CPUC aims to expand solar access for low-income Californians with new program

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — The California Public Utilities Commission has introduced a $280 million program to assist low-income households in installing solar panels and battery storage.

Officials with the CPUC initiative aims to alleviate energy costs and enhance grid reliability.

Starting June 2, 2025, the Residential Storage and Solar Equity program will accept applications from eligible customers statewide.

According to the CPUC, the program’s incentives, combined with federal tax credits, are designed to cover installation costs fully.

Participants can access incentives through investor-owned utilities, publicly-owned utilities, or community choice aggregators. Customers must meet specific low-income criteria and work with an SGIP-approved developer to qualify.

Eligible households may receive up to $1,100 per kilowatt-hour for storage and $3,100 per kilowatt for solar installations.

Incentives apply to a 15-kWh battery and a 5-kW solar system, with options for additional incentives based on energy needs.

The CPUC says the new program promises to provide backup power during outages and lower energy bills for low-income residents, which will foster a more sustainable future.

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