Letter: A reasonable net metering bill is still missing from ND's energy strategy Net metering is an electricity billing mechanism that allows consumers who generate some or all of their own electricity to use that electricity anytime, instead of when it is generated. This is particularly important with renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which are non-dispatchable, according to Wikipedia. Written By: Ed Gruchalla | × Our utilities need to work with their customers (you) to build systems where if an individual wants to produce his own electricity he can do it without interference. Right now if you want to place solar panels on your roof all the utility has to pay you is “avoided cost,” which is about 2.5 cents per kilowatt hour. They charge you about 11.5 cents per kilowatt hour.