If you're anything like many of our clients before they hired us, you might be in the same boat when it comes to solar and battery backup storage – knowing just enough to realize there's a whole bunch you don't know.

Not to fret – it's perfectly normal! Here's the good news: we're a team of passionate solar and energy enthusiasts who not only know the ins and outs but also invest considerable time keeping up to date on the latest developments. So, rest assured, you're in capable hands.

This article will help you better understand the newly introduced Duke PowerPair program. We'll help you:

Learn how PowerPair is working to get solar panels and battery backup systems on homes in North Carolina.
With the basics of how to apply for the Duke PowerPair
How much PowerPair may be able to help you save (spoiler- it’s up to $9k!)

Better yet, if you’re ready to start your unique journey with our artisanal process (check out Lesson 3 of our solar school article here to learn just how customized our solar process is) reach out today.

The Duke PowerPair incentive stands as a noteworthy development in the realm of solar incentives, especially after the onslaught of policy changes North Carolina went through in 2023. Excitingly, this incentive provides homeowners with a valuable opportunity to adopt solar power and battery backup while reaping substantial financial advantages. Set to launch in the Spring of 2024, this initiative offers a strategic and financially rewarding avenue for those seeking to integrate solar energy into their homes and realize considerable savings, as the rising costs of electricity (some predicting up to 14%+ over the next 3 years) continue to impact people where it matters most, their finances.

At Sugar Hollow, we think there are so many more important things to spend money on than your power bill like things for your loved ones, or your hobbies, whether it's gardening, cooking, outdoor activities, etc. That's why we're especially enthusiastic about assisting anyone interested in staying informed and up-to-date on the upcoming steps in their solar journey.

What we know about Duke’s PowerPair so far:

Duke Energy's PowerPair program is like unlocking a treasure chest for homeowners eager to embrace renewable energy. Let's break down the goodies this program offers in a way that's easy to understand:

Solar and Battery Savings:

For every kilowatt(kW) of solar you install, you get 36 cents back. Think of it as a reward for soaking up the sun to power your home. There's a cap of 10kW, but that's still a sweet $3,600 incentive per residence.

For every kilowatt (kW) of battery storage, you get a $400 reward. Max it out at 13.5kWh, and you're looking at a cool $5,400. But here's the real magic – combine your solar panels and battery to the max, and voila! A generous $9,000 incentive.

It's crucial to mention that PowerPair requires a solar and battery combination specifically for initial installations. This implies that this offer is specifically for households without prior solar installations. However, if you're already using solar power and are interested in adding batteries, there are still excellent options available for you—simply reach out to us for more information.

Duke Energy has two options for participating in this incentive:

Group A: Be the Boss!

Imagine Group A as the VIP section of the PowerPair experience. Here, you're the captain of your energy ship. You get to enjoy a special Time-of-Use (TOU) rate. What does that mean? It's like having a customized energy plan where the cost of electricity varies based on the time of day. You're in control, deciding when to use energy to maximize your savings, meaning Duke will not have the ability to control or have access to your system.

Group B: Sharing the Reins with Duke Energy

Now, Group B is a bit different. It's like having a skilled co-pilot, and Duke Energy is taking on some responsibilities. You'll be under what is called the bridge rate, a different pricing structure. While you won't have as much direct control over the energy usage pricing, Duke Energy steps in to manage your battery for you. This can be handy during specific seasons when they might tweak things a bit to ensure optimal performance.

In a nutshell, A gives you the freedom to call the shots, adjusting your energy use to save more, while B is a collaborative effort where Duke Energy takes a bit of the load off your shoulders, especially concerning battery management during specific times. It's all about choosing the level of control and involvement that suits your preferences and lifestyle.

Powering Tomorrow: A Sustainable Journey with Solar and Battery Solutions

Despite PowerPair's 10-year commitment, it's crucial to acknowledge that many solar and battery warranties extend far beyond this period, ranging from 10 to 25 years. And while that may feel like a long time, we're well aware that solar is a long-term game. In fact, we embrace it. The enduring benefits it brings to the community, coupled with the potential to increase the value of your home (thanks to solar), make that 10-year commitment seem like a small part of the journey on the road to a brighter, more sustainable future. Plus, the beauty of solar is that you can transfer those warranties seamlessly when selling your house, adding even more value to your investment (Forbes has reported up to a 4% increase!). So we think it's a win-win for you and the community!

Why get started today:

Get set for action – the application window for the fortunate 6,000 homeowners kicked off on May 8, 2024 and the first round closed mid June. The next window is now open and is on a first come first serve basis. Another key point – to qualify for this incentive you'll need your solar design completed and interconnection approval from Duke. We’re here to help make the process as fast and easy as possible, but it is important to note these things do take time. It's best to start early since each personalized solar journey can take its time.

In a world where rising utility costs weigh heavily on household budgets, PowerPair arrives as a potential beacon of relief, as do many local, regional, and federal incentives. While we are starting to understand the importance of switching to renewables on a larger scale, these incentives are ultimately an invitation to redirect your hard-earned money from utility bills back into what truly matters – your hobbies, passions, and the activities that bring you joy. Imagine having more resources to invest in your garden, experiment with new recipes, or embark on exciting outdoor adventures. We hope to see that happen for you and all our community.