Antigua's draft Net Metering Regulations are in circulation. Here is a plain-language breakdown of what they say, what they get right, and where they fall short.
What the Draft Gets Right
85% export rate: Credits at EC$0.3825/kWh — significantly better than jurisdictions offering 50–60% of retail. 12-month rolling credit: Unused credits roll over for a full year. No ongoing fees: Beyond the XCD 500 application fee, no annual charges that would erode small-system economics.
Where It Falls Short
5kW residential cap: Prevents households with EVs, pools, or heavy A/C from sizing appropriately. Could be replaced with smart inverter requirements as Barbados does. Missing interconnection standards: Silent on technical connection requirements, creating unpredictable approval timelines. Commercial systems deferred: Hotels and large buildings — Antigua's biggest solar opportunity — left to an undefined separate regulatory process.
Bottom Line
As written, these regulations would meaningfully improve residential solar economics. The 5kW cap and missing interconnection standards should be addressed before finalization. Public consultation is open — contact APUA or the Ministry of Public Utilities to submit comments.