How long does VECO net metering approval take in Cebu?

From application to your first credited bill takes 4-8 weeks. SolarConcept Cebu handles the full process: filing the application, coordinating the bi-directional meter swap, and following up with VECO until the credits land on your bill.

Is VECO net metering free?

Yes. There is no fee to apply for VECO net metering in Cebu. The only cost is the bi-directional meter installation, which is included in your solar install quote. You will see solar credits on every bill going forward.

Do VECO net metering credits expire?

Credits roll over month-to-month. You don't lose what you don't use. After 5 years of credit accumulation, VECO may issue a check for any remaining balance — your call on whether to keep exporting or cash out.

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VECO Net Metering in Cebu: Complete 2026 Guide

Q: What if I'm in Mandaue — do I use VECO or MECO?

Mandaue City is served by MECO (Mandaue Electric Company), not VECO. The net metering process is similar but you file with MECO instead. SolarConcept Cebu handles both — we serve all of Metro Cebu.

Net metering is what makes residential solar in the Philippines actually pay back. Without it, you'd lose the surplus power your panels generate during the day. This guide explains how VECO net metering works, what paperwork is required, the timeline, and how SolarConcept Cebu handles the entire process for free as part of your installation.

What is net metering?

Net metering is a billing arrangement with your electric utility (VECO in most of Metro Cebu) that lets your solar system export surplus power back to the grid during the day. In exchange, you receive a peso credit on your next bill equal to what you exported.

Think of it as a rolling credit account with VECO:

Daytime: Solar generates more than you use → surplus flows to grid → credit accumulates
Nighttime: Solar stops → you draw from grid → credits are spent down
Net effect: Your bill reflects only the net difference

Under the Philippine Energy Regulatory Commission's net metering rules (Resolution 09, Series of 2013, amended in 2020 and 2023), all distribution utilities are required to offer net metering to qualified solar customers. VECO is one of the most active implementers in the country.

VECO net metering: step by step

Site survey + system design (1 day) — SolarConcept Cebu visits, measures your roof, audits your load, and designs the right system.
Install the solar system (2-5 days) — mounting, panels, inverter, battery, wiring, commissioning.
File VECO net metering application (week 1) — we submit your signed application + system specs to VECO.
VECO inspection + approval (week 2-4) — VECO inspects the installation against their safety and technical standards.
Bi-directional meter swap (week 4-6) — VECO replaces your old meter with a net meter that tracks both directions.
First credited bill (week 6-8) — you receive your first bill showing solar export credits.

SolarConcept Cebu handles every step. You don't need to visit VECO's office — we coordinate everything.

VECO net metering requirements

To qualify for VECO net metering in Cebu, you need:

An active VECO residential or commercial account in good standing
An installed solar PV system that meets Philippine Electrical Code and ERC standards
System capacity not exceeding 100 kW (residential) or 500 kW (commercial)
A licensed electrical practitioner to sign off on the installation (SolarConcept Cebu provides this)
Passing VECO's safety inspection

How VECO net metering saves you money

Let's say your 5 kW solar system generates 25 kWh per day. You use 15 kWh during the day and export 10 kWh to the grid. At night you draw 10 kWh from the grid.

With VECO at PHP 11/kWh:

Without net metering: You'd be credited nothing for the 10 kWh you exported. You'd pay full price for the 10 kWh you drew at night. Effective cost: PHP 220/night.
With net metering: Your 10 kWh export credits your account. You draw 10 kWh at night using those credits. Effective cost: PHP 0/night.

That's why net metering typically cuts a Cebu homeowner's bill by 60-95%. Without it, you'd be wasting surplus solar every sunny day.

Mandaue residents: it's MECO, not VECO

Mandaue City is served by MECO (Mandaue Electric Company), a separate utility from VECO. The net metering process is similar but you file with MECO. SolarConcept Cebu is registered with both VECO and MECO and handles applications for either utility. See our cost guide for what to budget.

Get started with VECO net metering in Cebu

Free site survey — we handle all VECO paperwork

Get Free Site Survey Call +63 915 810 7775

About SolarConcept Cebu: Solar panel installation team with 30+ installs across Metro Cebu since March 2022. VECO and MECO registered net metering partner. About our team →