A lot of business owners want to know, “Can businesses use net energy metering, or is it just for homes?” Yes, the answer is yes. In fact, many businesses, stores, and industries around the country employ net energy metering (NEM) to save money and keep the lights on.

Let’s break it down. It’s almost the same as what you would find in a house. If your rooftop system creates more power than your office computers, elevators, and big walk-in freezers need, you transfer the extra power to the grid. Flip the meter over. Get points. Put away money on those warm afternoons. At night or when it’s stormy, you “spend” the credits by acquiring power from the grid. You may think of it as a piggy bank for your bills.

When it comes to commercial systems, it’s a totally other issue. The scale is bigger. Most of the time, the rewards are better. Some states provide enterprises that employ solar energy more rewards. Since the late 1990s, NEM has been popular in California. Chains of grocery shops, warehouses, and even stadiums have made money, usually covering costs of six or seven figures a year. It’s not just about the money; in a world where customers want enterprises to be more environmentally friendly, a solar array is always excellent for business.

That doesn’t imply everyone can do anything. There are limits and rules. States can limit how big systems can get. Utilities may need better meters or some safety gear from time to time. For example, in New York, commercial projects that utilize more above 25 kilowatts often have to go through a certain application process. It’s a good idea to verify with your power company or municipal guidelines before putting up a single panel.

You could be surprised by a few things. Rates go up and down. Depending on your zip code and utility, the juice you send to the grid can be credited at either the retail or wholesale price. Once a year, certain systems have “true-ups,” when credits that aren’t used either expire or are paid out at a lower rate. Always read the fine print! Everyone hates surprises on their energy bill.

In short, net energy metering is now an option. It doesn’t only work for homes and small businesses. There are several ways that businesses, from big-box stores to industrial parks, can use solar energy and save money. A skylight may be a money high-five every day the sun shines.