Thinking about adding solar panels and a home battery in Pasadena but not sure where to start? You are not alone. Between sizing rules, interconnection steps, and changing incentives, the process can feel complex. This guide breaks down Pasadena Water and Power’s requirements and what buyers and sellers should consider so you can move forward with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Why solar + battery in Pasadena
Pasadena has a formal goal of 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030, and PWP is investing in local and utility-scale storage to support that target. Projects like the Glenarm battery energy storage system help store daytime solar for evening use and shape future interconnection policy. You can explore how PWP is transforming its power mix on the utility’s power sources page at PWP resource planning.
For your home, solar paired with a battery can give you outage backup, help shift daytime generation to evening use, and reduce demand during peak hours. PWP emphasizes that solar panels alone do not power your home during an outage without battery storage and proper equipment. Read more about backup expectations in PWP’s guidance on customer self-generation and storage.
System sizing and eligibility
As of October 2025, PWP allows most residential solar systems to be sized up to 150% of your maximum annual usage over the past five years. Larger systems may be possible if you pair solar with storage or show a specific need, subject to a grid capacity review. See the City’s update on expanded sizing in Pasadena Water and Power advances customer solar goals.
Interconnection forms vary by size. PWP uses a simplified process for small systems up to 15 kW of combined inverter capacity, while systems over 15 kW use a different agreement and may have additional insurance requirements. You can find the current forms and steps in PWP’s Solar Application Instructions.
How the PWP process works
Step 1: Pre-design and estimate
Start with a licensed solar installer to assess your roof, electric panel, and usage history. Ask about pairing the array with a battery sized for your critical loads. Your installer will help align system size with PWP’s rules and your goals.
Step 2: Online application in PowerClerk
Your installer submits an interconnection application through PWP’s PowerClerk portal. Typical documents include your site plan, single-line diagram, signed contract, a recent PWP bill, and the appropriate interconnection agreement. You will also select your Net Surplus Compensation billing frequency during enrollment.
Step 3: Permits and installation
After PWP’s initial review, your contractor secures building and electrical permits from the City. Installation proceeds once permits are issued. If you have an HOA, get written approval before work begins.
Step 4: Inspection, meter swap, and PTO
When the City signs off, the contractor uploads final approvals to PowerClerk. As of October 2025, PWP typically targets inspection within about 5 to 7 business days after permit signoffs. After passing, PWP installs a bi-directional meter and issues Permission to Operate. PWP also supports virtual inspections when you provide required photos.
How export credits work with PWP
PWP’s version of net metering is called Net Surplus Compensation. When your system exports energy, you receive credits that reconcile either annually or on a monthly or bi-monthly basis. As of October 2025, annual reconciliation uses PWP’s average energy charge plus a 2.5 cents per kWh renewable premium, while monthly or bi-monthly settlement adds a flat 6.6 cents per kWh incentive. Balances over 50 dollars can be paid out on request. Details are outlined on PWP’s Net Surplus Compensation page.
Incentives and tax credits in 2025
Local PWP rebates
As of October 2025, PWP does not offer a residential solar panel rebate. The utility has stated it is evaluating options for future battery storage incentives, but no residential battery rebate was listed on PWP’s consumer pages at this time. See PWP’s overview in Solar Power in Pasadena.
State SGIP battery incentives
California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program is the state’s largest battery rebate, but it is administered in investor-owned utility territories like SCE and PG&E. PWP customers are generally outside those territories unless a special arrangement is announced. Check current rules on the CPUC’s SGIP overview if you are exploring equity or resiliency incentives.
Federal credits and timing
Federal residential clean energy credits changed in 2025. Do not assume a 30% credit will be available for systems placed in service after December 31, 2025. PWP advises homeowners to verify current IRS guidance and consult a tax professional before making purchase decisions. Review PWP’s consumer guidance in Solar Power in Pasadena, then confirm your specific eligibility with your tax advisor.
Costs, value, and resale considerations
Ownership and contracts matter at sale. Owned systems usually transfer with the property, while leased or PPA systems require buyers to assume the agreement or the seller to buy it out. Keep your permit set, PWP Permission to Operate letter, and interconnection documents in your disclosure package.
If you have an HOA, get board approval before you apply for permits. During listing, be clear about what your battery will support and for how long. For example, a modest battery may back up lights and refrigeration for several hours but not a whole-house HVAC system.
For safety and insurability, match battery chemistry and warranty to your needs and review PWP’s interconnection insurance requirements, especially for systems over 15 kW. Current paperwork and thresholds are provided in the Solar Application Instructions.
Quick homeowner checklist
- Review your last 12 months of usage and discuss a solar + storage design sized to your goals.
- Confirm current PWP rules for sizing up to 150% of historical usage and any feeder capacity constraints that may apply.
- Ask your installer to start the PowerClerk application and gather required documents.
- Secure HOA approval if applicable, then apply for City building and electrical permits.
- Choose your Net Surplus Compensation billing frequency and understand how credits reconcile.
- If you want backup, identify critical loads, confirm transfer switch or backup panel needs, and size the battery accordingly.
- Verify current federal tax rules with a tax professional before you finalize contracts.
Work with a design-led local partner
If you are remodeling or building new, planning for solar and a battery early can simplify electrical design, roof layout, and equipment placement. Steven James Design & Development coordinates design, construction management, and brokerage so your project is both beautifully resolved and market ready. We collaborate with your selected solar contractor, integrate the permit set, and help sellers package clean disclosures that protect value. When you are ready to discuss your Pasadena property, connect with Steven James Design & Development.
FAQs
How does PWP credit exported solar energy?
- PWP’s Net Surplus Compensation credits exports, with annual or monthly/bi-monthly reconciliation; monthly or bi-monthly adds a 6.6 cents per kWh incentive in addition to the energy rate and a 2.5 cents premium, as outlined on PWP’s Net Surplus Compensation page.
Will solar panels power my home during an outage in Pasadena?
- Not without a battery and proper islanding equipment; PWP notes solar-only systems shut down during outages for safety, so pair panels with storage if backup is important.
Can Pasadena homeowners use California’s SGIP battery rebate?
- SGIP is administered in investor-owned utility territories; PWP customers are generally not eligible unless a specific arrangement is announced, so check the CPUC’s SGIP overview for current eligibility.
Does PWP offer a residential solar rebate today?
- As of October 2025, PWP states it does not offer a solar panel rebate and is evaluating the potential for storage incentives on its consumer pages.
How long does interconnection and PTO usually take?
- After City signoffs, PWP typically targets inspection within about 5 to 7 business days, then completes the meter swap and issues Permission to Operate, assuming your project passes review and inspection.
