Wattsmart Program FAQs.

Where can I learn more about how to apply for the Wattsmart Battery Program?

The Wattsmart Program is managed by Rocky Mountain Power and all applications must be approved by their program team.  You can learn more about the application process by visiting https://www.rockymountainpower.net/savings-energy-choices/wattsmart-battery-program.html.

Will participating in the program negatively impact my battery?

Rocky Mountain Power will have the ability to turn the battery on and off, as such participation in the program should not negatively impact your battery beyond what it is designed to do. Please consult with the battery manufacturer to fully understand how their specific battery will perform over time. 

What are the incentives for enrolling a battery and participating in the program?

Program participants are eligible for upfront enrollment incentives and ongoing monthly bill credits.

Incentives will be reviewed periodically and may change at any time with a 30-day notice.

Will batteries provide power to my home if there is a power outage?

Batteries are capable of supplying backup power during outages, although your specific installation needs to be designed to provide backup power. Please consult with your battery installer and ensure it will meet your expectations.  

How does the program utilize batteries to manage the grid?

The program aggregates all the participating batteries and provides an energy resource large enough to provide energy when it is needed most. Excess solar energy is used to charge the batteries during the middle of the day then that energy is used later in the evening or mornings. In addition, the batteries can be called upon when there is a larger system need to manage voltage to keep the grid stable for everyone.  

How are batteries charged?

At this time batteries need to be charged by customers' onsite solar generation. This is needed due to qualifications for tax credits, although we expect this to change in the future and will work with stakeholders on how the program should evolve to include charging from the grid.

Is onsite solar generation required to participate in the program?

Yes, batteries integrated into customer onsite solar generation is required to participate in the Wattsmart Battery program. We anticipate this may change as the program matures. 

If I already have a battery installed can I participate?

Yes, if your current battery is a Sonnen battery you can enroll in the program, although you will not be able to receive the upfront enrollment incentive. You will be eligible to receive the annual participation bill credit. The enrollment incentive is available for batteries purchased and installed after the effective date of the program.  

I previously installed solar, can I add a battery and participate?

Yes, if you are an existing solar customer and install an eligible battery you can receive an enrollment incentive and annual incentives. Your participation in the Wattsmart Battery program, will not impact your current net metering/customer generation rate.

Can I request to be removed from the program?

Yes, customers can be removed from the program after providing 30-day advance notification to Rocky Mountain Power. If you decide to withdraw from the program during your commitment period, you will be required to payback a prorated portion of the incentive to Rocky Mountain Power based on the length of time you participated in the program.

Will I have to pay back the incentive?

As long as you participate through the commitment period of four years and maintain your battery with our system, you will not have to pay back the incentive. You must also maintain your internet connection to the battery so we can communicate with it. If we are unable to communicate with the battery at any point during participation, we will notify you to fix it. If it is not fixed, you will be required to pay back a prorated portion of the incentive.  

Is there a cap to the size of battery eligible to participate in the program?

Yes, currently the maximum battery eligible to participate is 30 kW. We expect this cap to change in the future.

What type of customers are a good fit for this program?

The best candidates are customers who are early adopters of technology, energy conscious and want to make a positive impact on the environment with renewable energy. This innovative program is in its infancy and will evolve over time. Customers who do not wish to be part of a continually evolving program should not participate. 

Will the battery qualify for tax credits?

We are not qualified to provide tax advice, please consult with your tax professional for how you may qualify. Our limited understanding is that a residential battery must be installed with and charged solely by an onsite solar array, while commercial batteries need to be charged by at least 75% from an onsite solar array. 

Does Rocky Mountain Power intend to have the batteries charged by the grid?

Due to the tax credit rules we do not intend to have the batteries charged by the grid until there is an allowable exception and a need to do so.

Do all batteries qualify to receive an incentive and participate in the program?

No, for a battery to qualify for the incentive, battery manufacturers must apply and be accepted for their batteries to participate. The incentive amount is based upon batteries being able to connect to our system and meet the requirements for participation. We are hopeful multiple battery manufacturers will work with us to innovate for the future and pave the way for greater utility integration of batteries. 

Does Rocky Mountain Power require the use of “approved” installers?

No. Customers are able to work with any installer they choose; however, we strongly suggest working with installers who have been certified by the battery manufacturer.  Incentives are contingent upon the batteries having a successful connection with our system.

Can any battery qualify for the program?

No. For us to justify paying an incentive, the batteries must be able to connect to our system. This will require battery manufacturers to work with us to create a working connection to our system. 

What batteries qualify for the program?

At this time, Sonnen Core, Sonnen Eco, and Sonnen EcoLinx batteries qualify for the program.

How often will Rocky Mountain Power control my battery?

When conditions are right, Rocky Mountain Power may utilize the battery on a daily basis.  

What if I move before my commitment period is complete?

You will be required to payback a prorated portion of your incentive. The commitment period is four years. As an example, if you stop participating after two years, you will be responsible for paying back 50% of the incentive amount. Alternatively, we will accept a transfer form to the new owner, if they agree to their responsibility for continued participation.

Can I install a used battery?

No, to be eligible for the Wattsmart Battery Program upfront incentive, batteries must be new equipment.

Will batteries have a reserve percentage to be used for emergency power outages?

Yes, Rocky Mountain Power will not discharge batteries below 10%.

Will my battery be controlled all year?

Batteries will not be controlled daily from November through February. From November through February batteries may only be used by Rocky Mountain Power for grid emergencies. Batteries may be utilized daily by Rocky Mountain Power from March through October.

How low will my battery be discharged?

During the first year of the program, batteries will not be discharged below 50%. After the first year of the program, the minimum percentage will be re-evaluated.