For a limited time, PG&E is partnering with Richard Heath & Associates (RHA) to install a battery storage system in your home for free. The installation is valued at $10,000-$15,000. This offer is for a limited time and while battery supplies last.
We know how difficult it is to be without power. That's why PG&E is taking steps to reduce the burden of outages on customers and communities. Through the Residential Storage Initiative, we are providing permanent back-up battery systems, free of charge, to support specific customers who are most vulnerable to power outages.
We expect some areas will experience more frequent outages due to climate change and weather. We’ve installed Enhanced Safety Power Settings (EPSS) on power lines in high-risk areas to reduce weather-related ignitions and help keep customers safe. EPSS outages last approximately 4-6 hours. A free home battery through the Residential Storage Initiative should provide power to your important circuits and appliances through an average outage.
For a limited time, eligible customers can have a battery storage system (10-13 kWh) installed in their homes at no cost (valued at $10,000-$15,000). Battery storage can:
Step 1 – Outreach & Prequalification
The RHA staff will perform outreach to PG&E’s specified customer list and conduct a survey to determine prequalification status.
Step 2 – Site Assessments
If a customer pre-qualifies for the program, RHA subcontractors will schedule Site Assessments to validate survey responses and identify up to four to five circuits for the battery to support during an outage. A field technician will assess the customer’s property and electrical panel(s) to determine battery location, document meter information, and collect any other relevant documentation.
Step 3 – Permitting
Obtaining permits to install the battery may take several weeks or more, depending on the workload of the local permitting office. Once electrical design is complete, RHA will apply for a permit and keep the customer informed of timelines.
Step 4 – Installation & Final Inspection
The installation itself will require work performed in the home’s electrical panel to connect the battery to pre-selected circuits. It may be necessary to install a new main electrical panel if the home’s current panel cannot accommodate the battery. This is also covered by the program. The installation will take 1-2 full workdays to perform. RHA subcontractors will schedule an inspection within a week of completed installation, contingent on Inspector’s schedule.
Step 5 – Interconnection & Permission to Operate
The PG&E Interconnection team reviews all new battery storage and solar projects to safely interconnect energy storage systems to the PG&E electric grid. RHA drafts an Interconnection application (customer signature required) and pays a fee on behalf of the customer prior to battery installation. When the final inspection is approved, PG&E will grant Permission to Operate. Use of battery storage system after installation is not permitted until Permission to Operate is granted.
PG&E is your utility company providing electricity
We are taking strides to prevent wildfires and support customer resiliency throughout our territory. This program is one of these efforts.
Richard Heath & Associates (RHA) is a trusted partner of PG&E
RHA supports energy-efficiency, low-income and battery programs. They have trained installers for this program.
When you enroll to receive this free battery, you will also be enrolled in the PG&E Power Saver Rewards program (if you’re not enrolled already). You can earn money and help California avoid power interruptions by reducing energy consumption during specific times of day.
Participation in PG&E’s Power Saver Rewards Program is required. It is a demand-response program that notifies customers to reduce their electricity consumption during critical times to support the grid.
If you are eligible, you will have received a letter or phone call about this offer from RHA. Complete the form below and a representative from RHA will contact you. Be sure to enter your Customer ID (offer code) located in the bottom of your letter:
We offer generator and battery rebates to help prepare you for outages.
Learn how to create an emergency plan that could keep you and your family safe.
If you have any questions regarding the Battery Storage Initiative, call RHA at 559-500-3550 or email pgeresidentialstorage@rhainc.com.