 9513 and ERC Net Metering Rules), distribution utilities like VECO are required to accept this surplus and credit you at the blended generation rate. At night or on cloudy days, you draw normally from the grid. There are no batteries, making this the simplest and lowest-cost solar option available.
How It Works
Solar Panel Generation
Panels produce DC power proportional to sunlight intensity. A south-facing or flat roof in Leyte can generate 4–5 kWh per installed kWp on an average day.
Grid-Tie Inverter Conversion
A grid-tie inverter converts DC to AC at exactly the same frequency and phase as the grid (60 Hz in the Philippines). This synchronization is required for safe export.
Load Priority
Solar power first satisfies your own loads (appliances, lights, etc.). If generation exceeds consumption, surplus flows to the grid.
Bidirectional Meter & Net Metering
A DOE/ERC-approved bidirectional meter records both import and export. Your monthly bill deducts your export credits from your consumption, reducing the amount owed.
Automatic Grid Safety Shutdown
On-grid inverters include anti-islanding protection — they automatically shut down during grid outages for safety, restarting automatically when the grid is restored.
Key Benefits
Lowest Upfront Cost
No batteries means 30–50% lower installation cost compared to hybrid systems. A 5 kW on-grid system in the Philippines typically costs ₱180,000–₱280,000 installed.
Earn Bill Credits
Exported kWh are credited at your utility's blended generation rate. Homes with large daytime loads (offices, businesses) can achieve near-zero monthly bills.
Fastest Payback
With no battery costs, on-grid systems can pay back in 2-3 years — the shortest ROI of any solar configuration at current Leyte electricity rates.
Minimal Maintenance
No moving parts, no battery replacement, no electrolyte checks. Panels require only occasional cleaning; inverters are rated for 10–15 years of service.
Scalable Design
Start with a smaller system and add panels later. Batteries can be added at any time to upgrade to a hybrid setup as your needs or budget change.
Environmental Impact
A 5 kW system offsets approximately 3 tonnes of CO₂ per year — the equivalent of removing one car from the road annually.
Common Use Cases
- Residential homes with stable grid supply and predictable daytime usage
- Offices and commercial buildings operating primarily during daylight hours
- Schools, churches, and community buildings with daytime-heavy loads
- Businesses looking for the fastest return on solar investment
- Properties where budget constraints make battery systems impractical
Typical Specifications
| Typical System Size | 3 kW – 100 kW+ |
| Inverter Type | Grid-Tie (no battery port) |
| Panel Type | Monocrystalline PERC / TOPCon |
| Net Metering Eligibility | Up to 100 kW under RA 9513 |
| Credit Rate | Blended generation rate (utility-set) |
| Inverter Lifespan | 10–15 years |
| Panel Warranty | 25-year linear power output warranty |
| Grid Compliance | DOE/ERC-compliant anti-islanding protection |
Ready to install On-Grid / Net-Metered?
JMC Solar PH serves Ormoc City and all of Eastern Visayas. Get a free site assessment and quote.
References & Sources
- Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Philippines — Net Metering Rules and Regulations
- Department of Energy Philippines — Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (RA 9513)
- IRENA — Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems
- NREL — Solar Photovoltaic System Basics