Discover How California’s SGIP Rebate Program
Can Help You Save on Battery Storage
If you’re a California property-owner, particularly if you’re living in a high-risk fire zone, the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) is a game-changer for you. This program can offer rebates that cover up to 100% of the cost for installing battery storage systems. Whether you’re adding battery storage to your solar setup or using it independently, it’s a reliable way to keep your home powered during outages and manage your electricity expenses more effectively. Energy and Financial Consulting is here to guide you through every step of your journey toward clean, sustainable energy that can be stored at your property.
What’s the SGIP All About?
Managed by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) is designed to help homeowners with the financial burden of installing battery storage systems. The rebate covers both the purchase and installation costs. You don’t need to have solar panels to qualify for this rebate, but combining battery storage with solar panels can offer you extra advantages. Ask us about adding storage to your solar system.
Why California is Offering These Generous Rebates?
Battery storage isn’t just a luxury—it’s crucial for those who experience frequent power outages, need electricity for essential medical devices, or rely on electric pumps for water. During extreme weather events and high fire risk periods, these systems play a vital role in stabilizing the power grid. For instance, during the intense heatwave of September 2022, residential battery systems provided critical support that helped avert blackouts.
SGIP Rebate Tiers:
The SGIP program features three levels of rebates, depending on your situation:
- General Market Rebate: $150 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), covering roughly 15% of your project cost.
- Equity Rebate: $850 per kWh, covering approximately 85% of your project cost.
- Equity Resilience Rebate: $1,000 per kWh, potentially covering 100% of your project cost.
Who Can Get These Rebates?
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General Market Rebate: Available to residential customers of:
- Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E)
- Southern California Edison (SCE)
- Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas)
- San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E)
- Equity Rebate: For those who:
- Reside in qualifying low-income single-family or multifamily housing
- Have participated in affordable solar programs like SASH, DAC-SASH, SOMAH, or MASH
- Live in California Indian Country
- Equity Resilience Rebate: For those who:
- Live in Tier 2 or 3 fire zones or have faced multiple Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS)
- Are enrolled in a Medical Baseline Program
- Rely on electric pumps for water
- Have previously qualified for affordable solar programs
How to Apply for Your Rebate
Here’s a step-by-step guide to claiming your SGIP rebate:
- Submit a Reservation Request here: Act quickly, as funding is limited.
- Receive a Reservation Letter: This letter confirms your rebate reservation.
- Install Your Battery Storage System: Complete the installation process.
- Submit an Incentive Claim Form: Use this form to request your rebate.
- Inspection: An administrator may inspect your installation.
- Receive Your Rebate: Once approved, your rebate payment will be processed.
Combine SGIP with Federal Tax Credits for Extra Savings
Maximize your savings by combining the SGIP rebate with the 30% federal tax credit for battery storage. The federal tax credit applies to the cost remaining after the SGIP rebate. For instance, if your battery storage project costs $10,000 and you get a $1,500 SGIP rebate, the federal tax credit would apply to the remaining $8,500.
Example Calculation:
- Customer A:
- Total Cost: $10,000
- SGIP Rebate: $1,500
- Cost After SGIP Rebate: $8,500
- Federal Tax Credit: $2,550
- Net Cost After All Incentives: $5,950
- Customer B:
- Total Cost: $10,000
- SGIP Rebate: $8,500
- Cost After SGIP Rebate: $1,500
- Federal Tax Credit: $450
- Net Cost After All Incentives: $1,050
Summary
The SGIP program offers significant rebates for battery storage installations, making it an excellent opportunity to enhance your energy security and contribute to a more stable power grid. Be sure to apply early to secure your rebate, and consult with battery storage experts to guide you through the process.
Get started today by comparing quotes from approved battery installers through the solar.com marketplace, powered by Electrum.
FAQs
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Is there a government rebate for solar batteries? Yes, California’s SGIP provides rebates ranging from $150 to $1,000 per kWh of installed battery storage. You can also combine this with a 30% federal tax credit.
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Can renters qualify for the SGIP battery storage rebate? Absolutely. Renters can apply with their landlord’s assistance if the property qualifies.
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Do I need solar panels to qualify for the SGIP battery rebate? No, you don’t need solar panels to qualify, though pairing them with battery storage can offer additional benefits.