Learn how the latest SGIP changes could benefit you
UPDATED: 4/15/2024
The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) is one of California’s best incentives for pairing a solar battery with a solar panel system.
In 2020, the SGIP went through enormous changes to focus more on energy storage and provide vulnerable residents with a better energy solution.
What is the Self-Generation Incentive Program?
The SGIP aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provides rebates for homeowners and businesses that install batteries.
The upfront rebate is based on a tiered rate structure. The sooner you apply, the better the rebate will be because the incentive amount decreases as more batteries are installed.
Your rebate depends not only on when you apply but also on the kind of project and which utility territory it is located in.
In response to the rampant wildfires and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), the CPUC approved additional funding through the Equity Resiliency Budget and extended it to 2024.
Easier Application Process
Recent updates have made it easier for homeowners to apply for solar battery rebates. Before, all of the funds became available on a single day.
These incentives were quickly taken by industrial energy storage projects, preventing residential homeowners from using them for their solar batteries.
The new change marks 75% of the program's funds for energy storage, 15% of which will be saved for homeowners adding batteries to their solar panels.
The funds will not be released on a single day but will be available throughout the year, allowing installers to tell their clients exactly how much of the rebate is available before committing to an installation.
Higher Incentives
PG&E, SCE, SoCalGas, SDG&E, and the Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE) are all SGIP Program Administrators who distribute the incentives to applicants.
The SGIP rebate for battery storage is divided into five project types, each with its incentive rate, depending on the program’s administrator.
Residential customers can receive up to $150 per kilowatt hour (kWh) of energy storage they install, meaning a 10 kWh solar battery would qualify for a $1,500 rebate.
You can also combine your incentive with the 30 percent Federal Investment Tax Credit to get even further savings. The value of the kWh savings depends on the size of the battery you purchase and will decrease as more batteries are installed, so you will save more the earlier you install.
Are You Ready to Embrace Solar Battery Backup?
Delaying your solar battery installation could mean missing out on significant savings. With summer heat increasing energy demands and the risk of power outages, installing solar battery backups is crucial.
Take advantage of California's SGIP to improve your energy resilience and sustainability. With higher incentives and easier application processes, residents and businesses can smoothly integrate solar battery backups, enhancing energy security and reducing dependence on the grid.
Investing in a solar battery backup system offers many long-term benefits, making it a smart choice for your property. As a SunPower Master Dealer, Green Convergence is dedicated to meeting your energy needs. Contact us to start your solar battery project today.
