San Diego launches ambitious solar battery savings program

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the progress and challenges of the San Diego Community Power's solar battery savings program, highlighting its significant uptake and the need for improved customer communication regarding billing.

Emily Fisher, Senior Program Manager, provided an update on the program, which aims to incentivize solar storage growth in response to the net billing tariff. The program has seen a strong start, with over 1,500 applications received since its launch, including 500 within the first 24 hours. Currently, 1100 projects have been approved, with an 85% approval rate, and the program is expected to exhaust its budget of $11.5 million by mid-November.

Fisher noted that 32% of the approved projects are aimed at communities of concern, with a goal to increase this to 50%. The program has also led to a notable increase in battery sales among local contractors, with one reporting a 950% increase since the program's launch.

However, several committee members raised concerns about the visibility of the San Diego Community Power on customer bills. Many customers reported difficulty in identifying their participation in the Power 100 program, prompting calls for better communication with SDG&E to ensure that customers are aware of their energy sources. Officials acknowledged ongoing negotiations with SDG&E to enhance this visibility.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue refining the program and addressing customer feedback, particularly regarding billing clarity and the promotion of community power initiatives.