Sunrun, a leading provider of residential solar, battery storage, and solar energy-as-a-service, has partnered with Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) to allow its customers in California to share excess solar energy generated on their rooftops with their neighbors. This collaboration is aimed at enhancing grid resiliency during critical months of peak energy consumption, providing a sustainable solution to meet California’s high demand for electricity.

In an exclusive partnership with PG&E, Sunrun achieved its maximum enrollment and energy capacity goals of installing 7,500 new and existing residential solar-plus-storage systems and 30 MW in the Energy Efficiency Summer Reliability Program, also known as Peak Power Rewards. However, due to overwhelming interest and demand, the program was extended to accommodate 8,500 customers and 34 MW respectively.

The program enables Sunrun customers to contribute significant and flexible energy to support the grid from 7-9 p.m. every evening during peak energy demand months – August through October. By combining the power generated from residential rooftops, the initiative helps combat the challenges faced by the grid during high temperatures. Given California’s susceptibility to power disruptions, this program plays a vital role in strengthening the overall grid health.

Mary Powell, CEO of Sunrun, emphasizes the importance of fortifying the grid through partnerships with energy providers like PG&E. The integration of home storage into distributed power plants emerges as a highly valuable asset, offering enhanced energy resilience and security to customers and communities. With outages becoming increasingly common, this program extension demonstrates a commitment to empowering customers to become active participants in ensuring a reliable energy supply.

To be eligible for the Peak Power Rewards program, Sunrun solar and battery customers residing in single-family homes need to have an interconnection agreement with PG&E and should not be enrolled in other demand response programs. Participants will receive an upfront payment of $750 and a complimentary smart thermostat, further incentivizing their involvement in the program.

Sunrun’s collaboration with PG&E demonstrates their dedication to innovatively address the challenges faced by California’s electrical grid with sustainable solutions. By extending the program and including more customers, Sunrun enables California to tap into the unused solar energy generated by households, enhancing overall grid resiliency and ensuring a steady power supply during peak demand months. This partnership reinforces the significance of distributed power plants and furthers the goal of empowering communities to actively participate in creating a more sustainable future.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this research report is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial or investment advice. The energy market is highly volatile, and readers should conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions.