A net meter is the type of meter used for solar. It’s a smart meter, configured for net metering.
How net metering works
Your solar energy is used in your home first, so you buy less from the grid. Any extra energy goes back into the grid. The net meter only counts the solar you don’t use and send to the grid.
Getting a net meter for your new solar system
After the installation of your solar system, the important next step is the set-up of your meter.
Customers with an existing smart meter will need their meter configured for net metering.
Customers with a basic meter will need a totally new meter, set up for solar.
If you’ve just installed solar, your installer will usually organise your new meter for you.
In QLD and VIC, they’ll apply for a meter upgrade on your behalf. This usually takes 15–20 business days.
In other states, they’ll request it through our Origin Connect portal.
You can learn more about feed-in tariffs by visiting our what is a feed-in tariff article.