Solar Battery Storage on Long Island

Why Long Island homeowners add battery storage

There are three real reasons to add battery storage to a Long Island solar system: backup during PSEG Long Island outages, more control over when your solar energy is used, and (depending on PSEG rate plan) potential time-of-use savings.

PSEG Long Island has stated that battery storage gives homeowners more control over when their solar energy is used. That is the central pitch.

Sizing a battery for your home

Battery sizing depends on which loads you want to back up and for how long. A small battery sized for critical loads — refrigeration, sump or well pump, internet, and a few key circuits — is much cheaper than a battery sized to run an entire Long Island home through a multi-day storm outage. Both can be valid choices; they are just different choices. Battery backup is a planning option, not a guarantee of uninterrupted power; runtimes depend on system size and the loads you ask the battery to cover.

New install vs. retrofit

Adding battery storage during a new solar install is much simpler and usually cheaper than retrofitting an existing system. If you think you may want a battery later, the planning conversation flags it so your licensed local installer can size the inverter and electrical service from day one — even if the battery itself comes later.

PSEG Long Island Battery Storage Rewards

PSEG Long Island runs a Battery Storage Rewards program in which residential and commercial battery storage customers may participate. The program operates during a May 1 to September 30 window, and participants may receive annual payments through an aggregator. Specific terms depend on the aggregator and system performance.

Incentives change and eligibility varies. Confirm details with the program administrator and a qualified tax professional.

FAQs

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