Behind the Meter
“Behind the meter” is a phrase used to describe solar, battery storage, and other energy assets that are privately owned (rather than utility owned). Leveraging behind-the-meter assets makes it possible for commercial and residential customers to supplement or, in some cases, replace electricity sourced from the energy grid.
Examples: Behind the Meter
Installing solar panels on a homeowner’s rooftop might be the most well-known example of going “behind the meter.” That said, our team at New Era Land Services believes commercial and industrial use cases represent a massive opportunity for private organizations—especially companies that utilize large amounts of power:
Data Centers: Electricity demand from data centers in the United States tripled over the past decade, according to a 2024 article published by the U.S. Department of Energy. With the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) applications and even more connected devices, the same report projects that data center load growth will double or triple again by 2028. That’s good news if you’re in the data center business, but increased demand is not without its share of challenges—including rising electricity costs. Implementing on-site energy generation and storage technologies could support elevated demand while controlling costs and downtime risks.
Retail Distribution Centers: In many communities, large online retailers and brick-and-mortar superstores have replaced local establishments. Supplying goods for approximately 331 million people in a country spanning over 3.8 million square miles is no small task—one that requires efficient logistics, strategically placed distribution centers, and lots of electricity.
Manufacturing Facilities: The U.S. Small Business Administration’s presentation from 2025 indicates that the United States is home to at least 603 thousand small business manufacturers. Fabricating metals, producing food products, building furniture, and formulating chemicals are processes that share one common need: electricity. Considering a “behind-the-meter” energy source like solar or wind could make financial sense and potentially yield enhanced performance for shareholders.
Getting Started: Behind the Meter
Cost savings, risk mitigation, and environmental concerns are just a few reasons why companies are increasingly interested in behind-the-meter solutions. For commercial and industrial organizations looking to achieve these benefits, knowing where to start can seem unclear. The Department of Energy’s Onsite Energy Program may be a helpful resource. The program offers a network of “TAPs” (Technical Assistance Partnerships) to streamline the adoption of behind-the-meter energy sources, including:
● Battery storage
● Geothermal
● Solar
● Wind
Implementing on-site energy sources likely involves a variety of land-related challenges, too. That’s where we can help. Our team at New Era Land Services offers professional land services to support lease acquisition, landowner and stakeholder engagement, contract negotiation, and right of way. Contact us to discuss your behind-the-meter energy project.