Yes, there are utility-specific programs that offer additional incentives for solar batteries beyond federal and state incentives. Here are some notable examples:
Utility-Specific Programs Offering Solar Battery Incentives
- Massachusetts ConnectedSolutions Program: This is a demand response program where utilities pay customers for using renewable energy stored in their solar batteries during peak demand periods. Utilities send signals to qualified inverters (like Tesla Powerwall) to discharge stored energy to support the grid, typically up to 3 hours at a time during high-demand hours. Customers sign a 5-year contract and receive payments twice a year, with annual earnings up to $1,500 based on system size and performance. This program helps utilities reduce peak load and supports grid sustainability while providing financial benefits to storage owners.
- Mass Save Battery Storage Rebates: Residents in Massachusetts can receive $275 per kilowatt (kW) of battery average contribution during summer demand events as part of utility-sponsored battery storage incentives. Additional incentives for electrification and energy storage may be available locally through the Mass Save program.
- Massachusetts SMART Incentive Program: This statewide solar incentive program, run by utilities such as Eversource, offers additional incentives specifically for solar installations that include energy storage systems. It is notable for being one of the first in the nation to provide enhanced financial incentives for solar-plus-storage configurations.
- Rocky Mountain Power Wattsmart Battery Program: This utility program offers incentives for residential and commercial battery storage that is paired with solar. Customers can receive upfront payments of $600 per kW of battery power (up to 70% of battery cost) plus ongoing bill credits of $15 per kW annually. The utility can dispatch the battery for grid needs under a multi-year contract, typically allowing them to use a portion of the battery capacity to improve grid reliability and integrate more renewables.
Summary Table of Utility-Specific Solar Battery Incentives
| Program Name | Location | Type of Incentive | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| ConnectedSolutions | Massachusetts | Demand response payments | Payments up to $1,500/year for allowing utility to use battery during peak periods; 5-year contract |
| Mass Save Battery Storage Rebate | Massachusetts | Summer demand event rebate | $275 per kW average contribution during summer demand events |
| SMART Incentive Program | Massachusetts | Solar-plus-storage incentive | Additional incentives for solar combined with battery storage |
| Rocky Mountain Power Wattsmart Program | Rocky Mountain region | Upfront + ongoing bill credits | $600/kW upfront, $15/kW annual credits; utility can dispatch battery under contract |
These utility programs provide significant additional financial incentives and benefits for solar battery owners, which can complement federal tax credits such as the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) that offers a 30% credit on battery costs if certain conditions are met.
In conclusion, many utilities offer specialized programs that provide additional incentives and payments to solar battery owners, especially when customers allow the utility to use their stored energy to help manage grid demand and integrate renewable energy more effectively. These programs vary by region but can substantially reduce the cost and improve the value proposition of installing solar battery storage systems.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-utility-specific-programs-that-offer-additional-incentives-for-solar-batteries/
