Sizing for the new rules
Under 1:1 net metering, the goal was simple: offset your annual usage. Under CSU’s time-of-use option, exported midday power earns credit at the value of the hour it was produced, and the $1 daily fee is about $365 a year to cover before savings begin. That often argues for a slightly smaller system matched to what you use in real time, possibly with a battery.
Under the demand-charge option, you keep 1:1 kWh credits but pay based on your highest 15-minute interval each month. Homes that run a big load at once — a dryer, oven and EV charger together — feel that charge; homes with steady use feel it less.
When solar may not pay off in the Springs
If your bill is modest, your usage is mostly in the evening, and you don’t plan to add a battery or EV, the new fixed fee and credit structure can stretch payback well past what most people want. We’d rather tell you that than sell you a system. Larger households, homes with EVs, and homes going all-electric generally still come out ahead.
The effective date for new installs wasn’t confirmed when we wrote this, so we model your project under the new rules unless CSU confirms otherwise in writing.
Financing in a changed market
Leases and PPAs shift the rule-change risk onto the system owner, who can also claim the §48E federal credit for systems placed in service by the end of 2027. Our lease and PPA offers typically run $125–$240 a month with a 0–3% escalator. If you buy, Colorado RENU loans through Westerra Credit Union (7.74–8.99% APR) and Concert Finance (8.99%) are available as of September 2026.
FAQ
Questions we hear
How much does the new CSU solar fee add per year?
The time-of-use option’s $1 daily charge is about $365 a year. Total impact depends on how your exports are credited; reporting cited $30+ a month for typical solar customers.
Is solar still worth it in Colorado Springs in 2026?
For many homes, yes, but fewer than before. Homes with high usage, EVs or batteries fare best. Low-usage, evening-heavy homes may not see a reasonable payback, and we’ll tell you if that’s you.
Can I avoid the new rules by installing now?
We can’t promise that. The cutoff for new installs wasn’t confirmed when we wrote this. Get CSU’s answer in writing before counting on legacy treatment.
Does the October 2026 CSU rate decrease affect solar savings?
Slightly. A lower rate means each kWh you offset is worth a bit less, but the decrease was about $1.50 a month for an average customer, so the net metering change matters far more.