As more states aim to ramp up their energy storage capabilities, Solar United Neighbors (SUN) has unveiled an initiative that could simplify the expansion of solar battery distribution programs nationwide.
With growing interest in transitioning from pilot projects to large-scale distributed power plant (DPP) programs, SUN’s latest
move offers local governments a tool to kickstart legislative action, aiming to make solar batteries widely accessible through incentives. By drafting model legislation for state governments to use, SUN is transforming the way local governments can pursue energy distribution and grid management.
Giving the Boost Needed to Move Beyond Pilot Programs
Currently, solar battery distribution programs in many states exist in a fragmented, pilot-project phase. Often, these are very
limited in scope and lack the structured frameworks necessary for expansion. Large-scale rollouts of distributed battery
incentives are therefore a big leap.
SUN aims to address these challenges directly by offering model language and an organized framework that local
governments can adopt and adapt. The non-profit has provided states with a legislative template to help them draft the bills necessary to bring solar battery incentives to a broader range of residents.
Additionally, they’ve drafted a model approach for states to advance distributed power plants (DPPs)—aggregations of behind-the-meter distributed energy resources
(DERs) like solar batteries—into standard, regulated programs that utilities can operate.
The model policy and approach were made to tear down obstacles that have historically slowed down DPP adoption, such as inconsistent regulatory policies
and the need for standardized operating practices across jurisdictions. These templates provide the necessary blueprint for
utilities to operate DPPs within existing energy systems, enabling DERs to contribute to peak load reduction, grid resiliency,
and other essential services in coordination with local utilities.
As each state will face unique regulatory conditions and energy needs, SUN’s model legislation is designed to be flexible.
Local governments can adjust details to reflect their specific energy goals and policy structures, allowing similar programs to be implemented across diverse regulatory landscapes. States will be able to design DPP programs that integrate smoothly with local energy policies, grid structures, and community energy needs.
Building a Foundation for Widespread Solar Battery Incentives
Traditionally, crafting effective legislation requires extensive research, resources, and regulatory navigation—challenges
that have often left state legislators struggling to put forward comprehensive bills. SUN’s model policy simplifies the task by outlining definitions, program requirements, and eligibility criteria that state officials can use to draft bills with little extra research.
The policy establishes clear parameters around essential components, such as:
Grid Events and Grid Services: These define when batteries are used to support grid operations, from frequency regulation to peak load shaving, ensuring the DERs provide energy precisely when the grid needs it most.
Compensation Models: By providing examples of performance payment structures, the model ensures that compensation for battery owners is transparent and consistent, with no hidden disincentives for participation.
Low-Income Customer Incentives: Acknowledging the need for equitable access, the model includes provisions for higher upfront payments for low- and moderate-income (LMI) customers, as well as those in environmental justice communities.
With these provisions, SUN’s model legislation empowers states to structure solar battery incentive programs around
transparent compensation and performance metrics, making it easier for DERs to participate effectively within the grid.
Moreover, the framework empowers third-party aggregators to help streamline customer enrollment, enabling a seamless
process for those looking to join. By standardizing the participation process, the model also aims to encourage private investments, reducing utility reliance on fossil fuel-powered peaker plants during high-demand periods and ultimately lowering costs for all ratepayers.
Grid Freedom: Solar Lead Generators Help Contractors
Succeed Despite Policy Barriers
While SUN is working to make pro-solar battery incentives accessible across the country, many states are still a long way from
rolling out supportive policies. For solar installation contractors, this means operating in what is often a challenging environment.
However, that doesn’t mean contractors are left to fend for themselves. Grid Freedom provides essential support by delivering
high-quality, pre-qualified solar leads, helping contractors grow their businesses and reach interested homeowners,
regardless of current policy limitations.
In a market where many states still lack robust solar programs, connecting with ready-to-buy customers becomes essential.
Grid Freedom pre-screens and delivers exclusive solar company leads, giving contractors an edge by ensuring they’re
engaging with homeowners who are prepared to move forward.
As more states adopt policies based on SUN’s model legislation, the demand for solar battery installations is bound to grow.
In the meantime, contractors can stay competitive with the steady pipeline of opportunities that Grid Freedom offers.
This partnership will lay the groundwork for a thriving business when more solar-friendly policies arrive.