Spanish Net Metering Explained
Net Metering Guide for Expats in Spain
Everything foreign residents need to know about Spanish solar compensation rules, grid connections, and maximizing returns under RD 244/2019 regulations.
Key Points for Expats
Spain doesn't have traditional "net metering" like the US/UK. Instead, it uses a "net billing" system where excess solar is compensated at wholesale rates (~€0.05/kWh) while you buy electricity at retail rates (~€0.25/kWh). This guide explains how to maximize your savings under Spanish rules.
Net Metering Compensation Calculator
See how much you can save with Spanish solar compensation
800 kWh
600 kWh
Your Compensation
Self-consumed energy600 kWh
Excess to grid200 kWh
Self-consumption savings€150.00/mo
Grid compensation€10.20/mo
Total monthly savings€160.20
Energy independence100.0%
Complete Spanish Net Metering Guide
Everything you need to know about solar compensation in Spain
Understanding Spanish Solar Compensation
What is "Autoconsumo" in Spain?
Spain uses "autoconsumo" (self-consumption) regulated by Royal Decree 244/2019. Unlike true net metering where credits roll over, Spain compensates excess solar monthly at wholesale rates.
You consume your solar first (saves €0.25/kWh)
Excess goes to grid (compensated at €0.05/kWh)
Compensation applied to monthly bill
Credits don't roll over - use it or lose it
Key Differences from UK/US Systems
Spanish System
- • Net billing (not metering)
- • Monthly settlement
- • Wholesale compensation rates
- • No annual rollover
- • Max offset: energy charges only
UK/US Systems
- • True net metering
- • Annual credit banking
- • 1:1 credit exchange
- • Credits roll over
- • Can offset entire bill
Best Electricity Companies for Solar Compensation
Compare compensation rates from Spanish electricity retailers
| Company | Compensation Rate | Min Contract | English Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy | €0.07/kWh | None | Best for expats | |
| Holaluz | €0.06/kWh | 1 year | Green energy focus | |
| Iberdrola | €0.051/kWh | None | Largest network | |
| Endesa | €0.05/kWh | None | Good app | |
| Naturgy | €0.048/kWh | 1 year | Stable rates |
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