Exploring Aggregate Metering: NEMV vs. NEMA

Let's dive into the world of aggregate metering and unravel the intriguing differences between NEMV and NEMA. In California's energy landscape, where sustainability is a driving force, understanding these concepts can empower customers to make informed decisions about their energy usage.

Net Energy Metering (NEM) serves as the foundation of renewable energy incentives, allowing customers to offset their energy consumption by feeding excess power back into the grid. But when it comes to customers with multiple meters or properties, things get interesting with Virtual Net Energy Metering (NEMV) and Aggregate Net Energy Metering (NEMA).

NEMA is like the conductor orchestrating a symphony of energy across multiple meters. It enables a customer with several meters on the same or adjacent properties to combine their renewable energy generation, effectively offsetting the collective load behind all eligible meters. It's like having one big energy party where everyone contributes to the groove.

Now, picture NEMV as the solo artist stealing the spotlight on the energy stage. This option caters to customers with multiple meters on a single property, allowing them to aggregate their renewable energy output and offset the combined load behind all meters. But here's the twist: the meter measuring renewable energy output stands alone, without any additional load behind it, solely focused on tracking renewable energy production. It's like having a dedicated spotlight on your renewable energy efforts, shining bright for all to see.

One of the coolest features of NEMV is the power allocation control it offers. It's like having the DJ's control deck in your hands, allowing you to decide how much power is allocated to each aggregate account. Whether you're prioritizing predicted loads or considering cost implications, NEMV gives you the flexibility to fine-tune your energy distribution strategy. It's all about empowering customers to tailor their energy usage based on their unique needs and priorities.

On the flip side, NEMA operates more like a pre-set playlist, where the utility company determines the percentage of usage allocation. While it simplifies the process, it may limit the flexibility to optimize energy allocation based on individual preferences.

One of the coolest features of NEMV is the power allocation control it offers. It's like having the DJ's control deck in your hands, allowing you to decide how much power is allocated to each aggregate account. Whether you're prioritizing predicted loads or considering cost implications, NEMV gives you the flexibility to fine-tune your energy distribution strategy. It's all about empowering customers to tailor their energy usage based on their unique needs and priorities. And here's the kicker: NEMV also allows customers to sell back excess energy to the grid, but at the wholesale rate. While it won't make you rich overnight, every little bit counts, right?

In a nutshell, understanding the nuances between NEMV and NEMA is like mastering the dance between freedom and structure in the energy world. It's about finding the right balance between control, convenience, and incentives to make the most of your renewable energy journey. So, whether you're rocking out with NEMV or grooving with NEMA, remember that the power is in your hands to shape a more sustainable future.

For more information about the NEMA click here. https://www.pge.com/assets/pge/docs/account/billing-and-assistance/nema-billing-guide.pdf