Can You Export Solar Energy? Solar Export Rate Programs in Arizona

Updated: June 18,2025

Understanding Solar Export Rates in Arizona

Solar export rates are the payments Arizona homeowners get for the extra solar energy their systems create and send to the grid. These rates are determined by local utility companies and vary depending on the state, utility provider, and specific program. Exporting solar energy helps homeowners save on energy costs. They can earn credits or payments for the extra electricity they produce.

Solar Export Rate Programs in Arizona

Arizona offers several programs to incentivize solar energy adoption and provide fair compensation for exported energy. Key programs include net billing and net metering, which differ in how exported energy is credited. While net metering provides a one-to-one credit based on the retail electricity rate, net billing credits are calculated at a lower rate, often referred to as an avoided cost rate. Understanding the specifics of these programs is essential for homeowners to make informed decisions about installing solar systems and maximizing their financial benefits.

How Much do I get for Selling Electricity Back to the Grid?

Solar export rates take the place of net metering. They decide how much you get paid for extra solar energy your system sends back to the grid. These solar export rates are usually lower than standard grid electricity costs, so exporting excess power may be less financially rewarding than net metering. Furthermore, this context emphasizes the approach of possibly selecting a solar system that is appropriately sized—not overly large to prevent unnecessary energy export—or one that includes a battery system, which will be elaborated on further below.

For a comprehensive guide to understanding how solar export rates work and their impact on your solar investment, visit Energy.Gov

Arizona customers can click on the following links to learn more about current export rate programs from Arizona’s largest Utilities: APS or SRP. 

What is a Non-Export Solar System?

A non-export solar system is designed to keep the energy produced by solar panels from being sent back to the utility grid. Instead, all the electricity generated is used on-site, making it a great option for properties with high energy needs or limited grid access. These systems often include advanced energy management technology to ensure the solar energy is used efficiently with minimal waste. They are also commonly paired with batteries to store extra energy produced during the day for use later, like in the evening or during power outages.

Optimizing System Size for Solar Export Rates

It is often cheaper to design a system that covers about 60% of your electricity use. This is because export rates usually provide less financial benefit than net metering. This approach ensures that every kilowatt-hour produced is a kilowatt-hour saved from your utility bill. A skilled energy consultant can show different options. This will help you make a smart decision about Solar Export Rates. 

Leveraging Batteries for Optimal Solar Utilization 

To be completely self-sufficient with home electricity, you should add batteries to your solar system. This will greatly help you. Batteries provide a steady power supply by storing extra energy. This energy can be used during peak hours, at night, or during power outages. Batteries can increase your grid resiliency and reduce utility-supplied power dependency. With this setup, you could limit utility charges to unavoidable fees and local taxes. Details on how solar batteries can improve your solar system’s efficiency are available. This is especially true under export rate plans. You can find more information at SEIA’s Solar & Storage initiative. 

Solar Topps and Solar Export Rates

Solar Topps expertly matches solar system sizes to your energy needs while navigating local utility rates. Besides system installation, we can integrate battery storage solutions for scalable energy storage to meet your needs. Starting with a system that provides 60% of your electricity doesn’t hinder future expansions as rates and incentives change. At Solar Topps, we service the entire state of Arizona. We are based in Phoenix, AZ, but service cities like Glendale, Tucson, Buckeye, Paradise Valle and more!

Eager to embrace solar? Reach out to us at 480-940-1201 or Get A Quote to embark on your journey with Solar Topps, where we make solar simple and the savings significant.