Oakland Solar + Battery Decision Pack
Solar PanelsBattery Storage
What this pack covers
This Decision Pack covers a coordinated Solar Panels and Battery Storage project in Oakland, CA.
It assembles cost ranges, incentive eligibility, permit requirements, and the questions to ask before signing a contract. Every dollar figure and incentive shown is dated and sourced.
Your goal in one sentence
Plan an Oakland solar plus battery install that models NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) self-consumption on PG&E with neighborhood-microclimate production derate and 3D shading analysis for mature redwoods and tree canopy, verifies current SGIP budget status (only RSSE is open to new applications in 2026 and that budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist), sizes battery backup-loads for typical Oakland Hills PSPS outages (8-24 hours), sequences PG&E PTO plus Oakland P&B permits plus structural review for older Craftsman attachment, and is honest about the post-§25D federal credit landscape.
Recommended sequence
- Solar Panels — No prerequisites within this pack.
- Battery Storage — No prerequisites within this pack.
Who to contact
| Who | Why | What to ask for |
|---|---|---|
| Solar + battery installer | Models solar production, battery behavior, NEM 3.0 economics, backup loads, and EV charging impact. | Solar scenario, battery scenario, future load model, backup-loads plan, EV charging plan. |
Opening script to send contractors
Hi, I'm in Oakland, CA and planning a project that includes Solar Panels, Battery Storage. I am looking for a quote that includes: 1. Solar Panels 2. Battery Storage Please tell me: - Will you perform a formal load calculation (Manual J for HVAC, Article 220 for electrical)? - Are you familiar with Oakland permits and any local rebate programs? - Can you give line-item pricing and separate confirmed incentives from assumed incentives? - Who handles permits, inspections, and rebate paperwork?
Technical basics in plain English
Panel size: 100A, 125A, 150A, 200A
Your electrical panel is the main entry point for electricity into your house. The 'A' means amps. More amps means more total electrical capacity. 100A is older and may not support adding heat pump + water heater + EV charger together without an upgrade or smart load management. 125A/150A is middle ground; could work with efficient equipment and a real load calculation. 200A is usually the cleanest path, but not guaranteed.
Ask: What is my panel size, and can you show me the load calculation that proves this setup is safe?
Load calculation
A load calculation is not the same as guessing. It is a code-based calculation that estimates whether your panel and service can safely carry all major electrical loads. A qualified electrician or contractor should be able to explain whether you need a panel upgrade, a service upgrade, or smart load management instead.
Ask: Are you doing a formal electrical load calculation, or just eyeballing the panel?
Smart load management
Smart load management lets devices avoid running at full power at the same time. For example, the EV charger may slow down while the heat pump or water heater is running. This can sometimes avoid an expensive panel or service upgrade.
Ask: Can smart load management avoid a service upgrade while still supporting future loads?
Battery backup: whole-home vs essential-loads
Whole-home backup tries to power almost everything during an outage. Essential-loads backup powers selected circuits (refrigerator, internet, lights, some outlets). Whole-home backup costs more and drains batteries faster. Essential-loads backup is usually more economical.
Ask: Are you quoting whole-home backup or essential-loads backup? Which specific circuits will be backed up?
Specific questions to ask
Questions for solar + battery installers
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| How will you size the solar array for our future electric load (heat pump HVAC, EV, water heater)? | We model expected future usage including planned heat pump, EV miles, and water heater, then size the array to offset that load under NEM 3.0 export economics. | We size the system from last year's utility bill only. |
| How does NEM 3.0 change the economics versus older interconnections? | NEM 3.0 cut export compensation by ~75 percent versus NEM 2.0, which makes battery storage important for self-consumption. We model expected savings under NEM 3.0 specifically. | NEM 3.0 is the same as NEM 2.0 economically. |
| Is my roof suitable for solar, and what is its remaining lifetime? | We inspect the roof condition, slope, orientation, and shade pattern; we recommend roof replacement first if the roof is near end of life. | Any roof works. |
| Which panel and inverter brands do you recommend, and why? | We name the specific panel model (wattage, efficiency, temperature coefficient, degradation curve) and inverter brand (string vs microinverter), explain the tradeoffs for our roof, and provide the manufacturer datasheets. | We use whatever is cheapest in stock this month. |
| Will the array use string inverters, microinverters, or DC optimizers, and why? | We choose based on roof shading patterns and orientation: microinverters or optimizers for shaded or multi-orientation roofs, string inverters for unshaded uniform arrays. We explain the cost and monitoring tradeoff. | Microinverters are always best. |
| What does the shade analysis show for our roof across the year? | We run a shade analysis tool (HelioScope, Aurora, or similar) using a site survey and roof imagery, and we share the annual production estimate per panel with shade losses called out. | Shade is not significant. |
| Do you offer a production guarantee, and how is it enforced? | We offer an annual production guarantee in kWh based on the design model, and we explain the remediation path (true-up payment or system correction) if actual production falls below the threshold. | Production guarantees are a marketing gimmick. |
| What monitoring platform comes with the system, and are there subscription fees? | We name the monitoring platform (Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge mySolarEdge, or similar), describe what data is visible per panel or per string, and disclose any optional or recurring fees. | Monitoring is included; do not worry about the details. |
| If we add a battery later, can we still apply for SGIP at that time? | Yes — SGIP applications are tied to the battery install, not the solar install. As of 2026, only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open to new applications, and that budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition; ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications. We verify current SGIP budget status at selfgenca.com when the battery is added and explain that pre-approval is required before equipment is delivered. | SGIP only counts if solar and battery are installed together. |
| Who handles the PG&E interconnection paperwork, and what is the typical timeline? | We submit the PG&E interconnection application on your behalf, file the city permits, and coordinate Permission to Operate (PTO). Typical PG&E PTO timelines range from 2 to 6 weeks after the city sign-off; we document the expected window in the quote. | Interconnection happens automatically. |
| What is your post-install commissioning checklist? | Commissioning includes verifying each panel reports correctly in the monitoring platform, checking inverter firmware, confirming production matches the design model on a clear day, and walking us through reading the monitoring app. | We turn it on and leave. |
| How will you confirm the roof structure supports the array? | We perform a structural assessment including rafter sizing, spacing, and condition; for older or unusual roofs we may engage a licensed structural engineer to provide a letter for the permit submittal. | Roofs always handle solar. |
| How will the array meet California fire-setback rules? | We design the array to meet the California Residential Code fire access pathway requirements: ridge setbacks, hip-to-eave pathways, and emergency egress clearances, and we document compliance in the permit submittal. | Fire setbacks are optional. |
| What ongoing maintenance does the system need? | Typical maintenance is light: annual visual inspection, occasional rinse if local dust or pollen reduces production, and inverter firmware updates pushed by the manufacturer. We explain the warranty implications of skipping recommended maintenance. | Solar is install-and-forget; no maintenance ever. |
| What warranties cover the panels, inverter, and labor? | Panels typically carry a 25 year product warranty plus a 25 year linear production warranty; inverters carry 10 to 12 years standard (extendable); we provide a 5 to 10 year labor warranty separately. We document what voids each. | Lifetime warranty on everything. |
| How do you model production for an Oakland address given the difference between the Hills and the flatlands? | We use PVsyst or HelioScope with NREL TMY3 data for the nearest Oakland station, then apply a neighborhood-microclimate derate. Oakland Hills (Montclair, Skyline) typically gets less morning marine layer than flatland Oakland (Lake Merritt, West Oakland) and runs 3-7 percent higher annual production for an equivalent roof. We share the 12-month production model with monthly breakdown. We do not promise specific kWh production; we share the model assumptions. | Oakland production is the same everywhere; just use the average. |
| How does NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) affect the export economics for an Oakland rooftop on PG&E? | NEM 3.0 took effect April 15, 2023 for new PG&E interconnections. Export compensation runs roughly 75 percent lower than NEM 2.0 and varies hourly by the CPUC Avoided Cost Calculator (ACC) rate schedule. A solar-only system with limited self-consumption usually performs poorly on payback under NEM 3.0. We model the year-1 cost with and without battery so the self-consumption difference is visible. We share the ACC hourly schedule we used. | NEM 3.0 is fine; you'll still net to zero on your bill. |
| What monitoring platform comes with the install and what data do I actually see? | Enphase systems use the Enlighten platform with per-microinverter data; SolarEdge uses the SolarEdge monitoring platform with per-optimizer data; Tesla solar uses the Tesla app. All show daily / monthly / annual production and faults. We commission monitoring at install and walk you through the dashboard. We do not consider commissioning complete until you can see live data on your phone. | Monitoring is included; you'll figure it out. |
| Microinverter (Enphase IQ8) or string inverter (SolarEdge)? Which fits an Oakland roof better? | Oakland roofs with shading from neighbor trees, redwoods, or chimney shadows benefit from microinverters (Enphase IQ8) because each panel operates independently of shaded neighbors. Clean unshaded roofs can use either; string inverters (SolarEdge) have a longer service history and slightly lower install cost. We run the shading analysis (HelioScope, Aurora) and pick the right topology. We do not push one technology by default. | Always go microinverter; it's the only good choice. |
| Our Craftsman has a 25-year-old composition roof. Should we re-roof before solar? | Composition roofs over 20-25 years typically have 5-10 years of remaining life. Removing and reinstalling a solar array adds roughly $2,000-$5,000 in labor on top of the re-roof. The cost-rational path is usually to re-roof first if the roof is past 20 years, especially in Oakland where rain and salt-air exposure shorten composition shingle life. We assess at the site visit and share the math; we do not push solar onto a roof that needs replacement. | Solar adds 25 years to your roof life; install now. |
| Older Craftsman rafters look thin to me. Do we need a structural engineer? | Many older East Bay Craftsman and bungalow homes have 2x4 or 2x6 rafters at 24-inch spacing, which is at the low end of the structural envelope for additional dead and wind load from a PV array. Oakland P&B often requires a stamped structural letter or engineered tie-down design for older homes. We engage a licensed structural engineer when the rafter geometry calls for it; the cost runs $400-$900 and the letter is part of the permit submittal. We do not skip structural review on older homes. | Skip structural; the panels are light. |
| Are there fire-access setbacks on a residential solar array in Oakland? | California Residential Code Chapter R331 (formerly R327 in older code references) requires roof-access pathways for firefighters: typically 3 feet of clear space at the ridge and along setbacks from roof edges. For Oakland Hills addresses in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, CRC R337 also applies with additional class-A roof requirements. We document the setbacks on the permit drawings and confirm Oakland P&B sign-off. We do not size the array up to the eaves. | Setbacks don't matter; cover the whole roof. |
| What warranties cover the panels, the inverter, and the labor in Oakland? | Tier-1 panel warranties (LG Energy Solution, REC, Q CELLS, Panasonic) run 25 years on product and power output (typically 84-92 percent retained capacity at year 25). Microinverter warranties (Enphase IQ8) run 25 years; string inverter (SolarEdge) runs 12 years extendable. Labor warranties from the installer run 5-10 years and are the most important one to scrutinize because it covers roof penetrations. We list each warranty term in the proposal. | Warranty is automatic; you don't need to ask. |
| Oakland has a lot of mature trees and redwoods. How do you handle shading in the production model? | We use HelioScope or Aurora 3D shading models with imported LiDAR (sometimes drone imagery) for the roof and surrounding tree canopy. Mature redwoods in Oakland neighborhoods (Rockridge, Temescal, Piedmont border) can shade significant roof area. The model produces a per-month shading impact; we share it. We do not exclude shaded areas from the proposal without showing the math. | Trees aren't a big deal; we just lay out around them. |
| Does coastal salt air or pollen and dust derate Oakland panel output? | Soiling derate on Oakland panels typically runs 1-3 percent annually under normal rainfall. Bay-adjacent addresses (West Oakland, Jack London) get a small salt-air component. Inland Oakland mainly accumulates pollen and dust between rain events. We apply a 2 percent soiling assumption in PVsyst unless your site warrants more. We do not recommend annual professional cleaning unless the array sits on a particularly soiled location. | Clean panels every six months or output crashes. |
| What is the PG&E interconnection process and what fees apply? | We submit the PG&E interconnection application (the Net Billing Tariff agreement under NEM 3.0) once the permit is in plan check. PG&E typically takes 2-4 weeks to issue conditional approval, then PTO follows the final inspection by 2-6 weeks. PG&E charges a $145 interconnection application fee on residential NEM 3.0 systems as of last verification; we itemize it. We do not energize before PTO. | PTO is automatic and instant; just flip the switch. |
| We plan to add a heat pump and HPWH later. Should the solar size now account for that future load? | Yes. Sizing solar today to meet only current usage strands future load on the grid at NEM 3.0 export rates. We model expected future load (Manual J for HP HVAC, HPWH first-hour rating, EV-charge needs) and size solar to cover the full expected post-electrification annual kWh, within roof and structural limits. We share the sizing rationale and the post-electrification cost model. | Just size to current usage; we'll add more later. |
| What does NEC 690 and the 705.12 120 percent rule mean for an Oakland panel? | NEC Article 690 covers PV systems and Article 705 covers interconnection. The 705.12(B)(3)(2) 120 percent rule says the sum of main breaker + inverter output breaker cannot exceed 120 percent of busbar rating. A 200A panel allows up to 240A of combined; a 200A main + 40A solar breaker fits (200 + 40 = 240). Larger inverters require derating the main breaker, a line-side tap, or a panel upgrade. We confirm the busbar rating and document the math in the permit drawings. | The 120 percent rule doesn't apply to most homes. |
| Our Oakland Hills address is in the Very High FHSZ. Does the solar install change because of fire rules? | Oakland Hills addresses in the CAL FIRE Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone fall under CRC R337 for wildfire-resistant construction. The PV array itself does not change, but adjacent roofing materials must be Class A fire-rated, conduit penetrations must use fire-rated boots and sealant, and combiner boxes near eaves need ignition-resistant placement. We document the FHSZ designation, the Class A roof confirmation, and any required R337 hardware in the permit drawings. | Fire rules don't change solar installs. |
| We still have some knob-and-tube wiring. Will that block the solar interconnection? | Knob-and-tube wiring on lighting branches does not by itself block a solar interconnection; the solar feeder runs into the main panel busbar, not into knob-and-tube branches. However, if the panel needs upgrade or replacement to accept the inverter output breaker, the rewiring requirement may surface. We assess at the site visit and itemize any required electrical scope alongside the solar work so you do not see a surprise change order after permitting. | Knob-and-tube blocks all solar; you have to rewire first. |
| We are an Ava Community Energy customer. Does the solar interconnection go through Ava or PG&E? | Interconnection goes through PG&E because PG&E owns the meter and the distribution lines. The Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0) export compensation flows back through PG&E's billing as a generation credit; if you are on an Ava supply product (Bright Choice default or Renewable 100 opt-up), the export credit applies against the PG&E delivery portion of the bill and the Ava-supplied generation portion separately. Ava Community Energy (the CCA formerly known as East Bay Community Energy, rebranded October 2023) publishes its own NBT-equivalent compensation schedule; we model the actual Ava numbers, not the PG&E bundled-rate numbers, for the payback calc. | Ava customers get a separate solar deal. |
| Which circuits will be backed up during an outage, and for how long? | We provide a backup-loads list (refrigerator, internet, lights, HVAC controls, well pump if any), estimate runtime in hours at typical and worst-case usage, and explain whether whole-home or essential-loads backup is recommended. | The battery powers the house. |
| Does my install qualify for SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program), and at what tier? | We verify current SGIP budget status before quoting: as of December 31, 2025 the ratepayer-funded General Market, Equity, and Equity Resiliency budgets are closed to new applications, and only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open — and that budget is fully reserved with new applications served via an attrition-based waitlist (selfgenca.com). We document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate, and we explain that pre-approval is required before equipment is delivered. | SGIP always pays out the maximum amount. |
| What is the battery's usable kWh and continuous inverter power, and how do they relate? | We specify both: kWh determines how long the backup lasts; the inverter's continuous AC output determines what can run at once (refrigerator + lights + maybe HVAC vs everything). | kWh is the only number that matters. |
| Is the battery AC-coupled or DC-coupled with the solar array, and why? | AC-coupled batteries use a separate inverter and are easier to retrofit to existing solar. DC-coupled batteries share an inverter with new solar and are typically more efficient end-to-end. We choose based on whether the solar array is new or existing. | Coupling does not matter. |
| Can we add more battery capacity later, and what are the limits? | Most modern systems support stacking additional units up to a vendor-specified maximum. We document the maximum stack today, what is needed to add capacity later (matching firmware, software update, possible electrical re-work), and whether SGIP can be applied to expansion units. | Buy the biggest battery today; expansion is impossible. |
| What depth-of-discharge limit does the battery use, and how does that affect usable kWh? | We explain the nameplate kWh vs usable kWh: modern LFP batteries reserve very little for cycle life (often 95 to 100 percent of nameplate is usable); older chemistries reserve 10 to 20 percent. We quote usable kWh in the proposal so you can compare like-for-like. | Nameplate kWh is the usable kWh. |
| What is the manufacturer warranty on the battery, and what limits it? | Most residential batteries carry a 10 to 12 year warranty, often paired with a cycle count (e.g. 6,000 to 10,000 cycles) or throughput limit (e.g. 37.8 MWh) - whichever comes first. We provide the spec sheet and explain what voids coverage. | Lifetime warranty; no fine print. |
| Are time-of-use arbitrage cycles counted against the warranty? | Yes. Every charge-discharge cycle counts toward the throughput limit; aggressive daily TOU arbitrage may shorten the years-based warranty window. We model expected cycles per year for your usage pattern. | Cycling does not count against the warranty. |
| How will the battery shift load away from PG&E peak hours? | We program the battery to charge from solar during midday and discharge during the PG&E EV2-A or E-ELEC peak window (typically 4-9pm), saving you the peak-period delta. We tune the schedule for your actual usage and rate plan. | The battery charges and discharges whenever. |
| How does NEM 3.0 change the battery payback? | Under NEM 3.0, export compensation dropped by roughly 75 percent, so self-consumption (using your solar via the battery instead of exporting) is now the primary battery economic driver. We model expected savings under NEM 3.0 with your specific rate plan. | NEM 3.0 has no effect on battery payback. |
| How will the install meet CRC 1207 / R327 fire-setback rules for energy storage? | We design the install per California Residential Code R327 (formerly section 1207): separation from windows, doors, openings into the dwelling, and other batteries; smoke and heat detectors per code; and an exterior wall location where possible. We document compliance in the permit submittal. | Fire setbacks are optional. |
| What is your post-install commissioning checklist? | Commissioning includes verifying battery state-of-charge reporting, testing backup-mode transfer with a simulated outage, walking through the app for backup-only vs TOU modes, and confirming the SGIP system performance metering is functioning if SGIP is part of the project. | We turn it on and leave. |
| Are you an installer certified by the battery manufacturer? | Yes. We provide our certification number for the specific battery brand (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ, LG Chem RESU, FranklinWH, etc.); certification is typically required to preserve full warranty coverage. | Certification does not matter for batteries. |
| Who handles the PG&E interconnection update for the new battery? | We submit the updated PG&E interconnection paperwork to add the battery to your existing or new solar interconnection, and we obtain the updated Permission to Operate before energizing. | PG&E interconnection happens automatically. |
| What panel-side breaker work or interconnection method does the battery require? | We confirm whether the battery interconnects via a back-fed breaker (with sum-of-breakers check per NEC 705.12), a supply-side tap, or a dedicated battery sub-panel; we show the calculation on the permit drawings. | Any spare slot will work. |
| How does SGIP apply for a residential battery in Oakland (PG&E territory) and which tiers are available? | SGIP in PG&E territory is administered by PG&E. Budget status as of 2026: per the SGIP program administrators, the ratepayer-funded Residential General (around $150 per kWh of usable capacity), Equity (around $850 per kWh for income-qualified customers), and Equity Resiliency (around $1,000 per kWh for HFTD-designated or Medical Baseline customers) budgets are no longer accepting new applications. Only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open — and that budget is fully reserved as of December 31, 2025; new RSSE applications go to a waitlist served through attrition of cancelled projects. RSSE rates were around $1,100 per kWh storage plus around $3,100 per kW solar, targeted at income-qualified solar-plus-battery customers. Pre-approval is required before installation; we verify current budget status at selfgenca.com before quoting, reserve via PG&E when the path is open, and document the reservation number (or waitlist position) in the proposal. We confirm only what we have reserved; we do not assume eligibility. | Sign and we will get whatever SGIP shows up. |
| We are in the Oakland Hills marked as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Does the SGIP Equity Resiliency tier apply? | SGIP Equity Resiliency was designed for customers in high-fire-threat districts (per CPUC HFTD map) and on the Medical Baseline program. Many Oakland Hills addresses (Montclair, Skyline, Joaquin Miller, Piedmont border) fall in HFTD Tier 2 or Tier 3. As of 2026 the ratepayer-funded Equity Resiliency budget is no longer accepting new applications — only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open, and that budget is fully reserved with new applications on a waitlist via attrition. We verify the HFTD designation against the CPUC fire-threat map and walk through eligibility honestly before listing any SGIP line item, but practical access in 2026 is limited to the RSSE waitlist for income-qualified solar-plus-battery projects. Approval is not automatic; we list any SGIP path as pending until confirmed via selfgenca.com. | Equity Resiliency is automatic in Oakland Hills; you qualify. |
| How does adding a battery improve solar payback under NEM 3.0 on PG&E? | Under NEM 3.0, exporting solar to the grid pays roughly 75 percent less than under NEM 2.0. A battery stores midday solar for use during the 4-9pm peak window, which is the highest-rate window on PG&E E-ELEC and EV2-A. We model self-consumption ratio (typically 60-80 percent with battery vs 30-50 percent solar-only) and share the year-1 cost comparison. We do not promise a payback number; we share the model assumptions and outputs. | Adding a battery always cuts your bill in half. |
| Should the battery be AC-coupled or DC-coupled and what is the difference? | DC coupling routes solar DC directly into the battery before inverting, reducing one conversion step (roughly 2-3 percent round-trip efficiency gain). AC coupling inverts at the panel, then re-inverts back to DC for battery storage. DC coupling is cleaner for new solar plus battery installs; AC coupling is the right choice when retrofitting a battery onto an existing solar system. Tesla Powerwall 3 supports both. Enphase IQ Battery is AC-coupled by design. FranklinWH is AC-coupled. We pick the topology based on whether solar is new or existing. | DC coupling is always better; AC is obsolete. |
| How do you size the battery for typical Oakland Hills PSPS events and what backup-loads should make the list? | Oakland Hills PSPS events typically run 8-24 hours, occasionally longer in extreme weather. We build a backup-loads list with you: refrigerator (1-2 kWh per day), essential lighting (LED, 1-2 kWh per day), Wi-Fi router and modem (0.5 kWh per day), cell phone charging, any medical equipment (CPAP, oxygen concentrator), and gas-furnace blower if applicable. A 13.5 kWh Powerwall covers about a day of these critical loads. We size for the design outage duration and do not assume the whole house is backed up. Cooling and EV charging are usually off the list. | Just back up the whole house; the battery will figure it out. |
| What does the depth-of-discharge (DoD) spec mean and how does LFP chemistry change it? | DoD is the percentage of nameplate capacity usable per cycle without warranty impact. LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries (Tesla Powerwall 3, Enphase IQ Battery 5P, FranklinWH aPower) are rated for around 95-100 percent DoD because LFP is thermally stable and tolerates near-full discharge. Older NMC chemistries (some early SimpliPhi units) rated lower. Higher DoD means more usable kWh per nameplate kWh. Tesla Powerwall 3 nameplate is 13.5 kWh with around 13 kWh usable. | DoD doesn't matter; just look at the nameplate. |
| What warranties cover the battery hardware and what should I scrutinize? | Tesla Powerwall 3 warranty is 10 years unlimited cycles. Enphase IQ Battery 5P is 10 years or 6,000 cycles or 28 MWh throughput, whichever first. FranklinWH aPower is 12 years 70 percent end-of-warranty capacity. Installer labor warranty (separate) runs 5-10 years. The throughput and capacity-retention numbers matter more than the year count. We list each warranty term in the proposal. | All warranties are the same; just pick a brand. |
| How long will the battery actually run during a PSPS event? | Runtime is usable kWh divided by hourly load. A 13 kWh usable Powerwall covering 0.5 kW continuous (fridge cycling, LEDs, Wi-Fi, router) runs roughly 26 hours; covering 1.0 kW (above plus medical equipment) runs roughly 13 hours; covering 2.5 kW (whole house including cycling HVAC) runs roughly 5 hours. We give you a per-load-profile runtime table, not a single number. We do not promise a runtime; we show the math. | It will last all night; don't worry about loads. |
| What certifications should the battery have for Oakland install? | UL 9540 is the system-level safety certification for energy storage; UL 9540A is the thermal-runaway propagation test. All major brands (Tesla, Enphase, FranklinWH, LG Energy Solution) carry UL 9540 and UL 9540A. The data sheet should show both. Oakland P&B confirms the listing in plan review. We do not install a battery without UL 9540 and 9540A. | UL listings don't matter; the manufacturer covers it. |
| Tesla Powerwall 3 vs Enphase IQ Battery 5P vs FranklinWH for an Oakland install: how do you decide? | Tesla Powerwall 3 has an integrated 11.5 kW continuous inverter, supports DC-coupled new solar plus AC-coupled retrofit, and pairs with Tesla cars cleanly. Enphase IQ Battery 5P is modular (5 kWh per unit), AC-coupled, and pairs well with existing Enphase microinverter systems. FranklinWH aPower stacks two 13.6 kWh modules with a unified gateway and has the best whole-home backup capacity for the price. We match the brand to your solar topology, your backup-loads target, and whether you want modularity or maximum capacity. We do not push one brand by default. | Tesla is always best; the others are junk. |
| What monitoring app comes with the battery and what does it actually show? | Tesla uses the Tesla app (solar + battery + EV in one view, real-time and historical data). Enphase uses Enlighten (per-microinverter solar and battery state-of-charge). FranklinWH uses the FranklinWH app (whole-home view with backup-loads circuit-level data). All show state of charge, daily and monthly throughput, faults, and grid-tied vs backup status. We commission monitoring at install and walk you through it. We do not consider commissioning complete until you can see live data on your phone. | Just download the app; you'll figure it out. |
| Can the battery do rate arbitrage on PG&E TOU even without solar? | On PG&E E-ELEC and EV2-A, charging the battery from the grid during super-off-peak (midnight-3pm) and discharging during 4-9pm peak captures a per-kWh delta of roughly 20-30 cents. Without solar, the year-1 arbitrage savings on a 13 kWh battery typically range $400-$900 depending on the rate plan and consumption pattern. This rarely pays back the hardware on its own; arbitrage is a secondary benefit on top of backup resilience. We model both scenarios. | Arbitrage will pay back the battery in 3 years. |
| Our Oakland Hills address is in the Very High FHSZ. Does the battery need to be outdoor or indoor? | CRC R337 (wildfire-resistant construction) applies to Oakland Hills addresses in the Very High FHSZ. Battery enclosures must comply with the listed installation manual for FHSZ; indoor installs in a garage or detached structure are generally allowed if the structure meets R337 envelope requirements. Outdoor installs require ignition-resistant placement and CRC R331 setbacks from the structure. We document the FHSZ designation, the proposed location, and the install-manual citation in the permit drawings. We do not install a battery in zone-0 (within 5 feet of combustible vegetation). | FHSZ doesn't change battery installs. |
| What does commissioning look like at the end of the battery install? | We do a backup-test: simulate a grid outage by opening the main breaker and confirm the battery picks up critical loads within the inverter's transfer time (Tesla Powerwall 3 around 200 ms, Enphase IQ Battery 5P around 500 ms). We verify state-of-charge readings against measured voltage, confirm the gateway communicates with the manufacturer cloud and your phone, and walk through the app together. We give you a signed commissioning sheet with the measured transfer time. Without commissioning, the battery may not transfer cleanly during a real outage. | Just push the button at the end; you don't need a test. |
Questions for electricians
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| Should we install a critical-loads sub-panel or back up the whole house? | Whole-house backup requires a battery large enough to cover all loads including HVAC and any large appliances; runtime drops fast. Critical-loads backup runs through a sub-panel that separates the backed-up circuits (lights, fridge, Wi-Fi, outlets in critical rooms) from non-essential loads. The critical-loads approach is usually cheaper and gives longer runtime per kWh of battery. We design the critical-loads sub-panel circuit list with you and document it in the permit. Tesla Powerwall 3 and FranklinWH can do whole-home or partial; Enphase IQ Battery typically uses a critical-loads sub-panel. | Whole-house backup is the only worthwhile approach. |
| How does NEC Article 706 and 705.12 affect the battery install? | NEC Article 706 covers Energy Storage Systems and 705.12 covers interconnection. We confirm the panel busbar rating, document the 120 percent rule math (main breaker plus inverter output breaker cannot exceed 120 percent of busbar rating), and specify any required line-side tap if the inverter output exceeds the allowed sum. We document grounding electrode per NEC 250 and any required revenue-grade metering. We do not skip the busbar math. | 705.12 doesn't matter for batteries. |
| How do you handle the grounding electrode for the battery system in an older Oakland house? | NEC Article 250 requires the ESS to be bonded to the existing grounding electrode system. Older Oakland Craftsman and bungalow homes sometimes have only a single ground rod, an undersized water-pipe bond, or both; the existing system may not meet current code for a new ESS. We measure the existing grounding electrode resistance, document compliance, and add supplemental electrodes (typically a second 8-foot copper-clad rod 6 feet from the first) if required. We include the grounding work as a line item in the proposal. | Just bond it to the panel; that's enough. |
General questions for every contractor
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| Does the federal Section 25D residential clean energy credit apply to my installation? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for the 30 percent §25D credit. | You will receive the 30 percent federal credit on your taxes. |
| Does TECH Clean California currently offer a solar incentive? | TECH Clean California primarily targets heat pump HVAC and heat pump water heaters, not standalone solar. We verify current TECH program scope at techcleanca.com before citing any incentive. | TECH covers solar; assume the rebate applies. |
| Are BayREN Home+ rebates available for our solar or solar plus battery project? | BayREN Home+ is primarily a building shell and heat-pump program for Bay Area homeowners; we verify whether a solar or battery incentive is currently active at bayren.org and explain the application path if so. | BayREN always pays out for solar. |
| What is the best next step before signing a solar contract? | Get a written quote with line-item pricing including the design model output (kWh per year), shade analysis, panel and inverter make and model, permit and PG&E interconnection fees, production guarantee terms, and warranty terms. | Sign today to lock in pricing before incentives change. |
| How do solar permits work with City of Oakland Planning and Building? | We pull an Oakland Planning and Building electrical permit (oaklandca.gov/departments/planning-building, via the Tyler EnerGov self-service portal) plus a structural review if the array sits on an older Craftsman or bungalow roof. Oakland participates in SolarAPP+ for streamlined permitting on standard residential designs; we use it when eligible. PTO (permission to operate) from PG&E typically takes 2-6 weeks after final inspection. We share all permit applications and inspection cards. | Solar permits in Oakland are same-day; no review needed. |
| Is the federal 25D residential clean energy credit on the table for an Oakland install? | The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, PL 119-21). Installations placed in service in 2026 or later are not eligible for §25D. We list the credit as expired in the proposal and do not deduct it from your project cost. If the system was placed in service on or before December 31, 2025 the credit may apply; we document the placed-in-service date. | 25D still applies; we deduct 30 percent from the quote. |
| Does BayREN Home+ rebate solar in Oakland? | BayREN Home+ primarily covers heat-pump HVAC, HPWH, and envelope retrofits; solar is not a direct BayREN Home+ rebate category as of last verification. If solar plus battery is bundled with a HP HVAC swap, the HP rebate may apply to that component. We confirm the current bayren.org program list before quoting and do not list a solar-rebate line item unless one is actually open. | BayREN pays $5,000 for solar. |
| What is the best next step before signing an Oakland solar contract? | Schedule the site visit, get the PVsyst or HelioScope production model with neighborhood-microclimate derate and shading analysis, confirm SolarAPP+ eligibility through Oakland P&B, decide on the NEM 3.0 self-consumption strategy (solar-only vs solar plus battery with SGIP), and get a written quote with all line items: panels, inverter, racking, labor, permits, structural review, monitoring. Compare two or three bids on the same scope. | Sign today; prices are going up. |
| Does the federal Section 25D residential clean energy credit apply to my battery install? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Battery installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for the 30 percent §25D credit. | You will receive the 30 percent federal credit on your taxes. |
| Does HEEHRA or TECH Clean California currently offer a battery incentive? | Neither HEEHRA nor TECH primarily fund residential batteries; SGIP is the main California battery program. We verify current TECH scope at techcleanca.com and HEEHRA status at energy.ca.gov before citing any battery incentive. | HEEHRA covers batteries automatically. |
| Will the quote separate confirmed SGIP incentives from assumed? | Yes. SGIP is marked confirmed only after pre-approval is granted and the funding tier is reserved; we mark the line as assumed in the quote until then and explain the reservation status. | All listed incentives are yours. |
| What is the best next step before signing a battery contract? | Get a written quote with line-item pricing including usable kWh, continuous AC inverter output, AC vs DC coupling, manufacturer warranty terms (years AND cycles AND throughput), labor warranty separately, SJPermits.org permit fees, PG&E interconnection plan, and an honest SGIP workflow: as of December 31, 2025 only the AB 209-funded RSSE budget accepts new applications and it is fully reserved (attrition-based waitlist via selfgenca.com), so the proposal documents the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate. | Sign today to lock in SGIP before funding runs out. |
| What does the Oakland Planning and Building permit process look like for a battery install? | We pull an Oakland P&B electrical permit (oaklandca.gov/departments/planning-building, via the Tyler EnerGov self-service portal). For wall-mounted batteries we confirm structural attachment per the manufacturer install manual; for floor-mounted (Tesla Powerwall 3 or FranklinWH) the floor anchor pattern goes in the permit drawings. Fire setback per CRC R331 (and R337 in the Hills FHSZ) is documented with measurements on the permit. Final card sign-off happens at inspection. We share all permit copies. Oakland review timelines run longer than SJ; we set expectations honestly. | Batteries under 20 kWh don't need permits. |
| Does the federal 25D credit apply to the battery in 2026? | The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, PL 119-21). Battery installs placed in service in 2026 or later are not eligible. We list the credit as expired in the proposal and do not deduct it. If the system was placed in service on or before December 31, 2025 the credit may apply; we document the placed-in-service date. | 25D applies; we deduct 30 percent from the battery cost. |
| What is the best next step before signing an Oakland battery contract? | Schedule a site visit, verify SGIP budget status on selfgenca.com (as of December 31, 2025 the ratepayer-funded General Market, Equity, and Equity Resiliency budgets are closed to new applications; only the AB 209-funded RSSE budget remains open and it is fully reserved — new apps go to an attrition-based waitlist, so we document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate), decide on the backup-loads list and battery sizing, run the NEM 3.0 self-consumption model on your PG&E rate plan (E-ELEC or EV2-A), and get a written quote with line-item pricing: battery hardware, inverter, gateway, installation labor, Oakland P&B permits, structural attachment if wall-mounted, monitoring setup. Compare two or three bids on the same scope and battery brand. | Sign today; SGIP will run out tomorrow. |
Good vs reasonable vs bad answers
| Question | Good | Reasonable | Bad |
|---|---|---|---|
| How will you size the solar array for our future electric load (heat pump HVAC, EV, water heater)? | We model expected future usage including planned heat pump, EV miles, and water heater, then size the array to offset that load under NEM 3.0 export economics. | — | We size the system from last year's utility bill only. |
| How does NEM 3.0 change the economics versus older interconnections? | NEM 3.0 cut export compensation by ~75 percent versus NEM 2.0, which makes battery storage important for self-consumption. We model expected savings under NEM 3.0 specifically. | — | NEM 3.0 is the same as NEM 2.0 economically. |
| Is my roof suitable for solar, and what is its remaining lifetime? | We inspect the roof condition, slope, orientation, and shade pattern; we recommend roof replacement first if the roof is near end of life. | — | Any roof works. |
| Which panel and inverter brands do you recommend, and why? | We name the specific panel model (wattage, efficiency, temperature coefficient, degradation curve) and inverter brand (string vs microinverter), explain the tradeoffs for our roof, and provide the manufacturer datasheets. | — | We use whatever is cheapest in stock this month. |
| Will the array use string inverters, microinverters, or DC optimizers, and why? | We choose based on roof shading patterns and orientation: microinverters or optimizers for shaded or multi-orientation roofs, string inverters for unshaded uniform arrays. We explain the cost and monitoring tradeoff. | — | Microinverters are always best. |
| What does the shade analysis show for our roof across the year? | We run a shade analysis tool (HelioScope, Aurora, or similar) using a site survey and roof imagery, and we share the annual production estimate per panel with shade losses called out. | — | Shade is not significant. |
| Do you offer a production guarantee, and how is it enforced? | We offer an annual production guarantee in kWh based on the design model, and we explain the remediation path (true-up payment or system correction) if actual production falls below the threshold. | — | Production guarantees are a marketing gimmick. |
| What monitoring platform comes with the system, and are there subscription fees? | We name the monitoring platform (Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge mySolarEdge, or similar), describe what data is visible per panel or per string, and disclose any optional or recurring fees. | — | Monitoring is included; do not worry about the details. |
| If we add a battery later, can we still apply for SGIP at that time? | Yes — SGIP applications are tied to the battery install, not the solar install. As of 2026, only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open to new applications, and that budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition; ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications. We verify current SGIP budget status at selfgenca.com when the battery is added and explain that pre-approval is required before equipment is delivered. | — | SGIP only counts if solar and battery are installed together. |
| Does the federal Section 25D residential clean energy credit apply to my installation? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for the 30 percent §25D credit. | — | You will receive the 30 percent federal credit on your taxes. |
| Does TECH Clean California currently offer a solar incentive? | TECH Clean California primarily targets heat pump HVAC and heat pump water heaters, not standalone solar. We verify current TECH program scope at techcleanca.com before citing any incentive. | — | TECH covers solar; assume the rebate applies. |
| Are BayREN Home+ rebates available for our solar or solar plus battery project? | BayREN Home+ is primarily a building shell and heat-pump program for Bay Area homeowners; we verify whether a solar or battery incentive is currently active at bayren.org and explain the application path if so. | — | BayREN always pays out for solar. |
| Who handles the PG&E interconnection paperwork, and what is the typical timeline? | We submit the PG&E interconnection application on your behalf, file the city permits, and coordinate Permission to Operate (PTO). Typical PG&E PTO timelines range from 2 to 6 weeks after the city sign-off; we document the expected window in the quote. | — | Interconnection happens automatically. |
| What is your post-install commissioning checklist? | Commissioning includes verifying each panel reports correctly in the monitoring platform, checking inverter firmware, confirming production matches the design model on a clear day, and walking us through reading the monitoring app. | — | We turn it on and leave. |
| How will you confirm the roof structure supports the array? | We perform a structural assessment including rafter sizing, spacing, and condition; for older or unusual roofs we may engage a licensed structural engineer to provide a letter for the permit submittal. | — | Roofs always handle solar. |
| How will the array meet California fire-setback rules? | We design the array to meet the California Residential Code fire access pathway requirements: ridge setbacks, hip-to-eave pathways, and emergency egress clearances, and we document compliance in the permit submittal. | — | Fire setbacks are optional. |
| What ongoing maintenance does the system need? | Typical maintenance is light: annual visual inspection, occasional rinse if local dust or pollen reduces production, and inverter firmware updates pushed by the manufacturer. We explain the warranty implications of skipping recommended maintenance. | — | Solar is install-and-forget; no maintenance ever. |
| What warranties cover the panels, inverter, and labor? | Panels typically carry a 25 year product warranty plus a 25 year linear production warranty; inverters carry 10 to 12 years standard (extendable); we provide a 5 to 10 year labor warranty separately. We document what voids each. | — | Lifetime warranty on everything. |
| What is the best next step before signing a solar contract? | Get a written quote with line-item pricing including the design model output (kWh per year), shade analysis, panel and inverter make and model, permit and PG&E interconnection fees, production guarantee terms, and warranty terms. | — | Sign today to lock in pricing before incentives change. |
| How do you model production for an Oakland address given the difference between the Hills and the flatlands? | We use PVsyst or HelioScope with NREL TMY3 data for the nearest Oakland station, then apply a neighborhood-microclimate derate. Oakland Hills (Montclair, Skyline) typically gets less morning marine layer than flatland Oakland (Lake Merritt, West Oakland) and runs 3-7 percent higher annual production for an equivalent roof. We share the 12-month production model with monthly breakdown. We do not promise specific kWh production; we share the model assumptions. | We model production per neighborhood; Oakland Hills typically runs 3-7 percent higher than flatland for equivalent roofs. | Oakland production is the same everywhere; just use the average. |
| How does NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) affect the export economics for an Oakland rooftop on PG&E? | NEM 3.0 took effect April 15, 2023 for new PG&E interconnections. Export compensation runs roughly 75 percent lower than NEM 2.0 and varies hourly by the CPUC Avoided Cost Calculator (ACC) rate schedule. A solar-only system with limited self-consumption usually performs poorly on payback under NEM 3.0. We model the year-1 cost with and without battery so the self-consumption difference is visible. We share the ACC hourly schedule we used. | NEM 3.0 makes battery storage important for payback; we model both options. | NEM 3.0 is fine; you'll still net to zero on your bill. |
| How do solar permits work with City of Oakland Planning and Building? | We pull an Oakland Planning and Building electrical permit (oaklandca.gov/departments/planning-building, via the Tyler EnerGov self-service portal) plus a structural review if the array sits on an older Craftsman or bungalow roof. Oakland participates in SolarAPP+ for streamlined permitting on standard residential designs; we use it when eligible. PTO (permission to operate) from PG&E typically takes 2-6 weeks after final inspection. We share all permit applications and inspection cards. | We use SolarAPP+ when eligible; otherwise standard Oakland P&B plan check applies. | Solar permits in Oakland are same-day; no review needed. |
| Is the federal 25D residential clean energy credit on the table for an Oakland install? | The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, PL 119-21). Installations placed in service in 2026 or later are not eligible for §25D. We list the credit as expired in the proposal and do not deduct it from your project cost. If the system was placed in service on or before December 31, 2025 the credit may apply; we document the placed-in-service date. | 25D expired on December 31, 2025 under OBBBA; we do not deduct it for 2026 installs. | 25D still applies; we deduct 30 percent from the quote. |
| What monitoring platform comes with the install and what data do I actually see? | Enphase systems use the Enlighten platform with per-microinverter data; SolarEdge uses the SolarEdge monitoring platform with per-optimizer data; Tesla solar uses the Tesla app. All show daily / monthly / annual production and faults. We commission monitoring at install and walk you through the dashboard. We do not consider commissioning complete until you can see live data on your phone. | Monitoring is commissioned at install and we walk you through the dashboard. | Monitoring is included; you'll figure it out. |
| Microinverter (Enphase IQ8) or string inverter (SolarEdge)? Which fits an Oakland roof better? | Oakland roofs with shading from neighbor trees, redwoods, or chimney shadows benefit from microinverters (Enphase IQ8) because each panel operates independently of shaded neighbors. Clean unshaded roofs can use either; string inverters (SolarEdge) have a longer service history and slightly lower install cost. We run the shading analysis (HelioScope, Aurora) and pick the right topology. We do not push one technology by default. | Shading drives the choice; we share the shading analysis and pick the right topology. | Always go microinverter; it's the only good choice. |
| Our Craftsman has a 25-year-old composition roof. Should we re-roof before solar? | Composition roofs over 20-25 years typically have 5-10 years of remaining life. Removing and reinstalling a solar array adds roughly $2,000-$5,000 in labor on top of the re-roof. The cost-rational path is usually to re-roof first if the roof is past 20 years, especially in Oakland where rain and salt-air exposure shorten composition shingle life. We assess at the site visit and share the math; we do not push solar onto a roof that needs replacement. | Re-roof first if the composition is over 20 years old; we share the cost math at the site visit. | Solar adds 25 years to your roof life; install now. |
| Older Craftsman rafters look thin to me. Do we need a structural engineer? | Many older East Bay Craftsman and bungalow homes have 2x4 or 2x6 rafters at 24-inch spacing, which is at the low end of the structural envelope for additional dead and wind load from a PV array. Oakland P&B often requires a stamped structural letter or engineered tie-down design for older homes. We engage a licensed structural engineer when the rafter geometry calls for it; the cost runs $400-$900 and the letter is part of the permit submittal. We do not skip structural review on older homes. | Older Craftsman rafters often need structural review; we engage a licensed engineer when required. | Skip structural; the panels are light. |
| Are there fire-access setbacks on a residential solar array in Oakland? | California Residential Code Chapter R331 (formerly R327 in older code references) requires roof-access pathways for firefighters: typically 3 feet of clear space at the ridge and along setbacks from roof edges. For Oakland Hills addresses in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, CRC R337 also applies with additional class-A roof requirements. We document the setbacks on the permit drawings and confirm Oakland P&B sign-off. We do not size the array up to the eaves. | Fire-access setbacks (3-foot ridge + edge) are mandatory; Hills addresses also follow CRC R337 for materials. | Setbacks don't matter; cover the whole roof. |
| What warranties cover the panels, the inverter, and the labor in Oakland? | Tier-1 panel warranties (LG Energy Solution, REC, Q CELLS, Panasonic) run 25 years on product and power output (typically 84-92 percent retained capacity at year 25). Microinverter warranties (Enphase IQ8) run 25 years; string inverter (SolarEdge) runs 12 years extendable. Labor warranties from the installer run 5-10 years and are the most important one to scrutinize because it covers roof penetrations. We list each warranty term in the proposal. | Each warranty is listed in the proposal; the installer's labor warranty matters most for roof penetrations. | Warranty is automatic; you don't need to ask. |
| Oakland has a lot of mature trees and redwoods. How do you handle shading in the production model? | We use HelioScope or Aurora 3D shading models with imported LiDAR (sometimes drone imagery) for the roof and surrounding tree canopy. Mature redwoods in Oakland neighborhoods (Rockridge, Temescal, Piedmont border) can shade significant roof area. The model produces a per-month shading impact; we share it. We do not exclude shaded areas from the proposal without showing the math. | We share the 3D shading model and per-month impact; mature trees materially change the production estimate. | Trees aren't a big deal; we just lay out around them. |
| Does coastal salt air or pollen and dust derate Oakland panel output? | Soiling derate on Oakland panels typically runs 1-3 percent annually under normal rainfall. Bay-adjacent addresses (West Oakland, Jack London) get a small salt-air component. Inland Oakland mainly accumulates pollen and dust between rain events. We apply a 2 percent soiling assumption in PVsyst unless your site warrants more. We do not recommend annual professional cleaning unless the array sits on a particularly soiled location. | We apply a 2 percent soiling derate by default; professional cleaning is rarely needed in Oakland. | Clean panels every six months or output crashes. |
| What is the PG&E interconnection process and what fees apply? | We submit the PG&E interconnection application (the Net Billing Tariff agreement under NEM 3.0) once the permit is in plan check. PG&E typically takes 2-4 weeks to issue conditional approval, then PTO follows the final inspection by 2-6 weeks. PG&E charges a $145 interconnection application fee on residential NEM 3.0 systems as of last verification; we itemize it. We do not energize before PTO. | PG&E interconnection takes 2-4 weeks for conditional approval; PTO follows the final inspection. The fee is itemized. | PTO is automatic and instant; just flip the switch. |
| We plan to add a heat pump and HPWH later. Should the solar size now account for that future load? | Yes. Sizing solar today to meet only current usage strands future load on the grid at NEM 3.0 export rates. We model expected future load (Manual J for HP HVAC, HPWH first-hour rating, EV-charge needs) and size solar to cover the full expected post-electrification annual kWh, within roof and structural limits. We share the sizing rationale and the post-electrification cost model. | We model expected post-electrification load now and size solar accordingly within roof limits. | Just size to current usage; we'll add more later. |
| What does NEC 690 and the 705.12 120 percent rule mean for an Oakland panel? | NEC Article 690 covers PV systems and Article 705 covers interconnection. The 705.12(B)(3)(2) 120 percent rule says the sum of main breaker + inverter output breaker cannot exceed 120 percent of busbar rating. A 200A panel allows up to 240A of combined; a 200A main + 40A solar breaker fits (200 + 40 = 240). Larger inverters require derating the main breaker, a line-side tap, or a panel upgrade. We confirm the busbar rating and document the math in the permit drawings. | We confirm the panel busbar rating and document the 705.12 math in the permit drawings. | The 120 percent rule doesn't apply to most homes. |
| Does BayREN Home+ rebate solar in Oakland? | BayREN Home+ primarily covers heat-pump HVAC, HPWH, and envelope retrofits; solar is not a direct BayREN Home+ rebate category as of last verification. If solar plus battery is bundled with a HP HVAC swap, the HP rebate may apply to that component. We confirm the current bayren.org program list before quoting and do not list a solar-rebate line item unless one is actually open. | BayREN does not directly rebate solar; we confirm the current program list before quoting. | BayREN pays $5,000 for solar. |
| What is the best next step before signing an Oakland solar contract? | Schedule the site visit, get the PVsyst or HelioScope production model with neighborhood-microclimate derate and shading analysis, confirm SolarAPP+ eligibility through Oakland P&B, decide on the NEM 3.0 self-consumption strategy (solar-only vs solar plus battery with SGIP), and get a written quote with all line items: panels, inverter, racking, labor, permits, structural review, monitoring. Compare two or three bids on the same scope. | Compare two or three bids on the same scope before signing. | Sign today; prices are going up. |
| Our Oakland Hills address is in the Very High FHSZ. Does the solar install change because of fire rules? | Oakland Hills addresses in the CAL FIRE Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone fall under CRC R337 for wildfire-resistant construction. The PV array itself does not change, but adjacent roofing materials must be Class A fire-rated, conduit penetrations must use fire-rated boots and sealant, and combiner boxes near eaves need ignition-resistant placement. We document the FHSZ designation, the Class A roof confirmation, and any required R337 hardware in the permit drawings. | Hills addresses follow CRC R337; we document Class A roof confirmation and fire-rated hardware on the permit. | Fire rules don't change solar installs. |
| We still have some knob-and-tube wiring. Will that block the solar interconnection? | Knob-and-tube wiring on lighting branches does not by itself block a solar interconnection; the solar feeder runs into the main panel busbar, not into knob-and-tube branches. However, if the panel needs upgrade or replacement to accept the inverter output breaker, the rewiring requirement may surface. We assess at the site visit and itemize any required electrical scope alongside the solar work so you do not see a surprise change order after permitting. | K&T on lighting branches does not block solar; panel-upgrade requirements may trigger rewiring scope that we itemize upfront. | Knob-and-tube blocks all solar; you have to rewire first. |
| We are an Ava Community Energy customer. Does the solar interconnection go through Ava or PG&E? | Interconnection goes through PG&E because PG&E owns the meter and the distribution lines. The Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0) export compensation flows back through PG&E's billing as a generation credit; if you are on an Ava supply product (Bright Choice default or Renewable 100 opt-up), the export credit applies against the PG&E delivery portion of the bill and the Ava-supplied generation portion separately. Ava Community Energy (the CCA formerly known as East Bay Community Energy, rebranded October 2023) publishes its own NBT-equivalent compensation schedule; we model the actual Ava numbers, not the PG&E bundled-rate numbers, for the payback calc. | Interconnection is via PG&E; export credits split between PG&E delivery and Ava supply. We model Ava's actual NBT numbers. | Ava customers get a separate solar deal. |
| Which circuits will be backed up during an outage, and for how long? | We provide a backup-loads list (refrigerator, internet, lights, HVAC controls, well pump if any), estimate runtime in hours at typical and worst-case usage, and explain whether whole-home or essential-loads backup is recommended. | — | The battery powers the house. |
| Does my install qualify for SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program), and at what tier? | We verify current SGIP budget status before quoting: as of December 31, 2025 the ratepayer-funded General Market, Equity, and Equity Resiliency budgets are closed to new applications, and only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open — and that budget is fully reserved with new applications served via an attrition-based waitlist (selfgenca.com). We document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate, and we explain that pre-approval is required before equipment is delivered. | — | SGIP always pays out the maximum amount. |
| What is the battery's usable kWh and continuous inverter power, and how do they relate? | We specify both: kWh determines how long the backup lasts; the inverter's continuous AC output determines what can run at once (refrigerator + lights + maybe HVAC vs everything). | — | kWh is the only number that matters. |
| Is the battery AC-coupled or DC-coupled with the solar array, and why? | AC-coupled batteries use a separate inverter and are easier to retrofit to existing solar. DC-coupled batteries share an inverter with new solar and are typically more efficient end-to-end. We choose based on whether the solar array is new or existing. | — | Coupling does not matter. |
| Can we add more battery capacity later, and what are the limits? | Most modern systems support stacking additional units up to a vendor-specified maximum. We document the maximum stack today, what is needed to add capacity later (matching firmware, software update, possible electrical re-work), and whether SGIP can be applied to expansion units. | — | Buy the biggest battery today; expansion is impossible. |
| What depth-of-discharge limit does the battery use, and how does that affect usable kWh? | We explain the nameplate kWh vs usable kWh: modern LFP batteries reserve very little for cycle life (often 95 to 100 percent of nameplate is usable); older chemistries reserve 10 to 20 percent. We quote usable kWh in the proposal so you can compare like-for-like. | — | Nameplate kWh is the usable kWh. |
| What is the manufacturer warranty on the battery, and what limits it? | Most residential batteries carry a 10 to 12 year warranty, often paired with a cycle count (e.g. 6,000 to 10,000 cycles) or throughput limit (e.g. 37.8 MWh) - whichever comes first. We provide the spec sheet and explain what voids coverage. | — | Lifetime warranty; no fine print. |
| Are time-of-use arbitrage cycles counted against the warranty? | Yes. Every charge-discharge cycle counts toward the throughput limit; aggressive daily TOU arbitrage may shorten the years-based warranty window. We model expected cycles per year for your usage pattern. | — | Cycling does not count against the warranty. |
| How will the battery shift load away from PG&E peak hours? | We program the battery to charge from solar during midday and discharge during the PG&E EV2-A or E-ELEC peak window (typically 4-9pm), saving you the peak-period delta. We tune the schedule for your actual usage and rate plan. | — | The battery charges and discharges whenever. |
| How does NEM 3.0 change the battery payback? | Under NEM 3.0, export compensation dropped by roughly 75 percent, so self-consumption (using your solar via the battery instead of exporting) is now the primary battery economic driver. We model expected savings under NEM 3.0 with your specific rate plan. | — | NEM 3.0 has no effect on battery payback. |
| How will the install meet CRC 1207 / R327 fire-setback rules for energy storage? | We design the install per California Residential Code R327 (formerly section 1207): separation from windows, doors, openings into the dwelling, and other batteries; smoke and heat detectors per code; and an exterior wall location where possible. We document compliance in the permit submittal. | — | Fire setbacks are optional. |
| What is your post-install commissioning checklist? | Commissioning includes verifying battery state-of-charge reporting, testing backup-mode transfer with a simulated outage, walking through the app for backup-only vs TOU modes, and confirming the SGIP system performance metering is functioning if SGIP is part of the project. | — | We turn it on and leave. |
| Are you an installer certified by the battery manufacturer? | Yes. We provide our certification number for the specific battery brand (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ, LG Chem RESU, FranklinWH, etc.); certification is typically required to preserve full warranty coverage. | — | Certification does not matter for batteries. |
| Who handles the PG&E interconnection update for the new battery? | We submit the updated PG&E interconnection paperwork to add the battery to your existing or new solar interconnection, and we obtain the updated Permission to Operate before energizing. | — | PG&E interconnection happens automatically. |
| What panel-side breaker work or interconnection method does the battery require? | We confirm whether the battery interconnects via a back-fed breaker (with sum-of-breakers check per NEC 705.12), a supply-side tap, or a dedicated battery sub-panel; we show the calculation on the permit drawings. | — | Any spare slot will work. |
| Does the federal Section 25D residential clean energy credit apply to my battery install? | Section 25D expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Battery installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for the 30 percent §25D credit. | — | You will receive the 30 percent federal credit on your taxes. |
| Does HEEHRA or TECH Clean California currently offer a battery incentive? | Neither HEEHRA nor TECH primarily fund residential batteries; SGIP is the main California battery program. We verify current TECH scope at techcleanca.com and HEEHRA status at energy.ca.gov before citing any battery incentive. | — | HEEHRA covers batteries automatically. |
| Will the quote separate confirmed SGIP incentives from assumed? | Yes. SGIP is marked confirmed only after pre-approval is granted and the funding tier is reserved; we mark the line as assumed in the quote until then and explain the reservation status. | — | All listed incentives are yours. |
| What is the best next step before signing a battery contract? | Get a written quote with line-item pricing including usable kWh, continuous AC inverter output, AC vs DC coupling, manufacturer warranty terms (years AND cycles AND throughput), labor warranty separately, SJPermits.org permit fees, PG&E interconnection plan, and an honest SGIP workflow: as of December 31, 2025 only the AB 209-funded RSSE budget accepts new applications and it is fully reserved (attrition-based waitlist via selfgenca.com), so the proposal documents the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate. | — | Sign today to lock in SGIP before funding runs out. |
| How does SGIP apply for a residential battery in Oakland (PG&E territory) and which tiers are available? | SGIP in PG&E territory is administered by PG&E. Budget status as of 2026: per the SGIP program administrators, the ratepayer-funded Residential General (around $150 per kWh of usable capacity), Equity (around $850 per kWh for income-qualified customers), and Equity Resiliency (around $1,000 per kWh for HFTD-designated or Medical Baseline customers) budgets are no longer accepting new applications. Only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open — and that budget is fully reserved as of December 31, 2025; new RSSE applications go to a waitlist served through attrition of cancelled projects. RSSE rates were around $1,100 per kWh storage plus around $3,100 per kW solar, targeted at income-qualified solar-plus-battery customers. Pre-approval is required before installation; we verify current budget status at selfgenca.com before quoting, reserve via PG&E when the path is open, and document the reservation number (or waitlist position) in the proposal. We confirm only what we have reserved; we do not assume eligibility. | We verify current SGIP budget status; only RSSE remains open to new apps in 2026 and that budget is on a waitlist via attrition. We document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate. | Sign and we will get whatever SGIP shows up. |
| We are in the Oakland Hills marked as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Does the SGIP Equity Resiliency tier apply? | SGIP Equity Resiliency was designed for customers in high-fire-threat districts (per CPUC HFTD map) and on the Medical Baseline program. Many Oakland Hills addresses (Montclair, Skyline, Joaquin Miller, Piedmont border) fall in HFTD Tier 2 or Tier 3. As of 2026 the ratepayer-funded Equity Resiliency budget is no longer accepting new applications — only the AB 209-funded RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) tier remains open, and that budget is fully reserved with new applications on a waitlist via attrition. We verify the HFTD designation against the CPUC fire-threat map and walk through eligibility honestly before listing any SGIP line item, but practical access in 2026 is limited to the RSSE waitlist for income-qualified solar-plus-battery projects. Approval is not automatic; we list any SGIP path as pending until confirmed via selfgenca.com. | Equity Resiliency depends on HFTD designation plus other criteria; we verify before claiming the tier. | Equity Resiliency is automatic in Oakland Hills; you qualify. |
| How does adding a battery improve solar payback under NEM 3.0 on PG&E? | Under NEM 3.0, exporting solar to the grid pays roughly 75 percent less than under NEM 2.0. A battery stores midday solar for use during the 4-9pm peak window, which is the highest-rate window on PG&E E-ELEC and EV2-A. We model self-consumption ratio (typically 60-80 percent with battery vs 30-50 percent solar-only) and share the year-1 cost comparison. We do not promise a payback number; we share the model assumptions and outputs. | Battery improves payback under NEM 3.0; we model both options and share the difference. | Adding a battery always cuts your bill in half. |
| What does the Oakland Planning and Building permit process look like for a battery install? | We pull an Oakland P&B electrical permit (oaklandca.gov/departments/planning-building, via the Tyler EnerGov self-service portal). For wall-mounted batteries we confirm structural attachment per the manufacturer install manual; for floor-mounted (Tesla Powerwall 3 or FranklinWH) the floor anchor pattern goes in the permit drawings. Fire setback per CRC R331 (and R337 in the Hills FHSZ) is documented with measurements on the permit. Final card sign-off happens at inspection. We share all permit copies. Oakland review timelines run longer than SJ; we set expectations honestly. | Oakland P&B permits required; we share copies on submission and document the fire setback on the permit drawings. | Batteries under 20 kWh don't need permits. |
| Does the federal 25D credit apply to the battery in 2026? | The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, PL 119-21). Battery installs placed in service in 2026 or later are not eligible. We list the credit as expired in the proposal and do not deduct it. If the system was placed in service on or before December 31, 2025 the credit may apply; we document the placed-in-service date. | 25D expired December 31, 2025 under OBBBA; we do not deduct it for 2026 installs. | 25D applies; we deduct 30 percent from the battery cost. |
| Should the battery be AC-coupled or DC-coupled and what is the difference? | DC coupling routes solar DC directly into the battery before inverting, reducing one conversion step (roughly 2-3 percent round-trip efficiency gain). AC coupling inverts at the panel, then re-inverts back to DC for battery storage. DC coupling is cleaner for new solar plus battery installs; AC coupling is the right choice when retrofitting a battery onto an existing solar system. Tesla Powerwall 3 supports both. Enphase IQ Battery is AC-coupled by design. FranklinWH is AC-coupled. We pick the topology based on whether solar is new or existing. | DC coupling is cleaner for new systems; AC for retrofits. We pick based on whether solar is new or existing. | DC coupling is always better; AC is obsolete. |
| How do you size the battery for typical Oakland Hills PSPS events and what backup-loads should make the list? | Oakland Hills PSPS events typically run 8-24 hours, occasionally longer in extreme weather. We build a backup-loads list with you: refrigerator (1-2 kWh per day), essential lighting (LED, 1-2 kWh per day), Wi-Fi router and modem (0.5 kWh per day), cell phone charging, any medical equipment (CPAP, oxygen concentrator), and gas-furnace blower if applicable. A 13.5 kWh Powerwall covers about a day of these critical loads. We size for the design outage duration and do not assume the whole house is backed up. Cooling and EV charging are usually off the list. | We build the backup-loads list with you and size battery for the design outage duration; whole-house backup is rarely the right call. | Just back up the whole house; the battery will figure it out. |
| Should we install a critical-loads sub-panel or back up the whole house? | Whole-house backup requires a battery large enough to cover all loads including HVAC and any large appliances; runtime drops fast. Critical-loads backup runs through a sub-panel that separates the backed-up circuits (lights, fridge, Wi-Fi, outlets in critical rooms) from non-essential loads. The critical-loads approach is usually cheaper and gives longer runtime per kWh of battery. We design the critical-loads sub-panel circuit list with you and document it in the permit. Tesla Powerwall 3 and FranklinWH can do whole-home or partial; Enphase IQ Battery typically uses a critical-loads sub-panel. | Critical-loads sub-panel is usually the right cost-vs-runtime tradeoff; we design the circuit list with you. | Whole-house backup is the only worthwhile approach. |
| What does the depth-of-discharge (DoD) spec mean and how does LFP chemistry change it? | DoD is the percentage of nameplate capacity usable per cycle without warranty impact. LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries (Tesla Powerwall 3, Enphase IQ Battery 5P, FranklinWH aPower) are rated for around 95-100 percent DoD because LFP is thermally stable and tolerates near-full discharge. Older NMC chemistries (some early SimpliPhi units) rated lower. Higher DoD means more usable kWh per nameplate kWh. Tesla Powerwall 3 nameplate is 13.5 kWh with around 13 kWh usable. | LFP batteries are ~95-100 percent DoD; we use usable kWh, not nameplate, in the sizing calc. | DoD doesn't matter; just look at the nameplate. |
| What warranties cover the battery hardware and what should I scrutinize? | Tesla Powerwall 3 warranty is 10 years unlimited cycles. Enphase IQ Battery 5P is 10 years or 6,000 cycles or 28 MWh throughput, whichever first. FranklinWH aPower is 12 years 70 percent end-of-warranty capacity. Installer labor warranty (separate) runs 5-10 years. The throughput and capacity-retention numbers matter more than the year count. We list each warranty term in the proposal. | Warranties differ on years, cycles, throughput, and end-capacity. We list each term in the proposal. | All warranties are the same; just pick a brand. |
| How long will the battery actually run during a PSPS event? | Runtime is usable kWh divided by hourly load. A 13 kWh usable Powerwall covering 0.5 kW continuous (fridge cycling, LEDs, Wi-Fi, router) runs roughly 26 hours; covering 1.0 kW (above plus medical equipment) runs roughly 13 hours; covering 2.5 kW (whole house including cycling HVAC) runs roughly 5 hours. We give you a per-load-profile runtime table, not a single number. We do not promise a runtime; we show the math. | Runtime depends on the backup-loads list; we share a per-profile runtime table. | It will last all night; don't worry about loads. |
| How does NEC Article 706 and 705.12 affect the battery install? | NEC Article 706 covers Energy Storage Systems and 705.12 covers interconnection. We confirm the panel busbar rating, document the 120 percent rule math (main breaker plus inverter output breaker cannot exceed 120 percent of busbar rating), and specify any required line-side tap if the inverter output exceeds the allowed sum. We document grounding electrode per NEC 250 and any required revenue-grade metering. We do not skip the busbar math. | We confirm the busbar rating and document the NEC 705.12 math in the permit drawings. | 705.12 doesn't matter for batteries. |
| What certifications should the battery have for Oakland install? | UL 9540 is the system-level safety certification for energy storage; UL 9540A is the thermal-runaway propagation test. All major brands (Tesla, Enphase, FranklinWH, LG Energy Solution) carry UL 9540 and UL 9540A. The data sheet should show both. Oakland P&B confirms the listing in plan review. We do not install a battery without UL 9540 and 9540A. | UL 9540 + 9540A required; we confirm both on the data sheet and in the permit. | UL listings don't matter; the manufacturer covers it. |
| Tesla Powerwall 3 vs Enphase IQ Battery 5P vs FranklinWH for an Oakland install: how do you decide? | Tesla Powerwall 3 has an integrated 11.5 kW continuous inverter, supports DC-coupled new solar plus AC-coupled retrofit, and pairs with Tesla cars cleanly. Enphase IQ Battery 5P is modular (5 kWh per unit), AC-coupled, and pairs well with existing Enphase microinverter systems. FranklinWH aPower stacks two 13.6 kWh modules with a unified gateway and has the best whole-home backup capacity for the price. We match the brand to your solar topology, your backup-loads target, and whether you want modularity or maximum capacity. We do not push one brand by default. | Brand depends on solar topology and backup-loads target; we share the comparison and pick with you. | Tesla is always best; the others are junk. |
| What monitoring app comes with the battery and what does it actually show? | Tesla uses the Tesla app (solar + battery + EV in one view, real-time and historical data). Enphase uses Enlighten (per-microinverter solar and battery state-of-charge). FranklinWH uses the FranklinWH app (whole-home view with backup-loads circuit-level data). All show state of charge, daily and monthly throughput, faults, and grid-tied vs backup status. We commission monitoring at install and walk you through it. We do not consider commissioning complete until you can see live data on your phone. | We commission monitoring at install and walk you through the app. | Just download the app; you'll figure it out. |
| Can the battery do rate arbitrage on PG&E TOU even without solar? | On PG&E E-ELEC and EV2-A, charging the battery from the grid during super-off-peak (midnight-3pm) and discharging during 4-9pm peak captures a per-kWh delta of roughly 20-30 cents. Without solar, the year-1 arbitrage savings on a 13 kWh battery typically range $400-$900 depending on the rate plan and consumption pattern. This rarely pays back the hardware on its own; arbitrage is a secondary benefit on top of backup resilience. We model both scenarios. | Arbitrage savings are modest; backup resilience is the primary value. We model both. | Arbitrage will pay back the battery in 3 years. |
| Our Oakland Hills address is in the Very High FHSZ. Does the battery need to be outdoor or indoor? | CRC R337 (wildfire-resistant construction) applies to Oakland Hills addresses in the Very High FHSZ. Battery enclosures must comply with the listed installation manual for FHSZ; indoor installs in a garage or detached structure are generally allowed if the structure meets R337 envelope requirements. Outdoor installs require ignition-resistant placement and CRC R331 setbacks from the structure. We document the FHSZ designation, the proposed location, and the install-manual citation in the permit drawings. We do not install a battery in zone-0 (within 5 feet of combustible vegetation). | Hills addresses follow CRC R337 and R331 setbacks; we document the install location per the manufacturer manual. | FHSZ doesn't change battery installs. |
| What does commissioning look like at the end of the battery install? | We do a backup-test: simulate a grid outage by opening the main breaker and confirm the battery picks up critical loads within the inverter's transfer time (Tesla Powerwall 3 around 200 ms, Enphase IQ Battery 5P around 500 ms). We verify state-of-charge readings against measured voltage, confirm the gateway communicates with the manufacturer cloud and your phone, and walk through the app together. We give you a signed commissioning sheet with the measured transfer time. Without commissioning, the battery may not transfer cleanly during a real outage. | We do a backup-test simulation and share the signed commissioning sheet. | Just push the button at the end; you don't need a test. |
| What is the best next step before signing an Oakland battery contract? | Schedule a site visit, verify SGIP budget status on selfgenca.com (as of December 31, 2025 the ratepayer-funded General Market, Equity, and Equity Resiliency budgets are closed to new applications; only the AB 209-funded RSSE budget remains open and it is fully reserved — new apps go to an attrition-based waitlist, so we document the waitlist position rather than promising a rebate), decide on the backup-loads list and battery sizing, run the NEM 3.0 self-consumption model on your PG&E rate plan (E-ELEC or EV2-A), and get a written quote with line-item pricing: battery hardware, inverter, gateway, installation labor, Oakland P&B permits, structural attachment if wall-mounted, monitoring setup. Compare two or three bids on the same scope and battery brand. | Verify SGIP status on selfgenca.com — only RSSE is open to new apps and it is waitlisted — and compare two bids on the same scope before signing. | Sign today; SGIP will run out tomorrow. |
| How do you handle the grounding electrode for the battery system in an older Oakland house? | NEC Article 250 requires the ESS to be bonded to the existing grounding electrode system. Older Oakland Craftsman and bungalow homes sometimes have only a single ground rod, an undersized water-pipe bond, or both; the existing system may not meet current code for a new ESS. We measure the existing grounding electrode resistance, document compliance, and add supplemental electrodes (typically a second 8-foot copper-clad rod 6 feet from the first) if required. We include the grounding work as a line item in the proposal. | We measure existing grounding and add supplemental electrodes if required; older Oakland homes often need an upgrade. | Just bond it to the panel; that's enough. |
Green flags, reasonable caveats, red flags
Green flags
- PVsyst or HelioScope production model with neighborhood-microclimate derate (Hills vs flatland) and 3D shading analysis for mature trees
- PG&E NEM 3.0 self-consumption model with and without battery on E-ELEC or EV2-A
- Current SGIP budget status verified at selfgenca.com before quoting: ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications; only AB 209-funded RSSE remains open and is fully reserved with new applications on a waitlist served via attrition
- RSSE (Residential Solar and Storage Equity) waitlist application submitted for income-qualified solar plus battery customers; waitlist position documented
- Backup-loads list sized for typical Oakland Hills PSPS outage duration (8-24 hours)
- Structural review for Craftsman / bungalow attachment included where rafter geometry requires it
- Fire setback measurements (CRC R331 and R337 for Hills FHSZ) documented in the permit
Reasonable caveats
- Older Craftsman composition roofs over 20-25 years should re-roof before solar install
- Oakland Hills addresses in the Very High FHSZ historically qualified for the SGIP Equity Resiliency tier, but that ratepayer-funded budget is no longer accepting new applications; HFTD verification still matters for the RSSE pathway
- PG&E PTO typically 2-6 weeks after final inspection plus the $145 interconnection application fee
- Ava Community Energy customers (the CCA formerly known as East Bay Community Energy, rebranded October 2023): interconnection still flows through PG&E; export credits split between PG&E delivery and Ava supply
- Knob-and-tube wiring on lighting branches does not block solar but panel-upgrade work may surface during plan check
Red flags
- Promises specific kWh production without modeling
- Claims §25D federal credit applies to 2026+ installs
- Recommends solar-only without modeling NEM 3.0 payback
- Pitches SGIP General Market, Equity, or Equity Resiliency tiers without verifying that those budgets are no longer accepting new applications as of 2026
- Skips structural review on a Craftsman or bungalow rafter geometry
Quote checklist
Check every item before signing.
Required
Optional but recommended
Quote comparison worksheet
Print this and fill in by hand, or capture quotes side-by-side as you receive them.
| Line item | Contractor 1 | Contractor 2 | Contractor 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quote models future load (heat pump, EV, water heater) for sizing, not just past consumption. (required) | |||
| Quote uses NEM 3.0 export rates and explicitly notes the change from NEM 2.0. (required) | |||
| Quote includes roof condition assessment with remaining lifetime estimate. (required) | |||
| Quote specifies panel and inverter brand, wattage, efficiency, and warranty. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a shading analysis and string or microinverter design notes. (required) | |||
| Quote states the production guarantee (kWh/year) and how it is enforced. | |||
| Quote names the monitoring platform and any subscription cost. | |||
| Quote names who handles PG&E interconnection paperwork. (required) | |||
| Quote separates confirmed incentives from assumed with reservation status. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a 12-month production model with Oakland Hills vs flatland microclimate derate and 3D shading analysis for mature trees. (required) | |||
| Quote notes whether SolarAPP+ streamlined permitting through Oakland Planning and Building applies. | |||
| Quote names whether a stamped structural letter or engineered tie-down is required for older Craftsman or bungalow rafter geometry. (required) | |||
| Quote documents the FHSZ designation against the address and any CRC R337 hardware required for Oakland Hills installs. | |||
| Quote states usable kWh (not just nameplate) and continuous AC inverter output. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a backup-loads list with runtime estimates. (required) | |||
| Quote states whether the battery is AC-coupled or DC-coupled with the solar array. (required) | |||
| Quote states current SGIP budget status (as of 2026, ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications; only AB 209-funded RSSE remains open and that budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition) and any RSSE waitlist application reference if pursued. (required) | |||
| Quote confirms compliance with CRC 1207 / R327 fire setback rules for the chosen install location. (required) | |||
| Quote specifies battery warranty (years, cycles, throughput) and labor warranty separately. (required) | |||
| Quote names the battery monitoring platform and any user-side controls (time-of-use scheduling, backup-mode toggle). | |||
| Quote names who handles PG&E interconnection updates for the battery. (required) | |||
| Quote explains the SGIP RSSE waitlist application workflow and timeline before equipment is delivered (RSSE is the only SGIP tier accepting new applications as of 2026, and its budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition). | |||
| Quote names the SGIP path pursued: as of 2026 only the AB 209-funded RSSE remains open to new applications, and its budget is fully reserved with new apps on a waitlist served via attrition. Ratepayer-funded General Market / Equity / Equity Resiliency budgets are no longer accepting new applications. Includes any RSSE waitlist reference number. (required) | |||
| Quote names who pulls the City of Oakland Planning and Building electrical permit and itemizes CRC R331 (and R337 for Hills) fire-setback measurements. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a year-1 self-consumption and cost model under PG&E NEM 3.0 with and without battery on E-ELEC or EV2-A. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a backup-loads list sized for typical Oakland Hills PSPS outage duration (8-24 hours). |
Incentive verification worksheet
| Program | Amount | Eligibility | Pre-approval? | Confidence | Verified | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit (solar PV) | Expired Dec 31, 2025. For 2023–2025: 30% of total installed cost, no cap. | EXPIRED: This federal credit ended Dec 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21, signed July 4, 2025). Expenditures made after Dec 31, 2025 do not qualify — for §25D, the IRS treats the expenditure date as the date the installation is placed in service (completed), not the date of payment. A homeowner who paid a deposit in 2025 but whose system was placed in service in 2026 does not qualify. For installations placed in service during 2023–2025, the credit applied to solar PV systems supplying electricity to a U.S. residential dwelling used by the taxpayer as a residence (principal residence not required; second homes qualified; rentals not occupied by the taxpayer did not qualify), satisfying applicable fire and electrical codes, with installation costs included in the credit basis. The credit was nonrefundable with carryforward. Homeowners with eligible 2025 placed-in-service installations may still claim the credit on their 2025 federal tax return. Verify with a qualified tax professional. | Verify | high | 2026-05-30 | Internal Revenue Service, Internal Revenue Service, ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE) |
| Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit (battery storage) | Expired Dec 31, 2025. For 2023–2025: 30% of total installed cost, no cap (battery capacity at least 3 kWh). | EXPIRED: This federal credit ended Dec 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21, signed July 4, 2025). Expenditures made after Dec 31, 2025 do not qualify — for §25D, the IRS treats the expenditure date as the date the installation is placed in service (completed), not the date of payment. A homeowner who paid a deposit in 2025 but whose system was placed in service in 2026 does not qualify. For installations placed in service during 2023–2025, the credit applied to battery storage systems with a rated capacity of at least 3 kilowatt-hours installed in a U.S. home used by the taxpayer as a residence (existing homes and new construction; principal residence not required; rentals not occupied by the taxpayer did not qualify). Standalone batteries (not paired with solar) were explicitly eligible from Jan 1, 2023 onward. The credit was nonrefundable with carryforward. Homeowners with eligible 2025 placed-in-service installations may still claim the credit on their 2025 federal tax return. Verify with a qualified tax professional. | Verify | high | 2026-05-30 | Internal Revenue Service, Internal Revenue Service, ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE) |
| California Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) — residential battery storage | As of 2026-06-08, only the Residential Solar and Storage Equity (RSSE) AB 209 budget remains open for new applications, and that budget is fully reserved — new applications are placed on a waitlist served through attrition of cancelled projects. Per-kWh rates by tier (for context — only RSSE accepts new apps in 2026): RSSE $1,100/kWh storage + $3,100/kW solar; Equity Resiliency $1,000/kWh; Equity $850/kWh; San Joaquin Valley Residential $1,100/kWh; Small Residential Storage / General Market $150/kWh. Per-project totals depend on installed battery capacity (kWh) and tier eligibility. | Administered by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and delivered through utility program administrators (PG&E, Center for Sustainable Energy / SDG&E territory, SoCalGas, SCE; LADWP customers are not eligible). Budget status as of 2026-06-08: per SGIP program administrator (CSE / sgipsd.org), 'as of December 31, 2025, all new application submissions are strictly available to the Residential Solar and Storage Equity (RSSE) AB 209 budget. At this time, all available RSSE AB 209 funding has been reserved.' New RSSE applications are placed on a waitlist in order received and funded through attrition of cancelled projects. The ratepayer-funded General Market, Equity, and Equity Resiliency budgets are not accepting new applications. Tier rates for reference (applicable to reservations made while budgets were open): (1) Residential Solar and Storage Equity (RSSE) — $1,100/kWh storage plus $3,100/kW solar; low-income residential customers; AB 209-funded; reservation window opened June 2, 2025. (2) Equity Resiliency — $1,000/kWh; IOU residential customers in high fire-threat districts and/or medical baseline / income-qualified. (3) Equity — $850/kWh; income-qualified IOU residential customers. (4) San Joaquin Valley Residential — $1,100/kWh; PG&E and SCE pilot footprint. (5) Small Residential Storage / General Market — $150/kWh. Reservations require a one-year completion window and enrollment in a qualified Demand Response program. Tier eligibility, income documentation, HFTD-tier residency, and budget-availability status must be verified against the current SGIP Handbook and the customer's utility administrator before any contractor work begins. | Yes | high | 2026-06-08 | California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) |
| California Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0) — solar export compensation framework | Policy framework, not a direct rebate. Excess solar generation exported to the grid is compensated at a rate reflecting the time-varying grid value of that generation (Avoided Cost Calculator methodology), rather than at the retail electricity rate that NEM 2.0 used. Net export compensation under the Net Billing Tariff is typically materially lower than under NEM 2.0; pairing solar with battery storage may materially affect project economics under this framework. | POLICY IN EFFECT — NOT A REBATE: The Net Billing Tariff (NBT), commonly called 'NEM 3.0,' is the current Net Energy Metering framework for new residential solar interconnections in California, adopted by CPUC Decision 22-12-056 and effective for applications submitted on or after 2023-04-15. It applies to new customer-generator interconnections in the three large investor-owned utility territories: Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). LADWP and other publicly owned utilities operate their own net-metering tariffs and are not covered by NBT. Under NBT, onsite solar generation first offsets the customer's own consumption; excess generation exported to the grid is compensated at a time-varying export rate based on the grid's avoided cost rather than the retail rate. Existing NEM 1.0 / NEM 2.0 customers are generally grandfathered under the legacy tariff for a defined period from their original interconnection date — verify against the customer's utility for the legacy term. Homeowners considering new residential solar in PG&E / SCE / SDG&E territory should model project economics specifically under NBT, with and without paired battery storage, before signing a contract. | Interconnection application required, not a financial preapproval. | high | 2026-05-30 | California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) |
Permit verification worksheet
| Permit | Jurisdiction | Applies to | Confidence | Verified | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical + building permit | city | Solar Panels | medium | 2026-05-31 | City of Oakland, City of Oakland, City of Oakland |
| Electrical + building permit | city | Battery Storage | medium | 2026-05-31 | City of Oakland, City of Oakland, City of Oakland, City of Oakland |