What does "virtual net metering" allow energy users to do?

"Virtual net metering" allows energy users to receive credit for energy generated from a shared renewable system, even if they do not directly use that energy in real-time at their physical location. This concept is particularly beneficial for community solar projects where multiple participants, such as residents or businesses, can collectively benefit from energy produced by a single solar array.

When individuals participate in virtual net metering, they typically receive financial credits on their utility bill based on the amount of energy their share of the system has generated. This means that users can benefit from clean, renewable energy sources without needing to install their own solar panels or other generation equipment. Effectively, this arrangement enhances access to renewable energy for those who may not have the ability to do so, promoting broader adoption of renewable systems and supporting sustainability efforts.

In contrast, the other options relate to different concepts: reducing overall energy consumption pertains to usage efficiency rather than credit systems; tracking energy usage involves monitoring but doesn’t necessarily provide financial benefits from generation; and purchasing energy credits from the market refers to buying renewable energy certificates rather than participating in a shared generating system.