Non-Export Solar Guide / Get Approved Without Net Metering

If your utility says “no new solar” or refuses net metering, you still may have viable paths. The key is to separate (1) interconnection approval from (2) export permission, then build a utility-compliant, fail-safe plan.

• Measurable business outcome: A correctly sized self-consumption system can materially cut grid purchases. Many households pair solar + storage to target meaningful bill reduction, though results are location- and tariff-dependent.
• Implementation barrier: Utilities worry about backfeed and protection settings on a saturated feeder. They may require certified export-limiting controls, documentation, and sometimes a witness test.
• Strategic advantage: Non-export solar with batteries can add resiliency and cost control. It can also reduce exposure to changing net-metering rules and export compensation.

Fast answer: the shortest path to “approved” non-export solar

• First call: Ask whether the utility is rejecting all interconnections or only exporting generators.
• If non-export interconnection is allowed: Propose a zero-export solar with battery design using an inverter/controller that supports certified export limiting.
• Bring proof: Submit a single-line diagram, inverter spec sheets, and an export-limit commissioning test plan.
• Don’t assume: A battery alone does not guarantee zero export. Utilities expect a control method that limits output based on service-entrance metering (often CT-based).
• If interconnection is fully paused: Practical alternatives include community solar, efficiency and demand shifting, or an off-grid-capable system that is electrically isolated from the grid.
• If this is actually HOA/zoning: Lower-visibility placement or solar shingles can address aesthetics. You still need utility approval if the system connects to the grid.

Decision tree: what kind of “ban” are you dealing with?

Use this to choose the right workaround and avoid wasting time on the wrong application. The category determines what documentation and design constraints will matter most.

1. Utility interconnection pause (hard stop): “We are not approving new distributed generation interconnections.” This is typically a hosting-capacity, feeder, transformer, or protection-coordination constraint.
2. Export restriction (soft stop): “No net metering / no export.” A non-export solar design may still be eligible for interconnection.
3. Local permitting/zoning restriction: Height, setbacks, historic district, or roof rules. This is a municipal process issue and may be solvable with design changes.
4. HOA restriction: Aesthetics and placement rules. Review your CC&Rs and any state-level limitations on HOA restrictions.

Why utilities say “the grid is maxed out” (and what it usually means)

When a utility says the grid is “maxed out” for solar, they usually mean the local distribution system can’t reliably absorb additional export at certain times without upgrades. This is often a localized feeder-level issue rather than a system-wide shortage.

• Hosting capacity / feeder capacity: High midday voltage from existing PV can push the circuit into voltage violations.
• Transformer limits: Neighborhood transformers may not be sized for reverse power flow.
• Protection and anti-islanding coordination: More generators complicate fault detection and isolation, so utilities act conservatively.
• Process bottlenecks: Study backlogs can look like “bans” in practice.

This matters because a solar without net metering plan must address the utility’s core risk: uncontrolled export and backfeed.

Can you install solar that does not export? (Non-export vs export-limited)

“Non-export solar” is commonly implemented as grid-connected self-consumption solar with controls that keep net power at the utility meter at (or below) zero export. Some utilities use the term “export-limited” even when the limit is set to 0 kW.

What utilities typically require for “zero export”

• Export-limiting inverter capability (or an external controller) that regulates PV output based on site load.
• Metering at the service entrance (often CT clamps on mains) so the controller sees real-time import/export.
• Fail-safe behavior: If measurement, communications, or control power fails, the system must default to no export (often via PV curtailment or opening a relay).
• Anti-islanding: The inverter must stop energizing when the grid is down, unless a code-compliant backup interface isolates the home from the grid.

What does not automatically solve backfeed risk

• “Just add a battery”: Batteries can reduce export but cannot guarantee it without an export-control method.
• “Turn off export in the app”: Utilities may require verification, commissioning evidence, and sometimes a witness test.
• Oversizing PV and hoping self-consumption absorbs it: Export can still occur when PV exceeds load and charging limits.

Step-by-step: how to request approval for a non-export system

This is a practical path when net metering is off the table but interconnection might still be possible. The goal is to submit a compliance-style packet that clearly controls export risk.

Step 1: get the denial reason in writing (and confirm the allowed pathway)

Ask whether the issue is export, interconnection in general, or a temporary moratorium. Confirm any required standards for export limiting, documentation, and testing.

Utility call script (copy/paste):
1) Can you confirm whether the restriction is: (a) no exporting generation, or (b) no new interconnections at all?
2) If non-export is allowed, what is your required technical standard for export limiting (device type, certifications, fail-safe expectations)?
3) Do you require a witness test or telemetry to verify zero export compliance?
4) Please email the interconnection requirements, application checklist, and the specific reason for any denial.
5) Is there a hosting capacity map, feeder capacity note, or interconnection study queue status you can share?

Step 2: build a “utility-ready” documentation packet

Many delays happen when applicants submit a generic net-metered packet. For non-export, submit a packet that reads like a risk-control plan.

• One-line diagram: PV, inverter(s), battery inverter (if any), main service panel, meter location, disconnects, and any control relays.
• Equipment cut sheets: Export limiting function, measurement method (CTs), and anti-islanding compliance.
• Operating modes: “Self-consumption” and “zero export / export limited to 0 kW” using the utility’s terminology.
• Commissioning plan: How you will demonstrate “no export” under varying load and PV output.
• Safety narrative: How backfeed is prevented, what happens on control failure, and what happens on grid outage.

Step 3: choose a non-export control architecture (in plain English)

Utilities want predictable behavior that can be tested and documented. Pick one approach and describe it consistently across drawings and forms.

• Hybrid inverter + battery with export limiting: PV serves house loads first, charges the battery next, and curtails PV last.
• AC-coupled PV with a dedicated export controller: Controller measures at the service entrance and throttles PV inverters as export approaches 0 kW.
• Hard export-block relay scheme: Certain engineered designs use contactors/relays to physically prevent backfeed under defined conditions.

Step 4: right-size the system for self-consumption (avoid “export by design”)

If PV is far above daytime load and battery charge rate, the controller will curtail frequently. Curtailment can protect compliance, but it may reduce financial returns and owner satisfaction.

• Use interval data: Gather 12 months of hourly or 15-minute usage data from your utility portal.
• Target: Maximize behind-the-meter generation used on-site, not just annual kWh.
• Be explicit: State the expected maximum export as 0 kW under reasonable scenarios.

Step 5: commissioning test (the part that gets you approved)

Demonstrate that even at peak PV output, net power at the meter does not go negative (export). Capture evidence the utility can file with the interconnection record.

Commissioning test outline (example):
A) High PV / low load test: minimize house loads while PV is producing; verify inverter/controller curtails to keep export at 0 kW.
B) Step-load test: add and remove a known load (e.g., 2–5 kW) and confirm controller responds without exporting.
C) Failure mode test (if permitted): simulate loss of CT signal/communications and confirm system enters no-export safe state.
D) Document: screenshots/logs, meter readings, and signed commissioning sheet for the interconnection file.

Implementation barrier to plan for: Some utilities only accept results from a licensed installer and may require a witness test appointment. Put this into the schedule early.

Battery-first self-consumption + backup: what works (and what to avoid)

Many homeowners pursue “zero export solar with battery” for bill savings and outage resilience. Backup capability depends on the electrical interface, not just battery capacity.

What a battery changes financially

• Raises self-consumption: Store midday PV and use it at night to reduce imports.
• Reduces friction during export bans: Batteries give the controller a place to send PV before curtailing.
• Improves peak shaving: On demand-charge or time-of-use tariffs, batteries can reduce peak costs.

Critical components for safe backup power

• Backup interface / transfer switch: Prevents energizing the grid during an outage.
• Critical loads panel: Keeps essentials running without backing up the entire home.
• Clear operating mode documentation: Defines what runs during outages and expected runtime assumptions.

You cannot “run solar off grid in a grid-tied house” unless equipment electrically isolates the home from the grid during outages. This is a safety requirement and a permitting issue.

Alternatives when interconnection is fully paused

If the utility says “no new interconnections, period,” a non-export application may still be rejected. In that case, focus on options that reduce costs without adding a new grid-tied generator.

Option	Best for	Primary benefit	Key limitation
Community solar	Renters, condos, interconnection-paused areas	Bill credits without rooftop equipment	Availability varies; contract terms matter
Efficiency-first (weatherization, heat pump, LEDs)	Everyone	Reliable kWh reduction; often fast ROI	Doesn’t provide backup power
Demand shifting (smart thermostats, EV charging off-peak)	Time-of-use rates	Lower effective cost per kWh purchased	Requires behavior change or automation
Solar shingles / HOA-friendly aesthetics	HOA-restricted neighborhoods	Improves design-based approval odds	Still needs utility interconnection if grid-tied
Ground-mount (where allowed)	Large lots, roof shading issues	Better orientation and serviceability	Zoning and permitting can be harder

HOA or municipal restrictions: the practical playbook

• Ask for the exact rule: Request the HOA solar policy and architectural guidelines in writing.
• Offer compliant designs: Lower-profile racking, rear-roof placement, and less-visible conduit runs, or solar shingles.
• Know your state context: Some states limit HOA restrictions; others do not. Don’t assume protections exist.

How to appeal, escalate, or force clarity (without burning time)

If you get a vague “no,” treat it like a procurement denial. You need the constraint, the standard, and a path to compliance or a clear timeline for reopening interconnections.

Escalation ladder

1. Interconnection department supervisor: Request the technical basis for denial and whether a non-export pathway exists.
2. Utility customer advocate: Use any formal escalation channel the utility provides.
3. Public Utility Commission (or equivalent regulator): File a complaint if the utility refuses to provide standards, timelines, or a consistent process.

Email template requesting a formal decision:
Subject: Request for written interconnection decision and non-export requirements

Hello [Name/Team],

I am requesting written clarification on the status of my solar interconnection request at [address/service account].

Please confirm:
1) Whether the current policy prohibits (a) export only, or (b) all new interconnections.
2) If non-export interconnection is allowed, the required technical standard for export limiting (including fail-safe expectations).
3) Any required testing (commissioning documentation and whether a witness test is required).
4) The specific reason for any denial and the steps to reapply.

Thank you,
[Full name]
[Service address]
[Phone]
[Account number]

Key point: Written requirements help you design once, submit once, and avoid repeated resubmittals that can undermine residential project economics.

FAQ: common questions utilities and homeowners ask

Does a battery prevent backfeed to the grid?

Not by itself. Batteries can reduce export, but preventing export typically requires a controller or inverter export-limiting function that measures net power at the service entrance and curtails PV as export approaches zero.

Is off-grid legal if my utility blocks interconnection?

It can be, but it’s jurisdiction-specific and still requires code-compliant electrical work and permits. The non-negotiable requirement is that an off-grid system cannot energize utility lines.

What if my solar application was rejected by the utility after I paid a deposit?

Ask for the written reason and whether a non-export redesign is eligible. If the utility is in a full interconnection pause, consider community solar and efficiency while pushing for clarity on timelines and upgrade plans.

Microinverter vs string inverter for non-export solar?

Either can work. The deciding factor is whether the system can reliably enforce an export limit at the meter with documented fail-safe behavior that meets utility requirements.

Approval checklist (print this before you talk to a contractor)

• I confirmed whether the issue is export-only or all interconnections.
• I requested the utility’s export-limiting requirements and any witness test rules.
• I have 12 months of interval usage data and a target for self-consumption.
• I selected an export-limiting architecture (CT-based at the service entrance) with fail-safe behavior documented.
• I prepared a packet: one-line diagram, equipment cut sheets, operating modes, commissioning test plan.
• I planned backup correctly (transfer switch/backup interface + critical loads panel) if resiliency is a goal.

Bottom line: If your solar interconnection is denied, the fastest route is to treat the utility like a risk auditor. Show how the design eliminates backfeed risk, prove it with commissioning, and document it like a compliance file.