In an effort to grow the adoption of renewable energy solutions in Connecticut, the state’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) has recently updated its Energy Storage Solutions program. These changes are poised to have a big impact on CT’s residential solar market, driving an increase in solar appointments and installations.
Under PURA’s program expansion, Connecticut’s residential customers can now get up to $16,000 in upfront incentives for installing battery storage systems alongside their solar panels. This is quite a leap from the previous maximum of $7,500. Customers will also receive performance-based incentives after each summer and winter.
Moreover, the program has introduced enhanced benefits for low-income customers and residents of underserved communities, ensuring that the program enables inclusive access to clean energy generation.
Low-income customers are now eligible for an increased upfront incentive of $600 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), up from $400/kWh. Those residing in underserved communities will see their upfront incentive rise to $450/kWh from the previous $300/kWh. These adjustments are designed to address and reduce the financial barriers that have historically limited the adoption of renewable energy technologies in these communities.
Source: Energy Storage Solutions
With these new incentives in place, we can expect to see more leads in total, as well as more leads coming from a broader range of demographics. This year is bound to see a surge in interest among homeowners who had previously been deterred by the high price tag that comes with solar + battery storage systems.
For contractors, this means not only an increase in customer volume, but also larger installations. The financial incentives are likely to encourage homeowners to invest in more comprehensive systems, thereby boosting earnings per install.
Grid Freedom stands ready to help contractors seize this opportunity. By connecting contractors with the most promising customers in Connecticut’s residential market, Grid Freedom streamlines the process of identifying and securing projects. This service is invaluable for contractors looking to maximize their revenue in an increasingly competitive market.
Contractors can get matched with homeowners who are pre-screened and ready to get the ball rolling on their rooftop systems. This means installers get constant access to a pool of customers who are informed, interested, and financially incentivized to pursue solar installations. Our agency delivers pre-set solar appointments with each of these leads, making it easy to fill the month’s calendar with sales meetings.