A new funding initiative will provide hundreds of low-income homeowners in Los Angeles with solar panels and battery storage systems at no cost, as part of California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP). The application process will open on September 29 for customers of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP).
The SGIP, developed by the California Public Utilities Commission, aims to decrease greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing the reliability of the state’s electrical grid. This latest funding opportunity is focused on single-family homes and multifamily buildings that meet specific income and geographic criteria.
Eligible single-family households must earn 80% or less of the area median income (AMI) and provide proof of income. For multifamily properties, eligibility requires having at least five deed-restricted affordable units and being situated in areas designated as disadvantaged by the state.
While the program is funded by the state, the installation process and application management largely involve third-party developers such as Haven Energy. The company has emerged as a significant contributor to the SGIP, claiming to have prepared over 1,500 applications statewide since the reopening of the Residential Storage and Self-Generation Equity (RSSE) track earlier this year.
In California, energy reliability is a pressing issue, especially during wildfire season when power outages are common. Earlier this year, LADWP customers experienced almost one million outages due to the Palisades and Eaton wildfires. Additionally, with LADWP rates set to rise by 11% in 2025 and continue to trend upwards, this initiative could provide vital relief for low-income households.
Haven estimates that between 1,000 and 1,500 customers may qualify for this latest round of SGIP funding. However, as with previous offerings, funds will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, emphasizing the importance of timely applications for interested households. This program represents a significant step toward supporting energy independence and sustainability in the community.