Get in touch

9/18/25

How Does the NEM 3.0 Application Work?

When you apply for solar or add a battery in PG&E’s territory, your contractor (like Ally Electric and Solar Inc.) files an Interconnection Application. This is how it works:

  1. Submit Interconnection Application

    • System details (panels, inverters, batteries) are entered into PG&E’s portal.

    • Required documents: site plan, single-line diagram, spec sheets.

  2. PG&E Review

    • PG&E checks that your system complies with Rule 21 interconnection standards.

    • They confirm system size, safety ratings, and that your main panel can handle the system.

  3. Permission to Operate (PTO)

    • Once approved and inspected, PG&E issues PTO.

    • This is the official green light for you to run your solar + storage system and start receiving NEM 3.0 credits.

What Does This Mean for Homeowners?

Under NEM 3.0:

  • Payback is longer without storage → Solar alone saves less because export credits are lower.

  • Solar + Battery is the new standard → A battery allows you to store daytime power and use it at night, making your system pay off faster.

  • Energy Security → Batteries provide backup power during PG&E outages.

How Ally Electric and Solar Inc. Can Help

At Ally Electric and Solar Inc. (Richmond, CA – CSLB #806465), we’ve guided hundreds of Bay Area families through the PG&E application process. We handle:

  • Preparing and submitting your NEM 3.0 interconnection application.

  • Designing systems that maximize self-consumption under new rules.

  • Installing trusted batteries like Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ, FranklinWH.

  • Panel upgrades and permitting for seamless integration.

Take Action Now

The sooner you apply, the sooner you can lock in savings and protect your home from rising PG&E rates.

Contact us today to get started with your NEM 3.0 solar + storage consultation.

510-559-7700
info@allyelectricandsolar.com
www.allyelectricandsolar.com
CSLB License #806465

FQAs

1. If I sell excess energy to PG&E, will PG&E charge me for it?

No — PG&E does not charge you for exporting your excess solar energy. Instead, under NEM 3.0, they give you export credits on your bill. The difference is that these credits are now much lower (around 5–8¢ per kWh) compared to the near-retail credits homeowners received under NEM 2.0. That’s why using your own solar energy or storing it in a battery provides greater savings than sending it back to the grid.

2. Will I still get the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit under NEM 3.0?

Yes. The 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is completely separate from NEM policies. It applies to both solar and battery systems installed through the end of 2025.

3. Is it still worth going solar under NEM 3.0?

Yes — but the strategy has changed. Solar alone saves less than it used to because export credits are lower. Pairing solar with a battery system allows you to store your extra energy and use it during expensive peak hours, which dramatically improves your savings.

4. Can I keep my old NEM 2.0 plan if I already have solar?

Yes. If your system was approved under NEM 2.0, you are grandfathered into that program for 20 years from your Permission to Operate (PTO) date. However, adding new solar capacity may trigger a new NEM 3.0 review. Adding only a battery (without increasing solar size) usually does not change your NEM 2.0 status.

5. How long does the NEM 3.0 application take?

After submitting your application and documents, PG&E typically takes 2–4 weeks to review. Once the city inspection is complete and passes, PG&E issues your Permission to Operate (PTO).

6. Can I charge my battery from the grid under NEM 3.0?

Yes, depending on the configuration. Systems like Tesla Powerwall and Enphase IQ Battery can be set to allow or prevent grid charging. Most homeowners in PG&E territory choose “solar-only charging” to comply with NEM requirements and maximize savings.

7. What happens if I use more electricity than my solar produces?

You’ll still receive energy from PG&E, and you’ll be billed at normal rates for that extra usage. Your solar + battery system helps reduce this by covering as much of your home’s load as possible.


Metin Saglam Metin Saglam

The World’s First Inverter That Charges an Electric Vehicle

EV CHARGER INVERTER

We have been installing SolarEdge EV Charging Single Phase Inverter since it came out this year.

We love this EV Charging Inverter as our customers saves thousand of dollars by combining two in one; an inverter and ev charger. It reduces the hassle of installing separately a standalone EV Charger and a PV Inverter. It eliminates the additional wiring, conduit and breaker installation. It also eliminates the additional dedicated circuit breaker which saves space and helps us avoid potential main panel upgrade.

Full Visibility and Control

The SolarEdge EV charging single phase inverter supports full network connectivity and integrates seamlessly with the SolarEdge monitoring platform. Homeowners can track their charging status, control vehicle charging, and set charging schedules. Monitoring features include:

  • Smart-scheduling for use with Time of Use (TOU) rates — charge from the grid during off-peak hours

  • Track solar, EV, and grid consumption for visibility and control of household energy usage

  • Remote operation via mobile app — turn charging on and off

  • View charging duration, charge energy, and percent charge from solar

  • Easy inverter commissioning directly through your smartphone using the SetApp mobile application

Whether you own an EV now or just want to be EV-ready, future-proof your home with SolarEdge.

 

Read More