This past weekend’s storm left many homes across Washington in the dark, and the wave of generator inquiries we’ve received since shows just how vital reliable backup power has become. As homeowners look for ways to stay prepared, it’s worth knowing that generator systems aren’t the only solution.
Washington residents now have access to significant battery incentives through Puget Sound Energy’s (PSE) Flex Batteries program—an opportunity that can make backup power more affordable for qualified customers.
Understanding Battery Storage After a Storm
When severe weather knocks out power, battery systems keep essential circuits running—refrigeration, communications, lighting—without the noise or fuel needs of a generator. While many customers contact us about generator options first, batteries are quickly gaining interest as homeowners learn about the new financial support now available through PSE. These incentives can substantially offset installation costs, making battery storage a stronger consideration for those who want protection from future outages.
What the PSE Flex Batteries Program Offers
PSE’s Flex Batteries program provides customers with upfront payments and ongoing credits for allowing their home battery systems to support the electrical grid during high-demand periods. Here’s what eligible homeowners can expect:
- Up to $1,000 upfront for each qualified battery installed.
- Up to $500 per year in bill credits per battery for participating in Flex events.
That means your investment in backup power continues to provide financial benefit even when you’re not using it for emergencies.
Enhanced Incentives for Qualifying Customers
Beyond the standard Flex Batteries incentive, PSE also offers enhanced programs for specific households, especially those who experience frequent power loss or rely on medical devices that require uninterrupted power. MAD Energy NW’s recent guidance highlights these opportunities:
- High Outage Incentive: Customers who experience a high number of outages per year may be eligible for an additional $5,000 toward their battery installation.
- Medical Equipment Incentive: Households with qualifying medical devices, as well as some low-income customers on reduced billing, may be eligible for a $10,000 incentive to support the purchase of a backup battery system.
These enhanced programs ensure that customers with the greatest need for reliable power receive meaningful assistance in securing it.
Partnering With a PSE-Preferred Installer
To access the $5,000 and $10,000 enhanced incentives, customers must work with a PSE-preferred installer. MAD Energy NW is one of only a handful of contractors in Washington authorized to complete these installations under the program. This means we can help customers apply for the correct incentive level, ensure their system meets all program requirements, and handle the installation process to PSE’s standards.
Working with a preferred installer also helps streamline approval, reducing delays and confusion that can arise when applying independently or through non-participating providers.
How Incentives and Generators Fit Together
We know that many homeowners are primarily searching for generator solutions following the weekend’s outages. Generators remain an excellent option for immediate power restoration, especially in extended or widespread outages. However, battery incentives now make it easier to combine technologies for greater flexibility.
For instance, a generator can handle high-demand loads during long outages, while a battery system can maintain quiet, fuel-free operation for smaller or overnight needs. With PSE’s financial support, this hybrid setup is becoming more accessible and cost-effective than ever before.
What to Know Before You Apply
If you’re considering a backup system, there are a few important details to keep in mind:
- Enhanced incentives ($5,000 or $10,000) are available only through PSE-preferred installers.
- Customers must meet PSE’s eligibility criteria for outage frequency, medical equipment, or income-based programs.
- Incentives apply to the purchase and installation of qualifying battery systems only; they cannot be applied to generators or unrelated electrical work.
- Customers are responsible for ensuring their system is connected and operational to receive ongoing Flex event credits.
We help each customer confirm eligibility, complete required documentation, and configure systems to ensure full compliance with PSE’s standards.
Why Now Is the Right Time
The recent storm served as a reminder of how unpredictable the grid can be and how costly downtime becomes when power is lost. By taking advantage of these battery incentives now, homeowners can reduce their upfront costs while strengthening their home’s resilience before the next major outage.
For those already exploring generator installation, adding a battery system is no longer out of reach. It’s a strategic upgrade that Washington’s incentive programs help make possible.
Strengthen Your Backup Power Plan
We’re here to help you understand your options and secure every available rebate or credit for your installation.
Contact MAD Energy NW to explore today’s battery incentives, determine your eligibility, and prepare your home for whatever the next storm brings.
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