The car as a solar sponge
Because Fort Collins credits exports at the time-of-day rate rather than 1:1, every kWh your car takes from your panels at noon is worth more than exporting it. Chargers that can follow solar production, such as Enphase’s IQ EV charger, make this largely automatic.
Off-peak scheduling
When the car isn’t home in the daytime, schedule charging for off-peak hours. On-peak prices in Fort Collins are at least three times off-peak, so a car that charges at 6 pm costs much more to run than one that charges after midnight.
Utility type
Municipal utility
Wholesale: Platte River Power Authority
How exports are credited
Exports credited at the time-of-day rate when sent
System size limit
Owned: 12 kW or 200% of usage; leased: the larger of 7.2 kW or 120%.
Net metering, in plain English
Exported solar is credited at the time-of-day rate in effect when the energy leaves your home, and on-peak prices are at least three times off-peak. Midday exports therefore earn less than evening power costs. Owned systems can be up to 12 kW or 200% of usage; leased systems are limited to the larger of 7.2 kW or 120%.
Time-of-use: Fort Collins residential customers are billed on time-of-day rates, with on-peak energy at least three times the off-peak price. Check the current seasonal on-peak hours on the city’s rate pages.
FAQ
Questions we hear
When should I charge an EV in Fort Collins?
Off-peak, or midday from your own solar. Check the city’s current seasonal on-peak hours and set your charger’s schedule around them.
Is there a Fort Collins rebate for a home EV charger?
We haven’t confirmed one for 2026. Check Fort Collins Utilities and Efficiency Works before you buy.
Should I size solar bigger for my EV in Fort Collins?
Only if the car can charge while the sun is up. If it charges at night, extra panels mostly export at the off-peak credit.