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As California strives for 100% clean energy by 2045, more solar system homeowners are considering adding solar energy storage. By storing excess solar energy during the day, homeowners can use that power at night or during high-demand times instead of relying on the utility company. According to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), using solar panels alone can save customers around $100 per month, while those with storage can save up to $140 per month. The savings are projected to offset the solar and storage system costs within seven years.
Let's explore the benefits of solar energy storage for California homeowners and how it can provide increased energy independence and emergency backup power.
Benefits of Incorporating Solar Battery Storage into CA Solar Energy Systems
Energy Independence and Reduced Grid Reliance
Integrating energy storage systems allows surplus energy to be stored in high-capacity lithium batteries, promoting true energy independence by reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.
For instance, if your system generates 10 kWh daily but usage is a mere 5 kWh, storing the extra 5 kWh in batteries enables you to utilize it later and reduces reliance on utility providers such as PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E, thus lowering overall energy expenses.
Emergency Backup Power
If the grid goes down, a resident of the Greater Coachella Valley or Greater Fresno can still have power if energy (kWh) is produced and your battery bank is charged. Battery storage systems are vital during natural disasters or power shut-offs.
Do you remember the horrible 2020 California wildfires? Power outages lasted for weeks, causing distress. But homeowners with backup power could keep their homes illuminated, refrigerators running, and devices charged.
Lower Electricity Bills
Solar power and energy storage are great ways to reduce hefty energy bills. A Southern California homeowner installed a 5 kW solar system with energy storage, resulting in a 90% reduction in energy bills by using stored solar energy during peak hours when utility rates are highest.
Boosted Energy Efficiency
Energy storage offers additional flexibility in energy usage, enabling generated energy consumption at different times of the day. An excellent energy storage system, in turn, heightens the efficiency and resilience of energy systems and provides an improved power quality that aligns supply and demand.
Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) for Energy Storage Systems BY CPUC
The California Public Utilities Commission initiated the SGIP program to offer a massive REBATE as reimbursement for battery storage for solar systems on residential and non-residential properties.
A single-family may receive an $850/kWh rebate under the Equity Category, while a small business may receive $1,000/kWh in the Equity Resilience Category. Both SGIP rebate categories can potentially offset 85% and 100% energy storage costs, respectively.
Who can benefit?
All CA residents, including those in the Greater Coachella Valley and Fresno Areas
Low-income and medically vulnerable homeowners
A government agency, educational institution, non-profit, or small business (grocery store, supermarket, etc.)
Customers of investor-owned utilities (IOUs)
High fire-threat area or multiple Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) communities
Critical facilities for PSPS or wildfire resilience
Community Choice Aggregators (CCAs)
Customers must meet various criteria to be eligible for SGIP rebates. Please check the Brochures and Fact Sheets for detailed information about eligibility, and contact your Program Administrator with questions. You can find more information on the website here.
Factors Affecting the Installation of Solar Energy and Storage Backup Systems in CA Homes
Home energy consumption (kWh)
Installed solar system size
Battery capacity (Ah)
Battery type (lead acid or high-efficiency lithium batteries)
Climate and weather conditions
Rebates and incentives
High-efficiency lithium batteries are better suited for CA residential solar energy storage systems due to their efficiency, durability, and ability to adjust to the wide temperature variance in the State.
Will I still have to pay for electricity if I have a solar energy storage system?
The answer is not straightforward; it depends on the size and capacity of the solar energy system, the household electrical load, and local regulations.
Say a family of four lives in a home with a 7 kW solar panel system and battery storage. Their solar panels generate 35 kWh daily, enough to power their home during the day and charge the battery. During peak hours, the battery discharge may not provide enough electricity to fully power the house, so they may need to draw grid electricity. If they use around 40 kWh daily, they would pay the utility for the difference between what their system produces and what they need - 5 kWh.
How Can a Solar Contractor Assist in Choosing the Right Solar Energy Storage System?
We at helpPlanet Solar, a top-rated solar contractor in California, helps homeowners in the Coachella Valley and Greater Fresno Area select the perfect solar energy storage system by evaluating their energy usage (kWh), budget, and peak demand. We consider the solar panel size, type, energy independence, and resilience goals during power outages.
We offer authentic support and expert installation services for solar energy storage systems in California to fully tap into the 100% solar potential with the best ROI. Don't miss out on the benefits of solar energy storage! Get started by scheduling an appointment with Planet Solar.
Planet Solar
If you have any questions about these benefits, call one of our solar experts. We are ready to help you analyze your home, consumption, and situation. We are happy to provide all the information you will need to make an informed decision on whether or not solar is right for you.
We have two locations ready to serve you. If you are in the Greater Coachella Valley area from Palm Springs to Blythe, call us at (760) 341-1413. Our second location is in the Central Valley: in the Greater Fresno Area, call us at (559) 228-9245.
Since 2007, Planet Solar has been a pioneer in the solar panel and home battery installation industry. Our team comprises seasoned solar professionals with 30+ years in the home improvement, energy conservation and technical fields. Our company prides itself on our knowledgeable, friendly, and professional solar consultants, who will help you with all your solar needs. In Planet Solar, you have found a solar installer you can trust.
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