If you are researching the ComEd DG rebate in 2026, check out this newer article explaining the financial benefits of the solar rebate and how it helps lower your upfront costs.
However, if you already have a solar system installed before December 1, 2024, understand the trade-offs before deciding whether to take the rebate. For these customers, their net metering program will change if they get the DG Rebate now.
This article provides the essential facts to help you make the right choice for your energy savings.
What is the DG Rebate?
The DG rebate is a financial incentive from ComEd, providing residential solar customers $300 per kilowatt (kW) of their solar panel DC size.
The rebate amount is calculated by multiplying the number of panels by their wattage and dividing by 1,000 to convert watts to kilowatts.
For example, a typical system with 28 panels, each producing 400 watts, would result in 11,200 watts, or 11.2 kW.
Multiplying 11.2 x $300 means this system qualifies for an upfront rebate check of $3,360.
Who is Eligible?
Customers whose solar systems became live after December 15, 2022, are eligible for the DG rebate.
This includes individuals who initially did not take the rebate but are receiving letters from ComEd encouraging them to take it now.
NOTE: If your system was installed between December 15, 2022, and December 1, 2024, you must carefully consider the implications of accepting this offer now.
How Does Net Metering Change With the DG Rebate?
Before 2025, ComEd net metering offered significant benefits to solar customers based on the number of kilowatt hours produced. It provided credits on the entire bill: supply, delivery, and taxes. This one-for-one credit system resulted in substantial monthly savings.
People who went solar in 2024 and before are grandfathered into this net metering program.
Starting in 2025, solar customers get credit only for the supply section of their bill. They no longer receive credit for the delivery and taxes portions.
Even if you are grandfathered into the older net metering program, once you accept the DG Rebate, your net metering program will update to the new version.
While the DG Rebate offers immediate financial relief in one lump sum, it reduces overall savings in the long term.
For example, customers may see a 70–80% reduction in their monthly energy bills after taking the rebate. Whereas that is significant savings, with the previous net metering program, many of our customers saw electric bills drop as low as $16/month.
Key Considerations for Current Solar Customers and the DG Rebate
If you went solar before December 1, 2024, and are now considering the DG Rebate, think about how long you plan to stay in your home.
- Long-Term Residence: If you plan to stay in your home for more than five years, it’s generally better to stick with net metering program you already have. As long as you don’t make any changes, you are grandfathered in to the net metering plan you already enjoy. The long-term savings outweigh the rebate’s upfront benefit.
- Short-Term Plans: If you plan to move within four years or less, taking the rebate may be more advantageous. The immediate cash would outweigh slightly higher monthly energy bills for the short duration you stay in your home.
- No Going Back: Just remember, once you opt for the rebate, you cannot revert to the previous net metering program.
Making an informed decision about the DG rebate is crucial to maximizing your solar investment. We encourage you to review all options carefully.
If you still have questions, contact Iconic Energy, and as always, may all your days be sunny!