Calculator and solar panels.

Your Solar Bill Explained

August 07, 20252 min read

Your Solar Bill Explained

Why You Still Get an Electric Bill

And How to Keep It Low

So, you’ve got solar panels on your roof, but then your utility bill shows up and you’re thinking: “Wait… I thought solar meant no more electric bill?”

You’re not alone! This is one of the most common questions we hear at Terra Energy, so let’s clear it up, minus the jargon.

Why You Still Get a Bill

When you go solar, your panels generate power for your home. But unless you have a giant and expensive battery that stores all your extra energy (and most folks don’t), you still stay connected to the grid.

Here’s what happens:

  • When the sun’s shining, your panels cover your energy use first.

  • If you produce more than you need, the extra goes back to the grid. Some utilities even credit you for that, it’s called net metering.

  • At night or on cloudy days, you draw power from the grid again.

So, your utility bill shows what you used minus what you sent back. You’re paying for the “gap.”

Men counting coins

How Terra Keeps It Simple

Unlike big loan-based solar setups, Terra’s subscription plan means:

  • No huge upfront cost.

  • No surprise fees.

  • Up to 50% savings on your utility bill

  • One clear, lower monthly rate.

Your subscription covers the panels and maintenance; you just pay your usual utility for any leftover power you use from the grid. It’s the same energy you’d buy anyway, just with less coming from the utility and more coming from your roof.

3 Simple Ways to Keep That Utility Bill Extra Low

Your panels are already doing the heavy lifting, but these easy steps help your savings stretch even further:

  • Run big appliances during the day.

Dishwasher? Laundry? If the sun’s out, run it now! You’ll use your own solar power instead of paying the utility.

  • Switch to LEDs & smart plugs.

Little things add up. LED bulbs, smart plugs, and smart thermostats help you waste less energy, so you buy less from the grid. (Check our previous blog for those ideas!)

  • Check your settings once a season.

Checking appliances, programming your thermostat, and setting reminders to adjust timers for daylight changes, help you squeeze out even more savings.

Takeaway: Solar Isn’t Zero… But It Is Lower

So, yes, your bill probably won’t hit zero (unless you’re completely off-grid with a massive battery). But with the right plan, it can drop by 50% or more compared to what you’d pay for all your power from the utility.

At Terra Energy, our goal is simple: Same power, lower price, without the hassle.

No big loan. No lien. Cancel any time after three years. Just clean energy that saves you money.

Curious What You Could Save?

Let’s run the numbers for your home, no pressure, no surprises.

Get a free quote!

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