Residential Battery Rebate Program
Power Up and Reduce Electricity Costs with a Home Battery
3CE’s Residential Battery Rebate Program helps customers manage their energy consumption and save money by storing electricity during the day (when costs are lower) for use during off-peak hours (“load shifting”). Adding battery backup can protect your home from outages and helps strengthen the electric grid. A battery can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
BENEFITS OF A HOME BATTERY SYSTEM
- Take control of your energy and use cleaner power
- Use less grid power when prices are higher
- Keep the lights on when the power is out
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
- Program participants must program their battery to discharge at least 50% of its capacity daily during peak hours (4 PM to 9 PM PT).
- Exceptions to discharge requirements will be reviewed based on individual customer needs.
- For a full list of program requirements, see the Eligibility tab.
ADDITIONAL INCENTIVES
Your 3CE rebate can also be combined with other available rebates; see the Resources tab above for details.
Who is Eligible?
All residential 3CE customers are eligible for the program. Existing 3CE customers enrolled in a Net Energy Metering rate must switch to the Solar Billing Plan. Current Net Energy Metering customers are not eligible for a rebate if they remain on their Net Energy Metering contract. Click here for details on the Solar Billing Plan. If you are unsure whether you are a Net Energy Metering customer, please call 3CE’s Energy Advisors at 1-877-455-2223.
Please note that if you elect to leave Net Energy Metering 1.0 or 2.0 before your grandfathering period ends, you will be permanently transitioned to the Solar Billing Plan for both energy generation and energy transmission and distribution services.
A “battery system” is defined as any number of battery modules connected to an individual residential meter.
The battery and/or applicant must meet the following requirements:
- The battery must be programmed to discharge at least 50% of its capacity daily during peak hours (4 PM to 9 PM PT).
- Exceptions to discharge requirements will be reviewed based on individual customer needs.
- The battery system must be installed in the eligible installation window.
- Applications for systems given permission to operate between August 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026 must be submitted by September 30, 2026.
- The battery system must be permanently installed at site address; portable batteries are not currently eligible.
- Battery System Capacity:
- The battery system must have a capacity between 5 kWh to 26 kWh. Battery installations that exceed 26 kWh may participate but will not receive a rebate beyond the maximum.
- The battery type must be on the California Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)’s Verified Equipment List or the California Energy Commission (CEC)’s Solar Equipment List.
- As part of the application process, the account holder must enroll in load-shift tracking with Texture and agree to allow 3CE to track battery load shifting.
- Applicants must list all other rebates applied to their battery purchase and installation.
Multifamily housing:
- Multifamily units will be evaluated on a per-unit basis. Applicants must have an individual meter; master electric meters are not currently eligible for this battery program.
Rebates
Total rebate amount (including other received rebates and 3CE incentives) will not exceed total purchase and installation cost Your 3CE rebate can also be combined with other available rebates; see the Resources tab above for details.
Qualifying expenses covered by the rebate:
• Purchase of a battery(s)
• Purchase of qualifying installation hardware
• Battery system Installation labor (costs must be directly related to the installation of the battery system)
Rebates:
| $300 per kWh |
| $500 per kWh |
| * 3CE customers who move from a legacy Net Energy Metering 1.0 or 2.0 tariff to the new Solar Billing Plan at least one full billing cycle prior to the expiration of their “grandfathering” period will receive the higher $500 per kWh rebate. Rebates are limited to one per account for batteries sized up to 26 kWh. Battery installations that exceed 26 kWh may participate but will not receive a rebate beyond the maximum. | |
Steps
Be sure to review all program requirements listed on the Eligibility tab.
Review your most recent energy bill to confirm that “3CE Electric Generation Charges” are included in the statement – this verifies you are a 3CE customer.
Purchase your eligible residential battery system and set up to discharge at least 50% daily between 4 PM and 9 PM.
Gather relevant information and the following supporting documentation for your application:
- Battery make and model
- Battery capacity (kWh)
- Permission to Operate Letter or Email (this was sent to you from PG&E or SCE)
- Invoice from contactor with proof of payment
- Any additional rebates you are applying for (these may be included in the invoice from your contractor)
- If applicable, a copy of your 1040 tax form to prove income qualification (this may be required if you are applying for the income-qualified adder)
Submit online application.
Enroll in load-shift tracking software with 3CE partner Texture.
- After application is submitted, customer will click “Step 2” to complete the battery registration with Texture. Rebate will not be issued until 3CE has verified the battery system is meeting 50% daily discharge requirement between 4 PM and 9 PM PT.
3CE processes your application and will notify you of your application status.
Receive your rebate check in the mail!
Virtual Power Plant
3CE is currently developing a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) that will provide real-time dispatch, improve grid reliability, and support 3CE’s decarbonization goals. The goal is to reduce peak demand and energy costs to customers.
When launched, 3CE’s Virtual Power Plant will qualify as a Demand Response Program.
What is a Virtual Power Plant?
A residential Virtual Power Plant (VPP) is a collection of smart appliances, such as battery systems, EV chargers, and thermostats, that are located in different households. When you join a VPP, the network tells your connected smart devices the best time of day to save or to use energy. Your smart devices may also send energy back to the grid to reduce stress at times of peak demand and help lower energy costs for customers. Energy is most expensive and least renewable when demand is at its peak, and the VPP helps to shift load from the grid during these hours.
More information will be provided to participating customers in Fall 2026.
Resources
Self-Generation Incentive Program
The California Public Utility Commission’s Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides financial incentives for the installation of new qualifying technologies that are installed to meet all or a portion of the electric energy needs of a facility. The purpose of the SGIP is to lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduce stress on the electric grid and improve reliability of service.
Federal Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit
The Residential Clean Energy Credit equals 30% of the costs of new, qualified clean energy property for your home installed anytime from 2022 through 2032. The credit is nonrefundable, so the credit amount receive can’t exceed the amount owed in tax, but any unused credit can be carried forward and applied in future years. Battery storage technology must have a capacity of at least 3 kWh.
PG&E Generator and Battery Rebate Program
To help customers prepare for outages, PG&E offers generator and battery rebates. This support is available for customers who are (1) located in Tier 2 or 3 High Fire-Threat Districts; and (2) serviced by an Enhanced Power Safety Settings (EPSS) circuit. The rebate is $300 per qualified customer. If you participate in PG&E’s CARE or FERA programs, you may receive an additional $200.
Emergency Load Reduction Program
The Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP) pays customers for voluntarily reducing energy use during electrical grid emergencies. Within 3CE’s service area, the ELRP is managed by PG&E and SCE, which handle enrollment, event communication, and compensation. The program is called upon only as a last resort. The residential component of the ELRP is called Power Saver Rewards.
Battery Discharge Scheduling
Program participants must program their battery to discharge at least 50% of its capacity daily during peak hours (4 PM to 9 PM PT). For your convenience, participants can opt into automated scheduling through Texture.
- Eligibility: 3CE residential customers applying to the Residential Battery Rebate Program are eligible.
- How it works: Scheduling will help your battery discharge to your minimum reserve level; please set this within your battery settings through your manufacturer app or online portal. By selecting the default schedule or customizing a schedule based on your preferred time of day and time window, you can ensure your battery discharges during the program hours of 4 PM-9 PM PT, Monday through Sunday.
- Observing device-specific settings: Texture will never override your battery’s default battery backup reserve or storm watch settings.
- Removing a schedule: You can deactivate your schedule at any time. Customers can opt in or out of schedule at any time.
Scheduling FAQs
Am I eligible for scheduling assistance?
3CE residential customers applying for the Residential Battery Rebate Program are eligible. Currently, Scheduling is available to support customers that install Tesla batteries.
How do I sign up for scheduling?
You can set up your battery schedule here.
Please provide the customer email address associated with your application.
How does scheduling work?
3CE’s Rebate Schedule automates load shifting for your battery, allowing it to discharge by 50% to the grid between 4:00 PM-9:00 PM PST, Monday through Sunday.
By activating, customer sets preferred schedule days and times based on the program’s preferences. Scheduling helps the battery discharge to a customer’s set minimum reserve level; customers can set this within the battery settings through their manufacturer’s app or online portal. On days that scheduling is activated, the battery system will discharge at 4:00 PM PST to the set reserve level.
Can I opt out of my battery scheduling?
You can deactivate your schedule at any time by visiting here.
Customers can opt in or out of schedule at any time. By opting out of 3CE’s battery rebate schedule, you will remain enrolled in 3CE’s battery rebate program, and Texture will continue monitoring your device data.
Why is the program paused?
In the last six months, RBRP has supported more than 600 customers with over $3 million in rebates for installing battery systems and load shifting during peak hours. 3CE is comprehensively reviewing the program and available budget options through the end of our fiscal year.
When will the program reopen?
3CE is evaluating potential program options in April 2026 and will communicate updates as soon as direction is finalized.
I already submitted an application for the program prior to pause. What does this mean for my rebate?
Any complete applications submitted before the pause will remain in the application queue for consideration with rebate amounts listed on 3CE’s website. Please note that customers must have received their PTO to be considered a completed application.
I have a battery project in progress. What does this mean for my rebate?
The program is currently paused for new applications. 3CE is evaluating potential program options and will communicate updates as soon as direction is finalized.
I have additional questions. Who can I contact?
For more information or assistance, please contact:
Customer Service: 1-877-455-2223
Customers in the PG&E service area: NorthSupport@3CE.org
Customers in the SCE service area: SouthSupport@3CE.org
For additional support, please contact 3CE Energy Advisors at 1-877-455-2223
Program Terms & Conditions
By submitting this application, APPLICANT agrees to the following terms and conditions:
- APPLICANT must be a 3CE residential customer residing at an address within 3CE’s service territory.
- APPLICANT agrees to release, indemnify, defend, and hold harmless 3CE and its agents, employees, and/or representatives from all claims, demands, and liabilities, including bodily injury claims, arising out of or in connection with the APPLICANT’s participation in the Program. Neither 3CE nor APPLICANT shall be liable to the other for incidental, special, punitive or consequential damages.
- Submittal of this Application does not commit 3CE to any financial obligation to APPLICANT. 3CE will only commit to award funds to APPLICANT upon written confirmation that all program eligibility conditions are met and all required documents and information pertaining to this Application have been provided to 3CE. The Program is on a first-come, first served basis until funding is depleted.
- 3CE reserves the right to discontinue the Program at any time for any or no reason and remove all available, non-reserved funds.
- 3CE reserves the right to change the requirements and/or due dates.
- 3CE reserves the right to consider factors other than those specified within this Application and to request additional information from APPLICANT that are pertinent to the Program.
- 3CE reserves the right to reject any or all applications received in relation to the Program.
- 3CE does not issue a 1099 for the rebate and 3CE cannot offer tax advice of any kind. It is APPLICANT’S responsibility to contact a tax professional regarding the
taxability of the provided rebate. - APPLICANT agrees to remain enrolled in 3CE service for a minimum of 24 consecutive months following the battery purchase date.
- Any dispute arising out of or relating to these Terms shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State of California, without reference to its conflicts of law provisions. Any dispute, or claim arising out of relating to this Agreement, or breach thereof shall be venued in Monterey County.
- These terms may be modified at any time in accordance with any legal or regulatory directive.
- APPLICANT certifies that all information provided as part of this Application, including any attachments, are true and correct.
- APPLICANT certifies that the installed battery system was purchased new and unused. Battery systems categorized as resale units, rebuilt, refurbished, or worn do
not qualify under this program. APPLICANT must present proof of purchase, and any other requested documentation to 3CE in order to qualify. Battery system must be installed and utilized residentially in accordance with eligibility guidelines stated on the website at time of application submission. - APPLICANT certifies the following: I verify the battery system works, and I know how to operate it and maintain it in a safe and reliable manner. I agree to follow the Manufacturer’s operational instructions, specifications, obtain any requisite permits, consents and comply with relevant laws, regulations, and building codes and standards required to operate and install the battery system.
- APPLICANT agrees to discharge at least 50% of battery system capacity daily between the hours of 4:00PM and 9:00PM for the life of the battery system.
- APPLICANT agrees to enroll in Texture’s battery performance tracking program and remain enrolled for the life of the battery, or similar tracking system approved by 3CE. APPLICANT grants 3CE access and rights to data collected via the tracking system for purposes of research, evaluation, monitoring, and reporting. APPLICANT agrees to Texture’s or similar tracking system’s privacy and data collection policy in order to participate in the program.
- APPLICANT certifies that APPLICANT has disclosed any additional funding anticipated or received to fund the battery system’s purchase and installation.
For Contractors:
- Contractors must first enroll in the TECH Clean California program before applying for incentives. Find a licensed contractor or ask your local contractor to sign up for TECH Clean California’s program to access these cash incentives.
For Contractors:
For Residents:
Frequently Asked Questions
Before I commit – what are the program requirements?
A “battery system” is defined as any number of battery modules connected to an individual residential meter.
The battery and/or applicant must meet the following requirements:
- The battery must be programmed to discharge at least 50% of its capacity daily during peak hours (4 PM to 9 PM PT).
- Exceptions to discharge requirements will be reviewed based on individual customer needs.
- The battery system must be installed in the eligible installation window.
- Applications for installations made between August 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026 must be submitted by September 30, 2026.
- 3CE will update customers every summer about upcoming eligibility date changes. Eligibility dates will change again on October 1, 2026.
- The battery system must be permanently installed at site address; portable batteries are not currently eligible.
- Battery System Capacity:
- The battery system must have a capacity between 5 kWh to 26 kWh. Battery installations that exceed 26 kWh may participate but will not receive a rebate beyond the maximum.
- The battery type must be on the California Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)’s Verified Equipment List or CEC’s Solar Equipment Program List.
- As part of the application process, the account holder must enroll in load-shift tracking with Texture and agree to allow 3CE to track battery load shifting.
- Applicants must list all other rebates applied to their battery purchase and installation.
Multifamily housing:
- Multifamily units will be evaluated on a per-unit basis. Applicants must have an individual meter; master electric meters are not currently eligible for this battery program.
Am I eligible for this program?
3CE residential customers on our Solar Billing Plan are eligible.
3CE customers who do not have their own energy generation system are eligible for the base incentive.
3CE customers on CARE/FERA/Medical Baseline are eligible for an additional $200 per kWh of battery capacity.
How can I tell if I am on Net Energy Metering 1.0, Net Energy Metering 2.0, or the Solar Billing Plan?
Customers whose interconnection agreement was approved by PG&E or SCE after April 14, 2023, are on 3CE’s Solar Billing Plan.
Customers will move to the Solar Billing Plan once their 20-year period on Net Energy Metering 1.0 or 2.0 concludes.
Customers will move to the Solar Billing Plan if their 20-year period ends early (system oversizing, choice to move to the Solar Billing Plan, etc.).
How do I switch from Net Energy Metering 1.0 or 2.0 to the Solar Billing Plan?
You can change your tariff by contacting your account representative at PG&E or SCE.
Customers who choose to leave NEM 1.0/2.0 will be permanently transitioned to the Solar Billing Plan for both energy generation and energy transmission and distribution services.
Can I switch back to Net Energy Metering 1.0 or 2.0 after switching to the Solar Billing Plan after I receive this rebate?
Once an account has been switched to the Solar Billing Plan, it cannot be switched back.
Should I leave NEM 1.0 or NEM 2.0 early to receive a higher incentive through the Residential Battery Rebate Program?
Due to each customer’s unique and varied generation needs, 3CE cannot provide specific advice on this topic.
We recommend that you compare the tariffs and confer with your solar installer.
Can I stack this rebate with others?
Yes! 3CE customers are encouraged to apply for additional rebates include those with PG&E and the Self Generation Incentive Program (SGIP). See the Resources tab above for details.
How long will it take to receive my check in the mail?
What is the minimum and maximum battery capacity for this program?
Applicants before 4/1/2026: 5 kWh to 26 kWh. Battery installations over 26 kWh will receive the maximum rebate amount (3CE will incentivize up to 26 kWh, even if the actual battery is larger).
Applications on/after 4/1/2026: 5 kWh to 15 kWh. Battery installations over 15 kWh will receive the maximum rebate amount (3CE will incentivize up to 15 kWh, even if the actual battery is larger).
Can I purchase multiple batteries and receive a rebate?
The rebate is limited to 26 kWh per account for applicants before 4/1/2026 and to 15kWh per account for applicants on/after 4/1/2026. An applicant may apply for multiple rebates under the same account, up to the program limit.
Does my battery have to be a certain brand?
The rebate is offered for all batteries on the SGIP’s Verified Equipment list or the CEC’s Solar Equipment list.
Does my battery have to be installed by a certain contractor?
The battery must be installed by a contractor licensed in California. 3CE recommends searching for solar installers in your area.
Does 3CE provide rebates for solar installation?
3CE does not provide a rebate for solar installations.
Can I receive a rebate if I purchased by battery before August 2025?
No, rebates are available only for systems purchased after August 2025.
How will the information collected by the monitoring system be used?
Data will be used to evaluate effectiveness of program and guide further program development in accordance with 3CE’s Privacy Policy.
Applicants will need to enroll in the load-shift tracking program with 3CE’s partner, Texture. Enrollment is quick and easy, simply log into your battery manufacturer account through Texture’s enrollment portal.
3CE will be able to see basic battery data such as charge and discharge rate, charge status, battery output, etc. The data will be used to ensure the battery is discharging daily per the program requirements and monitor program performance for evaluation purposes. 3CE cannot control your battery system.
What happens if I do not discharge half my battery capacity during peak hours?
It is unlikely that your power needs during peak hours will be less than half your battery capacity. Program participants who consistently fail to meet this requirement may be contacted by a 3CE representative to help ensure the battery is properly set according to the program.
All discharge requirements will be suspended in the event of a power outage to ensure the full capacity of the battery can be used for backup power.