Reliability Battery Initiative

For a limited time, PG&E is partnering with Richard Heath & Associates (RHA), now a part of Resource Innovations, to install a free battery storage system in your home. RHA is a trusted partner of PG&E and have trained installers for this initiative. The value of the free installation is more than $10,000. 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 Reliability Battery Initiative, we are providing free permanent back-up battery systems. The free batteries support specific customers who are most vulnerable to power outages. 

As a customer who is on a circuit that has experienced more than average reliability issues, you have been identified as an impacted customer. A free home battery through the initiative should provide power to your important circuits and appliances through most outages.

For a limited time, eligible customers can have a 10-15 kWh battery storage system installed in their homes at no cost. The value of the no-cost installation is more than $10,000. Battery storage can:

• Store energy from the grid so you can use it anytime during an outage.
• Extend your home’s electrical power for 3-5 hours during an outage.^* Depending on your energy use, it should provide enough power for the duration of most outages that occur in your area.

_{*Backup power duration depends on your essential energy needs and how much power you use during an outage.}

Step 1 – Outreach and prequalification
The RHA staff will perform outreach to PG&E’s established customer list and conduct a survey to determine prequalification status.

Step 2 – Site Assessments

• RHA subcontractors will schedule site assessments to validate survey responses. They also will identify circuits for the battery to support during an outage.
• A field technician will assess the customer’s property and electrical panel(s). The assessment will determine battery location, document meter information, and collect any other relevant documentation.

 Note: Be sure to let RHA know if your home has Solar.

Step 3 – Permitting
Obtaining permits to install the battery may take several weeks or more. The timing will depend 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 and final inspection 
The installation will require work in the home’s electrical panel to connect the battery to pre-selected circuits. The installation will take 1-2 full working days. RHA subcontractors will schedule an inspection.

Step 5 – Interconnection and permission to operate
The PG&E team reviews all new battery storage and solar projects. The review ensures the energy storage systems safely interconnect to PG&E’s electric grid. RHA drafts an interconnection application that will require the customer’s signature. RHA 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. After installation, use of the battery storage system is not permitted until permission to operate is granted.

PG&E is your utility company providing electricity. We are taking strides to support customer resiliency throughout our service area. This initiative is one of these efforts.

Richard Heath & Associates (RHA), now a part of Resource Innovations, is a trusted partner of PG&E. RHA supports energy efficiency, low-income and battery programs. They have trained installers for this initiative.

PG&E designed a Demand Response Program to enable customers to contribute to energy load reduction during times of peak demand.

Most PG&E Demand Response Programs also offer financial incentives for load reduction during times of peak demand.