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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

EV TAX CREDITS ARE SAFE for 2018

EV TAX CREDITS ARE SAFE FOR 2018 but if you are thinking about getting TESLA, the tax credit might be lowered as early as 2nd Quarter of 2018.

https://cleantechnica.com/2017/12/23/330000-tesla-model-3-us-reservation-holders-buyers-take-advantage-federal-ev-tax-credit/

https://cleanvehiclerebate.org/eng/eligibility-guidelines

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THE DOOR IS OPEN FOR PACE in ALAMEDA

One new and exciting opportunity for homeowners is now they can finance a Solar System through their property taxes! Now available in Alameda county and in most counties in the Bay Area the PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) program gives you the ability to finance certain energy upgrades to your home without having a credit check, no money down, and no banks. The payments will show up as another line on your property taxes and thus are 100% tax deductible! Also, if you decide to move down the road the payments will transfer to the new homeowner! This is a very exciting opportunity and a huge upsurge in Solar generation is expected to take place with more awareness on this financing program. Feel free to visit Californiafirst.org for more details and give us a call for FREE SOLAR ESTIMATE.

  • No CREDIT CHECK
  • NO Money DOWN
  • NO Banks

 

 

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