San Francisco Solar + Battery Decision Pack
Solar PanelsBattery Storage
What this pack covers
This Decision Pack covers a coordinated Solar Panels and Battery Storage project in San Francisco, CA.
It assembles cost ranges, incentive eligibility, permit requirements, and the questions to ask before signing a contract. Every dollar figure and incentive shown is dated and sourced.
Your goal in one sentence
Plan a San Francisco solar plus battery install that models NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) self-consumption with neighborhood-microclimate production derate, verifies current SGIP budget status (only RSSE accepts new applications as of 2026 and that budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist), sequences PG&E PTO plus SF DBI permits plus structural review for older Victorian or Edwardian roofs, and is honest about the post-§25D federal credit landscape.
Recommended sequence
- Solar Panels — No prerequisites within this pack.
- Battery Storage — No prerequisites within this pack.
Who to contact
| Who | Why | What to ask for |
|---|---|---|
| Solar + battery installer | Models solar production, battery behavior, NEM 3.0 economics, backup loads, and EV charging impact. | Solar scenario, battery scenario, future load model, backup-loads plan, EV charging plan. |
Opening script to send contractors
Hi, I'm in San Francisco, CA and planning a project that includes Solar Panels, Battery Storage. I am looking for a quote that includes: 1. Solar Panels 2. Battery Storage Please tell me: - Will you perform a formal load calculation (Manual J for HVAC, Article 220 for electrical)? - Are you familiar with San Francisco permits and any local rebate programs? - Can you give line-item pricing and separate confirmed incentives from assumed incentives? - Who handles permits, inspections, and rebate paperwork?
Technical basics in plain English
Panel size: 100A, 125A, 150A, 200A
Your electrical panel is the main entry point for electricity into your house. The 'A' means amps. More amps means more total electrical capacity. 100A is older and may not support adding heat pump + water heater + EV charger together without an upgrade or smart load management. 125A/150A is middle ground; could work with efficient equipment and a real load calculation. 200A is usually the cleanest path, but not guaranteed.
Ask: What is my panel size, and can you show me the load calculation that proves this setup is safe?
Load calculation
A load calculation is not the same as guessing. It is a code-based calculation that estimates whether your panel and service can safely carry all major electrical loads. A qualified electrician or contractor should be able to explain whether you need a panel upgrade, a service upgrade, or smart load management instead.
Ask: Are you doing a formal electrical load calculation, or just eyeballing the panel?
Smart load management
Smart load management lets devices avoid running at full power at the same time. For example, the EV charger may slow down while the heat pump or water heater is running. This can sometimes avoid an expensive panel or service upgrade.
Ask: Can smart load management avoid a service upgrade while still supporting future loads?
Battery backup: whole-home vs essential-loads
Whole-home backup tries to power almost everything during an outage. Essential-loads backup powers selected circuits (refrigerator, internet, lights, some outlets). Whole-home backup costs more and drains batteries faster. Essential-loads backup is usually more economical.
Ask: Are you quoting whole-home backup or essential-loads backup? Which specific circuits will be backed up?
Specific questions to ask
Questions for solar + battery installers
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| How will you size the solar array for our future electric load (heat pump HVAC, EV, water heater)? | We model expected future usage including planned heat pump, EV miles, and water heater, then size the array to offset that load under NEM 3.0 export economics. | We size the system from last year's utility bill only. |
| How does NEM 3.0 change the economics versus older interconnections? | NEM 3.0 cut export compensation by ~75 percent versus NEM 2.0, which makes battery storage important for self-consumption. We model expected savings under NEM 3.0 specifically. | NEM 3.0 is the same as NEM 2.0 economically. |
| Is my roof suitable for solar, and what is its remaining lifetime? | We inspect the roof condition, slope, orientation, and shade pattern; we recommend roof replacement first if the roof is near end of life. | Any roof works. |
| Which panel and inverter brands do you recommend, and why? | We name the specific panel model (wattage, efficiency, temperature coefficient, degradation curve) and inverter brand (string vs microinverter), explain the tradeoffs for our roof, and provide the manufacturer datasheets. | We use whatever is cheapest in stock this month. |
| Will the array use string inverters, microinverters, or DC optimizers, and why? | We choose based on roof shading patterns and orientation: microinverters or optimizers for shaded or multi-orientation roofs, string inverters for unshaded uniform arrays. We explain the cost and monitoring tradeoff. | Microinverters are always best. |
| What does the shade analysis show for our roof across the year? | We run a shade analysis tool (HelioScope, Aurora, or similar) using a site survey and roof imagery, and we share the annual production estimate per panel with shade losses called out. | Shade is not significant. |
| Do you offer a production guarantee, and how is it enforced? | We offer an annual production guarantee in kWh based on the design model, and we explain the remediation path (true-up payment or system correction) if actual production falls below the threshold. | Production guarantees are a marketing gimmick. |
| What monitoring platform comes with the system, and are there subscription fees? | We name the monitoring platform (Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge mySolarEdge, or similar), describe what data is visible per panel or per string, and disclose any optional or recurring fees. | Monitoring is included; do not worry about the details. |
| If we add a battery later, can we still apply for SGIP at that time? | Yes — SGIP applications are tied to the battery install, not the solar install. As of 2026, only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open to new applications, and that budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition; ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications. We verify current SGIP budget status at selfgenca.com when the battery is added and explain that pre-approval is required before equipment is delivered. | SGIP only counts if solar and battery are installed together. |
| Who handles the PG&E interconnection paperwork, and what is the typical timeline? | We submit the PG&E interconnection application on your behalf, file the city permits, and coordinate Permission to Operate (PTO). Typical PG&E PTO timelines range from 2 to 6 weeks after the city sign-off; we document the expected window in the quote. | Interconnection happens automatically. |
| What is your post-install commissioning checklist? | Commissioning includes verifying each panel reports correctly in the monitoring platform, checking inverter firmware, confirming production matches the design model on a clear day, and walking us through reading the monitoring app. | We turn it on and leave. |
| How will you confirm the roof structure supports the array? | We perform a structural assessment including rafter sizing, spacing, and condition; for older or unusual roofs we may engage a licensed structural engineer to provide a letter for the permit submittal. | Roofs always handle solar. |
| How will the array meet California fire-setback rules? | We design the array to meet the California Residential Code fire access pathway requirements: ridge setbacks, hip-to-eave pathways, and emergency egress clearances, and we document compliance in the permit submittal. | Fire setbacks are optional. |
| What ongoing maintenance does the system need? | Typical maintenance is light: annual visual inspection, occasional rinse if local dust or pollen reduces production, and inverter firmware updates pushed by the manufacturer. We explain the warranty implications of skipping recommended maintenance. | Solar is install-and-forget; no maintenance ever. |
| What warranties cover the panels, inverter, and labor? | Panels typically carry a 25 year product warranty plus a 25 year linear production warranty; inverters carry 10 to 12 years standard (extendable); we provide a 5 to 10 year labor warranty separately. We document what voids each. | Lifetime warranty on everything. |
| How do you size and model production for an SF home given foggy summer mornings in the Sunset or Outer Richmond? | We model production with PVsyst or HelioScope using NREL TMY3 data for the nearest SF weather station, then apply a microclimate derate based on neighborhood (Sunset and Outer Richmond run 5-10 percent below Mission or Bernal). We give you a 12-month production model with monthly breakdown and share it. We do not promise specific kWh production; we provide a model with explicit inputs you can verify. | SF gets the same production as San Jose. |
| How does NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) affect the export economics for a typical SF rooftop? | NEM 3.0 took effect April 15, 2023 for new PG&E interconnections. Export compensation is set by the hourly Avoided Cost Calculator (ACC) and is materially lower than NEM 2.0, especially during midday hours. A solar-only system with limited self-consumption has a much longer payback than under NEM 2.0. We model self-consumption with and without battery so you see the difference, and we share the ACC export-price hourly schedule we used. | NEM 3.0 is fine; you'll still net to zero on your bill. |
| Will you provide a written production guarantee, and what does it actually cover? | A production guarantee specifies a minimum kWh / year over a defined period (often 5-10 years) and a remedy if measured production falls below it (cash refund or system makeup). We share the contract language and the monitoring data source (Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge MyEdge, SunPower MySunPower). We do not promise specific dollars; we promise kWh tied to the modeled output minus a tolerance. | Production guarantees are not necessary; the system will work. |
| Microinverter (Enphase IQ8) vs string inverter (SolarEdge) — which fits a typical SF rooftop? | SF rooftops often have multiple roof planes, dormers, and shading from neighboring buildings or chimneys, which favors microinverters or DC optimizers because each panel can operate independently. Enphase IQ8 series is the current default for residential. SolarEdge with optimizers is a reasonable alternative. String-only (no per-panel electronics) is rarely the right answer in SF because of shading variability. We share the design rationale. | String inverter is always cheapest; ignore shading. |
| My roof is over 20 years old. Should I re-roof before installing solar? | Removing and reinstalling solar later costs roughly $2,500-$5,000 depending on system size. If the roof has under 10 years of remaining life it is usually cheaper to re-roof first. We assess the roof at the site visit and share the remaining-life estimate plus the re-roof-first vs install-now math. We do not push you to install on a roof we would not install on at our own home. | Old roofs are fine; just install on top. |
| How do you handle structural review for an older SF Victorian or Edwardian roof? | For older roof framing we engage a structural engineer to verify the attachment plan meets the manufacturer specification and current CRC structural code. The review covers rafter sizing, attachment fastener pull-out, and snow / wind load (SF is low snow but coastal wind load matters in the Sunset and Outer Richmond). We share the stamped review as part of the SF DBI submission. | Structural review is overkill in SF. |
| How do you handle fire setback requirements (CRC R327) on the roof layout? | California CRC R327 sets fire access pathway requirements for rooftop PV: typically a 36-inch pathway along the ridge and to vents and chimneys, plus access from the roof edge. SF adopts current CRC. We design the array within the setback envelope, share the layout drawing, and confirm it meets R327 before the SF DBI inspector arrives. We do not push the homeowner toward a layout that fails setback. | Fire setback rules are advisory; ignore them on small roofs. |
| What are the warranty terms on panels, inverter, and labor — and what voids each? | Tier-1 panels typically carry a 25 year product warranty plus a linear production warranty (typically 85-92 percent of nameplate at year 25). Microinverters (Enphase IQ8) carry 25 years; string inverters (SolarEdge) carry 10-12 years extendable. Our install labor warranty is separate (typically 5-10 years). We share each in writing and document what voids coverage (non-authorized servicing, modifications, off-spec environmental exposure). | All warranties are lifetime. |
| How do you analyze shading from neighboring buildings and trees, and can a property easement protect against future shading? | We model shading with HelioScope or Aurora using surrounding 3D massing for buildings and trees and run an 8760-hour analysis. For dense SF neighborhoods we model neighbor structures explicitly. The California Solar Shade Control Act (Solar Rights Act) provides some protection against new shading from neighbor trees but not from new construction. We share the shade analysis and explain the easement option separately if it matters to the homeowner. | Shading is not a real issue; modern panels work in shade. |
| What soiling derate do you assume for an SF install, and does coastal salt air matter? | Standard residential soiling derate is 2-5 percent annually; SF coastal locations (Outer Sunset, Outer Richmond) can see higher salt deposition that benefits from periodic rinse. We document the soiling assumption in the production model. We do not promise specific output; we share the inputs so you can compare against actual monitoring after install. | Soiling is not a real issue. |
| What does monitoring and commissioning look like at startup? | Commissioning includes panel-level production verification (Enphase Enlighten or SolarEdge MyEdge), inverter ground-fault test, AC disconnect labeling, and a startup report. Monitoring goes through the manufacturer app; we set up notifications for any per-panel underperformance flag. The commissioning report goes to you in writing. | Commissioning is a buzzword; the system just turns on. |
| What does the PG&E interconnection process look like, and how long does PTO take? | We submit the interconnection application to PG&E with the design package after SF DBI permit issuance. PG&E reviews, issues an agreement (Net Billing Tariff under NEM 3.0), and after final SF DBI inspection sends a Permission to Operate (PTO) letter. PTO typically lands 2-6 weeks after final inspection in current PG&E queue. We track the application and email status updates. | PG&E PTO is automatic; no tracking needed. |
| If I am planning to add HP HVAC, HPWH, and an EV, how does that change the solar sizing? | We model the future-load scenario (HP HVAC kWh from Manual J, HPWH typical annual kWh, EV miles plus efficiency) and add it to the present-day usage baseline. Sizing the array for present-day usage only underestimates future need; the resulting underbuild costs more to add later because of incremental permit and labor costs. We share both sizing scenarios. | Size for what you use today; do not worry about future loads. |
| Which circuits will be backed up during an outage, and for how long? | We provide a backup-loads list (refrigerator, internet, lights, HVAC controls, well pump if any), estimate runtime in hours at typical and worst-case usage, and explain whether whole-home or essential-loads backup is recommended. | The battery powers the house. |
| Does my install qualify for SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program), and at what tier? | We verify current SGIP budget status before quoting: as of December 31, 2025 the ratepayer-funded General Market, Equity, and Equity Resiliency budgets are closed to new applications, and only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open — and that budget is fully reserved with new applications served via an attrition-based waitlist (selfgenca.com). We document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate, and we explain that pre-approval is required before equipment is delivered. | SGIP always pays out the maximum amount. |
| What is the battery's usable kWh and continuous inverter power, and how do they relate? | We specify both: kWh determines how long the backup lasts; the inverter's continuous AC output determines what can run at once (refrigerator + lights + maybe HVAC vs everything). | kWh is the only number that matters. |
| Is the battery AC-coupled or DC-coupled with the solar array, and why? | AC-coupled batteries use a separate inverter and are easier to retrofit to existing solar. DC-coupled batteries share an inverter with new solar and are typically more efficient end-to-end. We choose based on whether the solar array is new or existing. | Coupling does not matter. |
| Can we add more battery capacity later, and what are the limits? | Most modern systems support stacking additional units up to a vendor-specified maximum. We document the maximum stack today, what is needed to add capacity later (matching firmware, software update, possible electrical re-work), and whether SGIP can be applied to expansion units. | Buy the biggest battery today; expansion is impossible. |
| What depth-of-discharge limit does the battery use, and how does that affect usable kWh? | We explain the nameplate kWh vs usable kWh: modern LFP batteries reserve very little for cycle life (often 95 to 100 percent of nameplate is usable); older chemistries reserve 10 to 20 percent. We quote usable kWh in the proposal so you can compare like-for-like. | Nameplate kWh is the usable kWh. |
| What is the manufacturer warranty on the battery, and what limits it? | Most residential batteries carry a 10 to 12 year warranty, often paired with a cycle count (e.g. 6,000 to 10,000 cycles) or throughput limit (e.g. 37.8 MWh) - whichever comes first. We provide the spec sheet and explain what voids coverage. | Lifetime warranty; no fine print. |
| Are time-of-use arbitrage cycles counted against the warranty? | Yes. Every charge-discharge cycle counts toward the throughput limit; aggressive daily TOU arbitrage may shorten the years-based warranty window. We model expected cycles per year for your usage pattern. | Cycling does not count against the warranty. |
| How will the battery shift load away from PG&E peak hours? | We program the battery to charge from solar during midday and discharge during the PG&E EV2-A or E-ELEC peak window (typically 4-9pm), saving you the peak-period delta. We tune the schedule for your actual usage and rate plan. | The battery charges and discharges whenever. |
| How does NEM 3.0 change the battery payback? | Under NEM 3.0, export compensation dropped by roughly 75 percent, so self-consumption (using your solar via the battery instead of exporting) is now the primary battery economic driver. We model expected savings under NEM 3.0 with your specific rate plan. | NEM 3.0 has no effect on battery payback. |
| How will the install meet CRC 1207 / R327 fire-setback rules for energy storage? | We design the install per California Residential Code R327 (formerly section 1207): separation from windows, doors, openings into the dwelling, and other batteries; smoke and heat detectors per code; and an exterior wall location where possible. We document compliance in the permit submittal. | Fire setbacks are optional. |
| What is your post-install commissioning checklist? | Commissioning includes verifying battery state-of-charge reporting, testing backup-mode transfer with a simulated outage, walking through the app for backup-only vs TOU modes, and confirming the SGIP system performance metering is functioning if SGIP is part of the project. | We turn it on and leave. |
| Are you an installer certified by the battery manufacturer? | Yes. We provide our certification number for the specific battery brand (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ, LG Chem RESU, FranklinWH, etc.); certification is typically required to preserve full warranty coverage. | Certification does not matter for batteries. |
| Who handles the PG&E interconnection update for the new battery? | We submit the updated PG&E interconnection paperwork to add the battery to your existing or new solar interconnection, and we obtain the updated Permission to Operate before energizing. | PG&E interconnection happens automatically. |
| What panel-side breaker work or interconnection method does the battery require? | We confirm whether the battery interconnects via a back-fed breaker (with sum-of-breakers check per NEC 705.12), a supply-side tap, or a dedicated battery sub-panel; we show the calculation on the permit drawings. | Any spare slot will work. |
| How does SGIP apply for a residential battery in PG&E territory (SF)? | SGIP is administered by PG&E in SF. Budget status as of 2026: per the SGIP program administrators, the ratepayer-funded General Market (around $150/kWh), Equity (around $850/kWh for income-qualified customers at or below 80 percent AMI or in CalEnviroScreen Disadvantaged Communities), and Equity Resiliency (around $1,000/kWh for customers also meeting Medical Baseline, Tier 3-4 High Fire Threat District, or DAC criteria) budgets are no longer accepting new applications. Only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open to new applications — and that budget is fully reserved as of December 31, 2025; new RSSE applications go to a waitlist served through attrition of cancelled projects. RSSE rates were around $1,100/kWh storage plus around $3,100/kW solar, targeted at income-qualified solar-plus-battery customers. Pre-approval is required before installation; we verify current budget status at selfgenca.com and your administrator, reserve through the appropriate path, and document the reservation number (or waitlist position) in the proposal. We confirm only what we have reserved; we do not assume eligibility. | You will receive SGIP for the whole battery cost. |
| How does the battery improve solar payback under NEM 3.0 in San Francisco? | Under NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff), exporting to the grid pays at the hourly Avoided Cost Calculator rate, which is materially lower than NEM 2.0 retail rates. A battery stores midday solar for use during the late-afternoon peak window, which is the highest-rate window on PG&E EV2-A and E-ELEC. We model self-consumption ratio (typically 60-80 percent with battery vs 30-50 percent solar-only on a typical SF roof) and share the year-1 cost comparison. | Adding a battery always cuts your bill in half. |
| Should the battery be AC-coupled or DC-coupled with the solar array? | AC-coupling (Tesla Powerwall 3 with its integrated hybrid inverter, Enphase IQ Battery 5P, FranklinWH aPower) lets the battery and solar each operate independently and works well for adding battery to an existing solar install. DC-coupling (a hybrid inverter shared between PV and battery, often SolarEdge or SMA) is more efficient when installing solar and battery together. We share the topology choice and the round-trip efficiency assumption. For an existing solar retrofit, AC-coupling is usually the path; for a fresh install, either can work. | AC vs DC does not matter. |
| What is a realistic backup-loads list for a typical SF house during a multi-hour outage? | We build the backup list with you. Typical SF priorities: refrigerator and freezer (compressor cycling), interior lighting on a few key circuits, Wi-Fi and modem, medical equipment if any, a few outlets for phone charging, and selective EV slow-charging at Level 1 if range matters. We exclude high-draw loads (HP HVAC compressor, electric oven, EV Level 2) from full-time backup unless you are sizing for it. We share the load list with each circuit's expected wattage. | Backup will cover everything in the house for a week. |
| Should I get 1, 2, or 3 batteries (5-30 kWh)? | Sizing follows backup goals (essentials only, partial home, whole home) and self-consumption goals (NEM 3.0 arbitrage on TOU). For SF essentials-only plus modest TOU arbitrage, one Powerwall 3 (13.5 kWh) or one Enphase IQ Battery 5P (5 kWh) is typical. For whole-home backup with HP HVAC and EV consideration, two or three units are common. We model both target scenarios and share the kWh-per-hour drawdown estimate for each. | Buy as many as you can fit. |
| Critical-loads sub-panel vs whole-house backup — which fits an older SF house? | Older SF houses with 100A panels and limited bus capacity usually do better with a critical-loads sub-panel: only the listed backup circuits move to the sub-panel and ride the battery during an outage. Whole-house backup requires either a larger battery (multiple units) or a smart panel that can shed loads dynamically (Span, Lumin). We share the cost delta and the wiring impact. | Whole-house backup is always better. |
| What is the usable kWh (depth of discharge), and how does LFP chemistry affect that? | Modern residential batteries are nearly all LFP (lithium iron phosphate) chemistry, with usable depth of discharge at 95-100 percent of nameplate. Older NMC residential batteries (Powerwall 2 era) ran 90 percent usable. Quote should state nameplate kWh AND usable kWh AND the manufacturer's listed continuous AC output (Powerwall 3 is 13.5 kWh nameplate, 13.5 usable, 11.5 kW continuous AC). We document all three in the proposal. | Nameplate is what you can use. |
| Battery warranty: years, cycles, AND throughput. What do those mean? | A complete warranty has three dimensions. Years (typically 10) covers calendar age. Cycles (often 'unlimited' or 6,000+) covers number of full charge-discharge cycles. Throughput (typically 37 MWh for Powerwall 3) caps lifetime energy delivered. The warranty pays when whichever limit is reached first. We share the warranty doc and explain which limit your usage pattern hits first. | Battery warranty is 10 years; nothing else matters. |
| How long can the battery run my backup loads during an outage? | Runtime = usable kWh / continuous load (in kW). A 13.5 kWh battery running a 1 kW backup load runs 13.5 hours theoretical (less round-trip efficiency). If solar is producing during a daytime outage, the battery recharges via PV passthrough if the inverter supports island mode. We share the runtime estimate for your modeled backup-loads list under both grid-down-with-PV and grid-down-no-PV scenarios. | The battery lasts forever during an outage. |
| What does the PG&E interconnection process look like for a battery add to an existing solar install? | Adding a battery to an existing NEM 2.0 solar install triggers a NEM 3.0 transition only if the system size increases beyond a small threshold; we confirm the threshold against current PG&E rules and document the agreement type in the proposal. For fresh installs the agreement is the Net Billing Tariff. PG&E updates the meter and issues a revised PTO after final SF DBI inspection. | Adding a battery never affects your NEM agreement. |
| What UL certifications should the battery and the install meet? | Residential batteries should be UL 9540 listed (system certification) and the cells should pass UL 9540A (large-scale fire test) testing. We confirm the chosen battery's UL listings before quoting and share the documentation. SF DBI inspectors usually verify the UL listing as part of the permit. We do not install equipment that is not UL 9540 listed. | UL listings are paperwork; they do not matter. |
| Tesla Powerwall 3, Enphase IQ Battery 5P, FranklinWH, LG Energy Solution RESU — which fits an SF install? | Powerwall 3 (13.5 kWh, 11.5 kW continuous AC, integrated hybrid inverter, supports up to 4 stacked units) suits whole-home backup with high continuous load. Enphase IQ Battery 5P (5 kWh modular, pairs with IQ8 microinverters) suits incremental add-on. FranklinWH aPower (15 kWh, modular up to 3 units, full whole-home backup) is a competitive whole-home alternative. LG RESU is less common in SF post-2024 due to LG's pivot to commercial. We share the comparison; brand choice depends on goals. | Tesla is the only option. |
| How do I monitor the battery, and what app or dashboard comes with it? | Each manufacturer has its own app: Tesla app for Powerwall, Enphase Enlighten for IQ Battery, FranklinWH app for aPower. Functions include state of charge, real-time power flow (solar / grid / battery / loads), backup-mode toggle, and TOU schedule. We set up the app on your phone at commissioning and confirm push notifications for outage start and end. | Monitoring is included automatically; do not worry about it. |
| What does battery commissioning look like at startup? | Commissioning includes inverter firmware update, AC and DC voltage checks, ground-fault test, backup-loads selection (which circuits ride the battery), TOU schedule setup, app onboarding, and a test outage (we open the grid-side disconnect and confirm the battery seamlessly carries the backup loads). We share a one-page commissioning report. | Commissioning is a buzzword; the system works. |
Questions for electricians
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| How does the inverter sizing comply with NEC 690 PV and 705.12 interconnection? | NEC 690 covers PV system installation; NEC 705.12 sets the 120 percent rule for combined inverter sources plus main breaker against the busbar rating. We share the bus calculation and confirm whether a sub-panel, supply-side connection, or load-side tap is the right interconnection method for your existing panel. Older SF panels often need either a sub-panel or a smart panel as part of the install. | NEC 705.12 is optional. |
| How do NEC Article 706 (ESS) and 705.12 (interconnection) apply? | NEC 706 covers energy storage system installation: disconnect, signage, working clearance. NEC 705.12 applies to the interconnection point on the existing panel; combined inverter sources must satisfy the 120 percent rule against the busbar. We share the bus calc, confirm the disconnect location meets the AHJ requirement (within sight or otherwise per code), and document the labeling per 706.21. | NEC 706 does not really apply to residential. |
| How does NEC Article 250 grounding apply to the ESS install? | The battery's AC output ties into the existing grounding electrode system at the main panel; we verify the existing grounding electrode meets NEC 250 (ground rod, water pipe bond, ufer if present) and upgrade if not. For wall-mounted batteries we follow the manufacturer's bonding instructions for the enclosure. We document the grounding upgrade as a line item if required. | Existing grounding is fine; nothing to check. |
General questions for every contractor
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| Does the federal Section 25D residential clean energy credit apply to my installation? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for the 30 percent §25D credit. | You will receive the 30 percent federal credit on your taxes. |
| Does TECH Clean California currently offer a solar incentive? | TECH Clean California primarily targets heat pump HVAC and heat pump water heaters, not standalone solar. We verify current TECH program scope at techcleanca.com before citing any incentive. | TECH covers solar; assume the rebate applies. |
| Are BayREN Home+ rebates available for our solar or solar plus battery project? | BayREN Home+ is primarily a building shell and heat-pump program for Bay Area homeowners; we verify whether a solar or battery incentive is currently active at bayren.org and explain the application path if so. | BayREN always pays out for solar. |
| What is the best next step before signing a solar contract? | Get a written quote with line-item pricing including the design model output (kWh per year), shade analysis, panel and inverter make and model, permit and PG&E interconnection fees, production guarantee terms, and warranty terms. | Sign today to lock in pricing before incentives change. |
| How do solar permits work with SF DBI? | For PV systems 4 kW DC or smaller on existing single or two-family homes we use SF DBI's SolarAPP+ portal for instant electrical-permit issuance (SF DBI has handled SolarAPP+ residential solar permits via its online permitting and tracking system since January 2023). Above that threshold or with structural attachment on an older Victorian or Edwardian roof we go through standard plan check and add a structural review. Permission to operate (PTO) from PG&E typically takes 2-6 weeks after final inspection. We share all permit applications and inspection cards. | Solar permits are easy and same-day in SF. |
| Does the federal Section 25D residential solar credit apply to a 2026 install in SF? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installs placed in service in 2026 or later do not qualify for §25D. Any contractor who quotes the 30 percent federal credit for a 2026 install has it wrong; flag that as a red flag and ask for a corrected quote without the federal-credit line item. | §25D still applies in 2026; you will receive 30 percent on your taxes. |
| Does the California Title 24 Solar Mandate apply to a retrofit on my existing SF house? | Title 24 Solar Mandate applies to new construction and some major remodels. Adding solar to an existing house is a separate path (voluntary retrofit). We confirm whether your project triggers the mandate and document the determination. For voluntary retrofits, the design just needs to meet the standard residential electrical and structural codes; the Title 24 Solar Mandate compliance path is not required. | Title 24 applies to every solar install in SF. |
| Does BayREN Home+ cover any of the solar install cost? | BayREN Home+ focuses on building-shell measures and heat pumps; solar PV has not been a BayREN core rebate category historically. We verify current bayren.org program status before listing any BayREN line item for solar; if it is not currently funded for solar we do not include it. | BayREN always rebates solar in SF. |
| If I add solar, should I also upgrade to CleanPowerSF SuperGreen, or does the rooftop solar make that unnecessary? | CleanPowerSF SuperGreen is a supplier-side product at 100 percent renewable; rooftop solar offsets the grid energy you consume but not the energy you still pull from the grid at night or in winter. Upgrading to SuperGreen also covers that remaining import. The decision is about residual carbon, not solar economics; we explain both and let you choose. CleanPowerSF SuperGreen does not change PG&E delivery charges or your NEM 3.0 export rate. | SuperGreen is required if you have solar. |
| What is the best next step before signing an SF solar contract? | Schedule the site visit, get the PVsyst or HelioScope production model with neighborhood-microclimate derate, confirm SolarAPP+ eligibility, decide on the NEM 3.0 self-consumption strategy (solar-only vs solar plus battery), and get a written quote with all line items: panels, inverter, racking, labor, permits, structural review, monitoring. Compare two or three bids on the same scope. | Sign today; the prices are going up. |
| Does the federal Section 25D residential clean energy credit apply to my battery install? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Battery installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for the 30 percent §25D credit. | You will receive the 30 percent federal credit on your taxes. |
| Does HEEHRA or TECH Clean California currently offer a battery incentive? | Neither HEEHRA nor TECH primarily fund residential batteries; SGIP is the main California battery program. We verify current TECH scope at techcleanca.com and HEEHRA status at energy.ca.gov before citing any battery incentive. | HEEHRA covers batteries automatically. |
| Will the quote separate confirmed SGIP incentives from assumed? | Yes. SGIP is marked confirmed only after pre-approval is granted and the funding tier is reserved; we mark the line as assumed in the quote until then and explain the reservation status. | All listed incentives are yours. |
| What is the best next step before signing a battery contract? | Get a written quote with line-item pricing including usable kWh, continuous AC inverter output, AC vs DC coupling, manufacturer warranty terms (years AND cycles AND throughput), labor warranty separately, SJPermits.org permit fees, PG&E interconnection plan, and an honest SGIP workflow: as of December 31, 2025 only the AB 209-funded RSSE budget accepts new applications and it is fully reserved (attrition-based waitlist via selfgenca.com), so the proposal documents the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate. | Sign today to lock in SGIP before funding runs out. |
| What does the SF DBI permit process look like for a battery install? | We pull an SF DBI electrical permit through the online permitting and tracking system. For wall-mounted batteries we also confirm structural attachment per the manufacturer install manual. Fire setback follows CRC R327; we document the setback measurements in the permit submission. Final card sign-off happens at inspection. We share all permit copies and inspection cards. | Batteries don't need permits in SF for under 20 kWh. |
| Does the federal Section 25D credit apply to my battery install in 2026? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installs placed in service in 2026 or later do not qualify for §25D. Any contractor who quotes the 30 percent federal credit for a 2026 battery install has it wrong; SGIP plus state and PG&E stacks are the current path. | §25D still applies in 2026. |
| Some SF neighborhoods are in High Fire Threat Districts (HFTD). Does that change my SGIP tier? | SGIP Equity Resiliency tier eligibility historically included residence in a Tier 3 or Tier 4 High Fire Threat District as defined by the CPUC map, combined with Equity criteria (income or DAC). Some SF properties on the western edge or near open space are in HFTD; most central SF is not. As of 2026 the ratepayer-funded Equity Resiliency budget is no longer accepting new applications — only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open, and that budget is fully reserved with new applications on a waitlist via attrition. We check the CPUC HFTD map for your address and walk through eligibility honestly before listing any SGIP line item, but practical access in 2026 is limited to the RSSE waitlist for income-qualified solar-plus-battery projects. We verify current budget status at selfgenca.com before quoting. | All SF is in HFTD; you get the top tier automatically. |
| What is the best next step before signing an SF battery contract? | Schedule a site visit, verify SGIP budget status on selfgenca.com (as of December 31, 2025 only the AB 209-funded RSSE budget accepts new applications and it is fully reserved — new apps go to an attrition-based waitlist; we document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate), decide on the backup-loads list and battery sizing, run the NEM 3.0 self-consumption model, and get a written quote with line-item pricing: battery hardware, inverter, gateway, installation labor, SF DBI permits, structural attachment if wall-mounted, monitoring setup. Compare two or three bids on the same scope and battery brand. | Sign today; SGIP funding will run out by tomorrow. |
Good vs reasonable vs bad answers
| Question | Good | Reasonable | Bad |
|---|---|---|---|
| How will you size the solar array for our future electric load (heat pump HVAC, EV, water heater)? | We model expected future usage including planned heat pump, EV miles, and water heater, then size the array to offset that load under NEM 3.0 export economics. | — | We size the system from last year's utility bill only. |
| How does NEM 3.0 change the economics versus older interconnections? | NEM 3.0 cut export compensation by ~75 percent versus NEM 2.0, which makes battery storage important for self-consumption. We model expected savings under NEM 3.0 specifically. | — | NEM 3.0 is the same as NEM 2.0 economically. |
| Is my roof suitable for solar, and what is its remaining lifetime? | We inspect the roof condition, slope, orientation, and shade pattern; we recommend roof replacement first if the roof is near end of life. | — | Any roof works. |
| Which panel and inverter brands do you recommend, and why? | We name the specific panel model (wattage, efficiency, temperature coefficient, degradation curve) and inverter brand (string vs microinverter), explain the tradeoffs for our roof, and provide the manufacturer datasheets. | — | We use whatever is cheapest in stock this month. |
| Will the array use string inverters, microinverters, or DC optimizers, and why? | We choose based on roof shading patterns and orientation: microinverters or optimizers for shaded or multi-orientation roofs, string inverters for unshaded uniform arrays. We explain the cost and monitoring tradeoff. | — | Microinverters are always best. |
| What does the shade analysis show for our roof across the year? | We run a shade analysis tool (HelioScope, Aurora, or similar) using a site survey and roof imagery, and we share the annual production estimate per panel with shade losses called out. | — | Shade is not significant. |
| Do you offer a production guarantee, and how is it enforced? | We offer an annual production guarantee in kWh based on the design model, and we explain the remediation path (true-up payment or system correction) if actual production falls below the threshold. | — | Production guarantees are a marketing gimmick. |
| What monitoring platform comes with the system, and are there subscription fees? | We name the monitoring platform (Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge mySolarEdge, or similar), describe what data is visible per panel or per string, and disclose any optional or recurring fees. | — | Monitoring is included; do not worry about the details. |
| If we add a battery later, can we still apply for SGIP at that time? | Yes — SGIP applications are tied to the battery install, not the solar install. As of 2026, only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open to new applications, and that budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition; ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications. We verify current SGIP budget status at selfgenca.com when the battery is added and explain that pre-approval is required before equipment is delivered. | — | SGIP only counts if solar and battery are installed together. |
| Does the federal Section 25D residential clean energy credit apply to my installation? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for the 30 percent §25D credit. | — | You will receive the 30 percent federal credit on your taxes. |
| Does TECH Clean California currently offer a solar incentive? | TECH Clean California primarily targets heat pump HVAC and heat pump water heaters, not standalone solar. We verify current TECH program scope at techcleanca.com before citing any incentive. | — | TECH covers solar; assume the rebate applies. |
| Are BayREN Home+ rebates available for our solar or solar plus battery project? | BayREN Home+ is primarily a building shell and heat-pump program for Bay Area homeowners; we verify whether a solar or battery incentive is currently active at bayren.org and explain the application path if so. | — | BayREN always pays out for solar. |
| Who handles the PG&E interconnection paperwork, and what is the typical timeline? | We submit the PG&E interconnection application on your behalf, file the city permits, and coordinate Permission to Operate (PTO). Typical PG&E PTO timelines range from 2 to 6 weeks after the city sign-off; we document the expected window in the quote. | — | Interconnection happens automatically. |
| What is your post-install commissioning checklist? | Commissioning includes verifying each panel reports correctly in the monitoring platform, checking inverter firmware, confirming production matches the design model on a clear day, and walking us through reading the monitoring app. | — | We turn it on and leave. |
| How will you confirm the roof structure supports the array? | We perform a structural assessment including rafter sizing, spacing, and condition; for older or unusual roofs we may engage a licensed structural engineer to provide a letter for the permit submittal. | — | Roofs always handle solar. |
| How will the array meet California fire-setback rules? | We design the array to meet the California Residential Code fire access pathway requirements: ridge setbacks, hip-to-eave pathways, and emergency egress clearances, and we document compliance in the permit submittal. | — | Fire setbacks are optional. |
| What ongoing maintenance does the system need? | Typical maintenance is light: annual visual inspection, occasional rinse if local dust or pollen reduces production, and inverter firmware updates pushed by the manufacturer. We explain the warranty implications of skipping recommended maintenance. | — | Solar is install-and-forget; no maintenance ever. |
| What warranties cover the panels, inverter, and labor? | Panels typically carry a 25 year product warranty plus a 25 year linear production warranty; inverters carry 10 to 12 years standard (extendable); we provide a 5 to 10 year labor warranty separately. We document what voids each. | — | Lifetime warranty on everything. |
| What is the best next step before signing a solar contract? | Get a written quote with line-item pricing including the design model output (kWh per year), shade analysis, panel and inverter make and model, permit and PG&E interconnection fees, production guarantee terms, and warranty terms. | — | Sign today to lock in pricing before incentives change. |
| How do you size and model production for an SF home given foggy summer mornings in the Sunset or Outer Richmond? | We model production with PVsyst or HelioScope using NREL TMY3 data for the nearest SF weather station, then apply a microclimate derate based on neighborhood (Sunset and Outer Richmond run 5-10 percent below Mission or Bernal). We give you a 12-month production model with monthly breakdown and share it. We do not promise specific kWh production; we provide a model with explicit inputs you can verify. | We model production per neighborhood and share the report; SF production typically runs 10-15 percent below SJ for the same roof. | SF gets the same production as San Jose. |
| How does NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) affect the export economics for a typical SF rooftop? | NEM 3.0 took effect April 15, 2023 for new PG&E interconnections. Export compensation is set by the hourly Avoided Cost Calculator (ACC) and is materially lower than NEM 2.0, especially during midday hours. A solar-only system with limited self-consumption has a much longer payback than under NEM 2.0. We model self-consumption with and without battery so you see the difference, and we share the ACC export-price hourly schedule we used. | NEM 3.0 changes payback math; battery storage materially improves it. We model both options. | NEM 3.0 is fine; you'll still net to zero on your bill. |
| How do solar permits work with SF DBI? | For PV systems 4 kW DC or smaller on existing single or two-family homes we use SF DBI's SolarAPP+ portal for instant electrical-permit issuance (SF DBI has handled SolarAPP+ residential solar permits via its online permitting and tracking system since January 2023). Above that threshold or with structural attachment on an older Victorian or Edwardian roof we go through standard plan check and add a structural review. Permission to operate (PTO) from PG&E typically takes 2-6 weeks after final inspection. We share all permit applications and inspection cards. | We use SolarAPP+ when eligible; otherwise standard SF DBI plan check applies. | Solar permits are easy and same-day in SF. |
| Does the federal Section 25D residential solar credit apply to a 2026 install in SF? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installs placed in service in 2026 or later do not qualify for §25D. Any contractor who quotes the 30 percent federal credit for a 2026 install has it wrong; flag that as a red flag and ask for a corrected quote without the federal-credit line item. | §25D does not apply to 2026 installs; we list state and PG&E + CleanPowerSF + BayREN paths as the current incentive stack. | §25D still applies in 2026; you will receive 30 percent on your taxes. |
| Will you provide a written production guarantee, and what does it actually cover? | A production guarantee specifies a minimum kWh / year over a defined period (often 5-10 years) and a remedy if measured production falls below it (cash refund or system makeup). We share the contract language and the monitoring data source (Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge MyEdge, SunPower MySunPower). We do not promise specific dollars; we promise kWh tied to the modeled output minus a tolerance. | We share the guarantee language and the monitoring data we use to enforce it. | Production guarantees are not necessary; the system will work. |
| Microinverter (Enphase IQ8) vs string inverter (SolarEdge) — which fits a typical SF rooftop? | SF rooftops often have multiple roof planes, dormers, and shading from neighboring buildings or chimneys, which favors microinverters or DC optimizers because each panel can operate independently. Enphase IQ8 series is the current default for residential. SolarEdge with optimizers is a reasonable alternative. String-only (no per-panel electronics) is rarely the right answer in SF because of shading variability. We share the design rationale. | Microinverters or DC optimizers are the SF default; we share the design rationale. | String inverter is always cheapest; ignore shading. |
| My roof is over 20 years old. Should I re-roof before installing solar? | Removing and reinstalling solar later costs roughly $2,500-$5,000 depending on system size. If the roof has under 10 years of remaining life it is usually cheaper to re-roof first. We assess the roof at the site visit and share the remaining-life estimate plus the re-roof-first vs install-now math. We do not push you to install on a roof we would not install on at our own home. | We assess and share the estimate; older roofs in SF often warrant re-roof first. | Old roofs are fine; just install on top. |
| How do you handle structural review for an older SF Victorian or Edwardian roof? | For older roof framing we engage a structural engineer to verify the attachment plan meets the manufacturer specification and current CRC structural code. The review covers rafter sizing, attachment fastener pull-out, and snow / wind load (SF is low snow but coastal wind load matters in the Sunset and Outer Richmond). We share the stamped review as part of the SF DBI submission. | Structural review is standard on older SF roofs; we share the stamped report. | Structural review is overkill in SF. |
| Does the California Title 24 Solar Mandate apply to a retrofit on my existing SF house? | Title 24 Solar Mandate applies to new construction and some major remodels. Adding solar to an existing house is a separate path (voluntary retrofit). We confirm whether your project triggers the mandate and document the determination. For voluntary retrofits, the design just needs to meet the standard residential electrical and structural codes; the Title 24 Solar Mandate compliance path is not required. | Title 24 Mandate is for new construction; retrofits follow the standard residential path. | Title 24 applies to every solar install in SF. |
| How do you handle fire setback requirements (CRC R327) on the roof layout? | California CRC R327 sets fire access pathway requirements for rooftop PV: typically a 36-inch pathway along the ridge and to vents and chimneys, plus access from the roof edge. SF adopts current CRC. We design the array within the setback envelope, share the layout drawing, and confirm it meets R327 before the SF DBI inspector arrives. We do not push the homeowner toward a layout that fails setback. | R327 is non-negotiable; we share the layout drawing with setback dimensions. | Fire setback rules are advisory; ignore them on small roofs. |
| What are the warranty terms on panels, inverter, and labor — and what voids each? | Tier-1 panels typically carry a 25 year product warranty plus a linear production warranty (typically 85-92 percent of nameplate at year 25). Microinverters (Enphase IQ8) carry 25 years; string inverters (SolarEdge) carry 10-12 years extendable. Our install labor warranty is separate (typically 5-10 years). We share each in writing and document what voids coverage (non-authorized servicing, modifications, off-spec environmental exposure). | We share three separate warranty docs and explain what voids each. | All warranties are lifetime. |
| How do you analyze shading from neighboring buildings and trees, and can a property easement protect against future shading? | We model shading with HelioScope or Aurora using surrounding 3D massing for buildings and trees and run an 8760-hour analysis. For dense SF neighborhoods we model neighbor structures explicitly. The California Solar Shade Control Act (Solar Rights Act) provides some protection against new shading from neighbor trees but not from new construction. We share the shade analysis and explain the easement option separately if it matters to the homeowner. | We share the 8760-hour shade analysis; legal easements are a separate conversation. | Shading is not a real issue; modern panels work in shade. |
| What soiling derate do you assume for an SF install, and does coastal salt air matter? | Standard residential soiling derate is 2-5 percent annually; SF coastal locations (Outer Sunset, Outer Richmond) can see higher salt deposition that benefits from periodic rinse. We document the soiling assumption in the production model. We do not promise specific output; we share the inputs so you can compare against actual monitoring after install. | Standard soiling derate is what we use; coastal locations benefit from occasional rinse. | Soiling is not a real issue. |
| What does monitoring and commissioning look like at startup? | Commissioning includes panel-level production verification (Enphase Enlighten or SolarEdge MyEdge), inverter ground-fault test, AC disconnect labeling, and a startup report. Monitoring goes through the manufacturer app; we set up notifications for any per-panel underperformance flag. The commissioning report goes to you in writing. | We do a commissioning checklist and share the startup report. | Commissioning is a buzzword; the system just turns on. |
| What does the PG&E interconnection process look like, and how long does PTO take? | We submit the interconnection application to PG&E with the design package after SF DBI permit issuance. PG&E reviews, issues an agreement (Net Billing Tariff under NEM 3.0), and after final SF DBI inspection sends a Permission to Operate (PTO) letter. PTO typically lands 2-6 weeks after final inspection in current PG&E queue. We track the application and email status updates. | We submit and track PG&E interconnection; PTO lead time varies with current queue. | PG&E PTO is automatic; no tracking needed. |
| If I am planning to add HP HVAC, HPWH, and an EV, how does that change the solar sizing? | We model the future-load scenario (HP HVAC kWh from Manual J, HPWH typical annual kWh, EV miles plus efficiency) and add it to the present-day usage baseline. Sizing the array for present-day usage only underestimates future need; the resulting underbuild costs more to add later because of incremental permit and labor costs. We share both sizing scenarios. | We model both scenarios so you can decide whether to oversize now. | Size for what you use today; do not worry about future loads. |
| How does the inverter sizing comply with NEC 690 PV and 705.12 interconnection? | NEC 690 covers PV system installation; NEC 705.12 sets the 120 percent rule for combined inverter sources plus main breaker against the busbar rating. We share the bus calculation and confirm whether a sub-panel, supply-side connection, or load-side tap is the right interconnection method for your existing panel. Older SF panels often need either a sub-panel or a smart panel as part of the install. | We share the bus calc and the interconnection method. | NEC 705.12 is optional. |
| Does BayREN Home+ cover any of the solar install cost? | BayREN Home+ focuses on building-shell measures and heat pumps; solar PV has not been a BayREN core rebate category historically. We verify current bayren.org program status before listing any BayREN line item for solar; if it is not currently funded for solar we do not include it. | Solar is generally outside BayREN; we verify and document. | BayREN always rebates solar in SF. |
| If I add solar, should I also upgrade to CleanPowerSF SuperGreen, or does the rooftop solar make that unnecessary? | CleanPowerSF SuperGreen is a supplier-side product at 100 percent renewable; rooftop solar offsets the grid energy you consume but not the energy you still pull from the grid at night or in winter. Upgrading to SuperGreen also covers that remaining import. The decision is about residual carbon, not solar economics; we explain both and let you choose. CleanPowerSF SuperGreen does not change PG&E delivery charges or your NEM 3.0 export rate. | SuperGreen affects residual grid imports; it is a separate decision from solar economics. | SuperGreen is required if you have solar. |
| What is the best next step before signing an SF solar contract? | Schedule the site visit, get the PVsyst or HelioScope production model with neighborhood-microclimate derate, confirm SolarAPP+ eligibility, decide on the NEM 3.0 self-consumption strategy (solar-only vs solar plus battery), and get a written quote with all line items: panels, inverter, racking, labor, permits, structural review, monitoring. Compare two or three bids on the same scope. | Compare two or three bids on the same scope before signing. | Sign today; the prices are going up. |
| Which circuits will be backed up during an outage, and for how long? | We provide a backup-loads list (refrigerator, internet, lights, HVAC controls, well pump if any), estimate runtime in hours at typical and worst-case usage, and explain whether whole-home or essential-loads backup is recommended. | — | The battery powers the house. |
| Does my install qualify for SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program), and at what tier? | We verify current SGIP budget status before quoting: as of December 31, 2025 the ratepayer-funded General Market, Equity, and Equity Resiliency budgets are closed to new applications, and only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open — and that budget is fully reserved with new applications served via an attrition-based waitlist (selfgenca.com). We document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate, and we explain that pre-approval is required before equipment is delivered. | — | SGIP always pays out the maximum amount. |
| What is the battery's usable kWh and continuous inverter power, and how do they relate? | We specify both: kWh determines how long the backup lasts; the inverter's continuous AC output determines what can run at once (refrigerator + lights + maybe HVAC vs everything). | — | kWh is the only number that matters. |
| Is the battery AC-coupled or DC-coupled with the solar array, and why? | AC-coupled batteries use a separate inverter and are easier to retrofit to existing solar. DC-coupled batteries share an inverter with new solar and are typically more efficient end-to-end. We choose based on whether the solar array is new or existing. | — | Coupling does not matter. |
| Can we add more battery capacity later, and what are the limits? | Most modern systems support stacking additional units up to a vendor-specified maximum. We document the maximum stack today, what is needed to add capacity later (matching firmware, software update, possible electrical re-work), and whether SGIP can be applied to expansion units. | — | Buy the biggest battery today; expansion is impossible. |
| What depth-of-discharge limit does the battery use, and how does that affect usable kWh? | We explain the nameplate kWh vs usable kWh: modern LFP batteries reserve very little for cycle life (often 95 to 100 percent of nameplate is usable); older chemistries reserve 10 to 20 percent. We quote usable kWh in the proposal so you can compare like-for-like. | — | Nameplate kWh is the usable kWh. |
| What is the manufacturer warranty on the battery, and what limits it? | Most residential batteries carry a 10 to 12 year warranty, often paired with a cycle count (e.g. 6,000 to 10,000 cycles) or throughput limit (e.g. 37.8 MWh) - whichever comes first. We provide the spec sheet and explain what voids coverage. | — | Lifetime warranty; no fine print. |
| Are time-of-use arbitrage cycles counted against the warranty? | Yes. Every charge-discharge cycle counts toward the throughput limit; aggressive daily TOU arbitrage may shorten the years-based warranty window. We model expected cycles per year for your usage pattern. | — | Cycling does not count against the warranty. |
| How will the battery shift load away from PG&E peak hours? | We program the battery to charge from solar during midday and discharge during the PG&E EV2-A or E-ELEC peak window (typically 4-9pm), saving you the peak-period delta. We tune the schedule for your actual usage and rate plan. | — | The battery charges and discharges whenever. |
| How does NEM 3.0 change the battery payback? | Under NEM 3.0, export compensation dropped by roughly 75 percent, so self-consumption (using your solar via the battery instead of exporting) is now the primary battery economic driver. We model expected savings under NEM 3.0 with your specific rate plan. | — | NEM 3.0 has no effect on battery payback. |
| How will the install meet CRC 1207 / R327 fire-setback rules for energy storage? | We design the install per California Residential Code R327 (formerly section 1207): separation from windows, doors, openings into the dwelling, and other batteries; smoke and heat detectors per code; and an exterior wall location where possible. We document compliance in the permit submittal. | — | Fire setbacks are optional. |
| What is your post-install commissioning checklist? | Commissioning includes verifying battery state-of-charge reporting, testing backup-mode transfer with a simulated outage, walking through the app for backup-only vs TOU modes, and confirming the SGIP system performance metering is functioning if SGIP is part of the project. | — | We turn it on and leave. |
| Are you an installer certified by the battery manufacturer? | Yes. We provide our certification number for the specific battery brand (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ, LG Chem RESU, FranklinWH, etc.); certification is typically required to preserve full warranty coverage. | — | Certification does not matter for batteries. |
| Who handles the PG&E interconnection update for the new battery? | We submit the updated PG&E interconnection paperwork to add the battery to your existing or new solar interconnection, and we obtain the updated Permission to Operate before energizing. | — | PG&E interconnection happens automatically. |
| What panel-side breaker work or interconnection method does the battery require? | We confirm whether the battery interconnects via a back-fed breaker (with sum-of-breakers check per NEC 705.12), a supply-side tap, or a dedicated battery sub-panel; we show the calculation on the permit drawings. | — | Any spare slot will work. |
| Does the federal Section 25D residential clean energy credit apply to my battery install? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Battery installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for the 30 percent §25D credit. | — | You will receive the 30 percent federal credit on your taxes. |
| Does HEEHRA or TECH Clean California currently offer a battery incentive? | Neither HEEHRA nor TECH primarily fund residential batteries; SGIP is the main California battery program. We verify current TECH scope at techcleanca.com and HEEHRA status at energy.ca.gov before citing any battery incentive. | — | HEEHRA covers batteries automatically. |
| Will the quote separate confirmed SGIP incentives from assumed? | Yes. SGIP is marked confirmed only after pre-approval is granted and the funding tier is reserved; we mark the line as assumed in the quote until then and explain the reservation status. | — | All listed incentives are yours. |
| What is the best next step before signing a battery contract? | Get a written quote with line-item pricing including usable kWh, continuous AC inverter output, AC vs DC coupling, manufacturer warranty terms (years AND cycles AND throughput), labor warranty separately, SJPermits.org permit fees, PG&E interconnection plan, and an honest SGIP workflow: as of December 31, 2025 only the AB 209-funded RSSE budget accepts new applications and it is fully reserved (attrition-based waitlist via selfgenca.com), so the proposal documents the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate. | — | Sign today to lock in SGIP before funding runs out. |
| How does SGIP apply for a residential battery in PG&E territory (SF)? | SGIP is administered by PG&E in SF. Budget status as of 2026: per the SGIP program administrators, the ratepayer-funded General Market (around $150/kWh), Equity (around $850/kWh for income-qualified customers at or below 80 percent AMI or in CalEnviroScreen Disadvantaged Communities), and Equity Resiliency (around $1,000/kWh for customers also meeting Medical Baseline, Tier 3-4 High Fire Threat District, or DAC criteria) budgets are no longer accepting new applications. Only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open to new applications — and that budget is fully reserved as of December 31, 2025; new RSSE applications go to a waitlist served through attrition of cancelled projects. RSSE rates were around $1,100/kWh storage plus around $3,100/kW solar, targeted at income-qualified solar-plus-battery customers. Pre-approval is required before installation; we verify current budget status at selfgenca.com and your administrator, reserve through the appropriate path, and document the reservation number (or waitlist position) in the proposal. We confirm only what we have reserved; we do not assume eligibility. | We verify current SGIP budget status before quoting; only RSSE is open to new applications today and it is on a waitlist via attrition. We document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate. | You will receive SGIP for the whole battery cost. |
| How does the battery improve solar payback under NEM 3.0 in San Francisco? | Under NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff), exporting to the grid pays at the hourly Avoided Cost Calculator rate, which is materially lower than NEM 2.0 retail rates. A battery stores midday solar for use during the late-afternoon peak window, which is the highest-rate window on PG&E EV2-A and E-ELEC. We model self-consumption ratio (typically 60-80 percent with battery vs 30-50 percent solar-only on a typical SF roof) and share the year-1 cost comparison. | Battery improves payback under NEM 3.0; we show the modeled difference for your usage. | Adding a battery always cuts your bill in half. |
| What does the SF DBI permit process look like for a battery install? | We pull an SF DBI electrical permit through the online permitting and tracking system. For wall-mounted batteries we also confirm structural attachment per the manufacturer install manual. Fire setback follows CRC R327; we document the setback measurements in the permit submission. Final card sign-off happens at inspection. We share all permit copies and inspection cards. | SF DBI permits are required; we share copies on submission. | Batteries don't need permits in SF for under 20 kWh. |
| Should the battery be AC-coupled or DC-coupled with the solar array? | AC-coupling (Tesla Powerwall 3 with its integrated hybrid inverter, Enphase IQ Battery 5P, FranklinWH aPower) lets the battery and solar each operate independently and works well for adding battery to an existing solar install. DC-coupling (a hybrid inverter shared between PV and battery, often SolarEdge or SMA) is more efficient when installing solar and battery together. We share the topology choice and the round-trip efficiency assumption. For an existing solar retrofit, AC-coupling is usually the path; for a fresh install, either can work. | AC-coupling for solar retrofits; either for fresh installs. We share the rationale. | AC vs DC does not matter. |
| What is a realistic backup-loads list for a typical SF house during a multi-hour outage? | We build the backup list with you. Typical SF priorities: refrigerator and freezer (compressor cycling), interior lighting on a few key circuits, Wi-Fi and modem, medical equipment if any, a few outlets for phone charging, and selective EV slow-charging at Level 1 if range matters. We exclude high-draw loads (HP HVAC compressor, electric oven, EV Level 2) from full-time backup unless you are sizing for it. We share the load list with each circuit's expected wattage. | We share the load list; most SF backup plans cover essentials for 8-24 hours. | Backup will cover everything in the house for a week. |
| Should I get 1, 2, or 3 batteries (5-30 kWh)? | Sizing follows backup goals (essentials only, partial home, whole home) and self-consumption goals (NEM 3.0 arbitrage on TOU). For SF essentials-only plus modest TOU arbitrage, one Powerwall 3 (13.5 kWh) or one Enphase IQ Battery 5P (5 kWh) is typical. For whole-home backup with HP HVAC and EV consideration, two or three units are common. We model both target scenarios and share the kWh-per-hour drawdown estimate for each. | Sizing depends on backup goals; we share the drawdown model for each option. | Buy as many as you can fit. |
| Critical-loads sub-panel vs whole-house backup — which fits an older SF house? | Older SF houses with 100A panels and limited bus capacity usually do better with a critical-loads sub-panel: only the listed backup circuits move to the sub-panel and ride the battery during an outage. Whole-house backup requires either a larger battery (multiple units) or a smart panel that can shed loads dynamically (Span, Lumin). We share the cost delta and the wiring impact. | Critical-loads sub-panel is the SF default; whole-house backup requires more battery or a smart panel. | Whole-house backup is always better. |
| What is the usable kWh (depth of discharge), and how does LFP chemistry affect that? | Modern residential batteries are nearly all LFP (lithium iron phosphate) chemistry, with usable depth of discharge at 95-100 percent of nameplate. Older NMC residential batteries (Powerwall 2 era) ran 90 percent usable. Quote should state nameplate kWh AND usable kWh AND the manufacturer's listed continuous AC output (Powerwall 3 is 13.5 kWh nameplate, 13.5 usable, 11.5 kW continuous AC). We document all three in the proposal. | Usable kWh and continuous AC output are what matter; we document both. | Nameplate is what you can use. |
| Battery warranty: years, cycles, AND throughput. What do those mean? | A complete warranty has three dimensions. Years (typically 10) covers calendar age. Cycles (often 'unlimited' or 6,000+) covers number of full charge-discharge cycles. Throughput (typically 37 MWh for Powerwall 3) caps lifetime energy delivered. The warranty pays when whichever limit is reached first. We share the warranty doc and explain which limit your usage pattern hits first. | All three dimensions matter; we share the warranty doc and explain which limit applies. | Battery warranty is 10 years; nothing else matters. |
| How long can the battery run my backup loads during an outage? | Runtime = usable kWh / continuous load (in kW). A 13.5 kWh battery running a 1 kW backup load runs 13.5 hours theoretical (less round-trip efficiency). If solar is producing during a daytime outage, the battery recharges via PV passthrough if the inverter supports island mode. We share the runtime estimate for your modeled backup-loads list under both grid-down-with-PV and grid-down-no-PV scenarios. | Runtime depends on backup-load drawdown; we share both grid-down-with-PV and no-PV scenarios. | The battery lasts forever during an outage. |
| Does the federal Section 25D credit apply to my battery install in 2026? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installs placed in service in 2026 or later do not qualify for §25D. Any contractor who quotes the 30 percent federal credit for a 2026 battery install has it wrong; SGIP plus state and PG&E stacks are the current path. | §25D does not apply to 2026 installs; SGIP is the primary path. | §25D still applies in 2026. |
| What does the PG&E interconnection process look like for a battery add to an existing solar install? | Adding a battery to an existing NEM 2.0 solar install triggers a NEM 3.0 transition only if the system size increases beyond a small threshold; we confirm the threshold against current PG&E rules and document the agreement type in the proposal. For fresh installs the agreement is the Net Billing Tariff. PG&E updates the meter and issues a revised PTO after final SF DBI inspection. | We confirm the NEM transition threshold and document the agreement type. | Adding a battery never affects your NEM agreement. |
| How do NEC Article 706 (ESS) and 705.12 (interconnection) apply? | NEC 706 covers energy storage system installation: disconnect, signage, working clearance. NEC 705.12 applies to the interconnection point on the existing panel; combined inverter sources must satisfy the 120 percent rule against the busbar. We share the bus calc, confirm the disconnect location meets the AHJ requirement (within sight or otherwise per code), and document the labeling per 706.21. | NEC 706 and 705.12 are required; we share the calc and labeling. | NEC 706 does not really apply to residential. |
| What UL certifications should the battery and the install meet? | Residential batteries should be UL 9540 listed (system certification) and the cells should pass UL 9540A (large-scale fire test) testing. We confirm the chosen battery's UL listings before quoting and share the documentation. SF DBI inspectors usually verify the UL listing as part of the permit. We do not install equipment that is not UL 9540 listed. | UL 9540 is the baseline; we confirm before quoting. | UL listings are paperwork; they do not matter. |
| Tesla Powerwall 3, Enphase IQ Battery 5P, FranklinWH, LG Energy Solution RESU — which fits an SF install? | Powerwall 3 (13.5 kWh, 11.5 kW continuous AC, integrated hybrid inverter, supports up to 4 stacked units) suits whole-home backup with high continuous load. Enphase IQ Battery 5P (5 kWh modular, pairs with IQ8 microinverters) suits incremental add-on. FranklinWH aPower (15 kWh, modular up to 3 units, full whole-home backup) is a competitive whole-home alternative. LG RESU is less common in SF post-2024 due to LG's pivot to commercial. We share the comparison; brand choice depends on goals. | We share a 3-way comparison; the right brand depends on backup goals and budget. | Tesla is the only option. |
| How do I monitor the battery, and what app or dashboard comes with it? | Each manufacturer has its own app: Tesla app for Powerwall, Enphase Enlighten for IQ Battery, FranklinWH app for aPower. Functions include state of charge, real-time power flow (solar / grid / battery / loads), backup-mode toggle, and TOU schedule. We set up the app on your phone at commissioning and confirm push notifications for outage start and end. | We set up the manufacturer app at commissioning. | Monitoring is included automatically; do not worry about it. |
| How does NEC Article 250 grounding apply to the ESS install? | The battery's AC output ties into the existing grounding electrode system at the main panel; we verify the existing grounding electrode meets NEC 250 (ground rod, water pipe bond, ufer if present) and upgrade if not. For wall-mounted batteries we follow the manufacturer's bonding instructions for the enclosure. We document the grounding upgrade as a line item if required. | We verify grounding meets NEC 250 and document any required upgrade. | Existing grounding is fine; nothing to check. |
| Some SF neighborhoods are in High Fire Threat Districts (HFTD). Does that change my SGIP tier? | SGIP Equity Resiliency tier eligibility historically included residence in a Tier 3 or Tier 4 High Fire Threat District as defined by the CPUC map, combined with Equity criteria (income or DAC). Some SF properties on the western edge or near open space are in HFTD; most central SF is not. As of 2026 the ratepayer-funded Equity Resiliency budget is no longer accepting new applications — only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open, and that budget is fully reserved with new applications on a waitlist via attrition. We check the CPUC HFTD map for your address and walk through eligibility honestly before listing any SGIP line item, but practical access in 2026 is limited to the RSSE waitlist for income-qualified solar-plus-battery projects. We verify current budget status at selfgenca.com before quoting. | We check the HFTD map for your address; most central SF is not in HFTD. | All SF is in HFTD; you get the top tier automatically. |
| What does battery commissioning look like at startup? | Commissioning includes inverter firmware update, AC and DC voltage checks, ground-fault test, backup-loads selection (which circuits ride the battery), TOU schedule setup, app onboarding, and a test outage (we open the grid-side disconnect and confirm the battery seamlessly carries the backup loads). We share a one-page commissioning report. | We do a startup checklist plus a test outage; commissioning report is in writing. | Commissioning is a buzzword; the system works. |
| What is the best next step before signing an SF battery contract? | Schedule a site visit, verify SGIP budget status on selfgenca.com (as of December 31, 2025 only the AB 209-funded RSSE budget accepts new applications and it is fully reserved — new apps go to an attrition-based waitlist; we document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate), decide on the backup-loads list and battery sizing, run the NEM 3.0 self-consumption model, and get a written quote with line-item pricing: battery hardware, inverter, gateway, installation labor, SF DBI permits, structural attachment if wall-mounted, monitoring setup. Compare two or three bids on the same scope and battery brand. | Verify SGIP status on selfgenca.com — only RSSE is open and it is waitlisted — and compare two bids on the same scope before signing. | Sign today; SGIP funding will run out by tomorrow. |
Green flags, reasonable caveats, red flags
Green flags
- PVsyst or HelioScope production model with neighborhood-microclimate derate
- NEM 3.0 self-consumption model with and without battery
- Current SGIP budget status verified at selfgenca.com before quoting: ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications; only AB 209-funded RSSE remains open and is fully reserved with new applications on a waitlist served via attrition. RSSE waitlist application submitted for income-qualified solar plus battery customers; waitlist position documented
- Structural review for Victorian or Edwardian attachment included
- Fire setback measurements (CRC R327) documented in permit
Reasonable caveats
- Older SF roofs may need re-roof before solar install
- SF microclimate derate varies by neighborhood (Outer Sunset runs 5-10 percent below Mission)
- PG&E PTO typically 2-6 weeks after final inspection
Red flags
- Promises specific kWh production without modeling
- Claims §25D federal credit applies to 2026+ installs
- Recommends solar-only without modeling NEM 3.0 payback
Quote checklist
Check every item before signing.
Required
Optional but recommended
Quote comparison worksheet
Print this and fill in by hand, or capture quotes side-by-side as you receive them.
| Line item | Contractor 1 | Contractor 2 | Contractor 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quote models future load (heat pump, EV, water heater) for sizing, not just past consumption. (required) | |||
| Quote uses NEM 3.0 export rates and explicitly notes the change from NEM 2.0. (required) | |||
| Quote includes roof condition assessment with remaining lifetime estimate. (required) | |||
| Quote specifies panel and inverter brand, wattage, efficiency, and warranty. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a shading analysis and string or microinverter design notes. (required) | |||
| Quote states the production guarantee (kWh/year) and how it is enforced. | |||
| Quote names the monitoring platform and any subscription cost. | |||
| Quote names who handles PG&E interconnection paperwork. (required) | |||
| Quote separates confirmed incentives from assumed with reservation status. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a 12-month production model with neighborhood-microclimate derate. (required) | |||
| Quote notes whether SolarAPP+ streamlined permitting applies. | |||
| Quote names whether SF DBI structural review is required for older Victorian or Edwardian roof attachment. (required) | |||
| Quote states usable kWh (not just nameplate) and continuous AC inverter output. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a backup-loads list with runtime estimates. (required) | |||
| Quote states whether the battery is AC-coupled or DC-coupled with the solar array. (required) | |||
| Quote states current SGIP budget status (as of 2026, ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications; only AB 209-funded RSSE remains open and that budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition) and any RSSE waitlist application reference if pursued. (required) | |||
| Quote confirms compliance with CRC 1207 / R327 fire setback rules for the chosen install location. (required) | |||
| Quote specifies battery warranty (years, cycles, throughput) and labor warranty separately. (required) | |||
| Quote names the battery monitoring platform and any user-side controls (time-of-use scheduling, backup-mode toggle). | |||
| Quote names who handles PG&E interconnection updates for the battery. (required) | |||
| Quote explains the SGIP RSSE waitlist application workflow and timeline before equipment is delivered (RSSE is the only SGIP tier accepting new applications as of 2026, and its budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition). | |||
| Quote names the SGIP path pursued (RSSE waitlist if income-qualified solar plus battery; otherwise no SGIP path is available in 2026 because the ratepayer-funded budgets are no longer accepting new applications) and includes any RSSE waitlist reference number. (required) | |||
| Quote names who pulls the SF DBI electrical permit and itemizes fire-setback measurements per CRC R327. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a year-1 self-consumption and cost model under NEM 3.0 with and without battery. (required) |
Incentive verification worksheet
| Program | Amount | Eligibility | Pre-approval? | Confidence | Verified | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit (solar PV) | Expired Dec 31, 2025. For 2023–2025: 30% of total installed cost, no cap. | EXPIRED: This federal credit ended Dec 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21, signed July 4, 2025). Expenditures made after Dec 31, 2025 do not qualify — for §25D, the IRS treats the expenditure date as the date the installation is placed in service (completed), not the date of payment. A homeowner who paid a deposit in 2025 but whose system was placed in service in 2026 does not qualify. For installations placed in service during 2023–2025, the credit applied to solar PV systems supplying electricity to a U.S. residential dwelling used by the taxpayer as a residence (principal residence not required; second homes qualified; rentals not occupied by the taxpayer did not qualify), satisfying applicable fire and electrical codes, with installation costs included in the credit basis. The credit was nonrefundable with carryforward. Homeowners with eligible 2025 placed-in-service installations may still claim the credit on their 2025 federal tax return. Verify with a qualified tax professional. | Verify | high | 2026-05-30 | Internal Revenue Service, Internal Revenue Service, ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE) |
| Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit (battery storage) | Expired Dec 31, 2025. For 2023–2025: 30% of total installed cost, no cap (battery capacity at least 3 kWh). | EXPIRED: This federal credit ended Dec 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21, signed July 4, 2025). Expenditures made after Dec 31, 2025 do not qualify — for §25D, the IRS treats the expenditure date as the date the installation is placed in service (completed), not the date of payment. A homeowner who paid a deposit in 2025 but whose system was placed in service in 2026 does not qualify. For installations placed in service during 2023–2025, the credit applied to battery storage systems with a rated capacity of at least 3 kilowatt-hours installed in a U.S. home used by the taxpayer as a residence (existing homes and new construction; principal residence not required; rentals not occupied by the taxpayer did not qualify). Standalone batteries (not paired with solar) were explicitly eligible from Jan 1, 2023 onward. The credit was nonrefundable with carryforward. Homeowners with eligible 2025 placed-in-service installations may still claim the credit on their 2025 federal tax return. Verify with a qualified tax professional. | Verify | high | 2026-05-30 | Internal Revenue Service, Internal Revenue Service, ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE) |
| California Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) — residential battery storage | As of 2026-06-08, only the Residential Solar and Storage Equity (RSSE) AB 209 budget remains open for new applications, and that budget is fully reserved — new applications are placed on a waitlist served through attrition of cancelled projects. Per-kWh rates by tier (for context — only RSSE accepts new apps in 2026): RSSE $1,100/kWh storage + $3,100/kW solar; Equity Resiliency $1,000/kWh; Equity $850/kWh; San Joaquin Valley Residential $1,100/kWh; Small Residential Storage / General Market $150/kWh. Per-project totals depend on installed battery capacity (kWh) and tier eligibility. | Administered by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and delivered through utility program administrators (PG&E, Center for Sustainable Energy / SDG&E territory, SoCalGas, SCE; LADWP customers are not eligible). Budget status as of 2026-06-08: per SGIP program administrator (CSE / sgipsd.org), 'as of December 31, 2025, all new application submissions are strictly available to the Residential Solar and Storage Equity (RSSE) AB 209 budget. At this time, all available RSSE AB 209 funding has been reserved.' New RSSE applications are placed on a waitlist in order received and funded through attrition of cancelled projects. The ratepayer-funded General Market, Equity, and Equity Resiliency budgets are not accepting new applications. Tier rates for reference (applicable to reservations made while budgets were open): (1) Residential Solar and Storage Equity (RSSE) — $1,100/kWh storage plus $3,100/kW solar; low-income residential customers; AB 209-funded; reservation window opened June 2, 2025. (2) Equity Resiliency — $1,000/kWh; IOU residential customers in high fire-threat districts and/or medical baseline / income-qualified. (3) Equity — $850/kWh; income-qualified IOU residential customers. (4) San Joaquin Valley Residential — $1,100/kWh; PG&E and SCE pilot footprint. (5) Small Residential Storage / General Market — $150/kWh. Reservations require a one-year completion window and enrollment in a qualified Demand Response program. Tier eligibility, income documentation, HFTD-tier residency, and budget-availability status must be verified against the current SGIP Handbook and the customer's utility administrator before any contractor work begins. | Yes | high | 2026-06-08 | California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) |
| California Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0) — solar export compensation framework | Policy framework, not a direct rebate. Excess solar generation exported to the grid is compensated at a rate reflecting the time-varying grid value of that generation (Avoided Cost Calculator methodology), rather than at the retail electricity rate that NEM 2.0 used. Net export compensation under the Net Billing Tariff is typically materially lower than under NEM 2.0; pairing solar with battery storage may materially affect project economics under this framework. | POLICY IN EFFECT — NOT A REBATE: The Net Billing Tariff (NBT), commonly called 'NEM 3.0,' is the current Net Energy Metering framework for new residential solar interconnections in California, adopted by CPUC Decision 22-12-056 and effective for applications submitted on or after 2023-04-15. It applies to new customer-generator interconnections in the three large investor-owned utility territories: Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). LADWP and other publicly owned utilities operate their own net-metering tariffs and are not covered by NBT. Under NBT, onsite solar generation first offsets the customer's own consumption; excess generation exported to the grid is compensated at a time-varying export rate based on the grid's avoided cost rather than the retail rate. Existing NEM 1.0 / NEM 2.0 customers are generally grandfathered under the legacy tariff for a defined period from their original interconnection date — verify against the customer's utility for the legacy term. Homeowners considering new residential solar in PG&E / SCE / SDG&E territory should model project economics specifically under NBT, with and without paired battery storage, before signing a contract. | Interconnection application required, not a financial preapproval. | high | 2026-05-30 | California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) |
Permit verification worksheet
| Permit | Jurisdiction | Applies to | Confidence | Verified | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical + building permit | city | Solar Panels | medium | 2026-05-31 | City and County of San Francisco, City and County of San Francisco, City and County of San Francisco, City and County of San Francisco, City and County of San Francisco |
| Electrical + building permit | city | Battery Storage | medium | 2026-05-31 | City and County of San Francisco, City and County of San Francisco, City and County of San Francisco, City and County of San Francisco, City and County of San Francisco |