Question: Can I run my PV system prior to having a net meter installed?

Answer:

While you should test your PV system to make sure it is operational, any excess energy delivered back onto Xcel Energy’s system might not be counted as a credit until properly net metered for PV production.  Net metering and billing may not occur until the net meter is in place and the customer is placed on the PV rate.  Running a PV system with a standard electronic meter will cause incremental charges for energy that runs back through the meter and onto the grid, thus we recommend testing the system and then moving to full operation when the new net meter is in place and the account is set up on the PV rate.