In the context of NEM 3.0’s impact on new commercial and industrial (C&I) solar projects in California, three critical insights emerge. Firstly, Stem’s analysis highlights the varied implications of NEM 3.0 for such projects, which depend on factors such as system size and load profile. This means that while some sites may witness significant reductions in returns, others can counterbalance the loss of export revenue by incorporating battery storage – a crucial strategy for maintaining overall value.

Secondly, the importance of integrating batteries becomes increasingly evident under NEM 3.0. As the tariff diminishes export values during peak solar production, the role of battery storage intensifies. Batteries enable the consumption of self-generated solar energy and can supply excess power to the grid during periods of peak demand. This, in turn, contributes to the anticipated increase in storage attachment rates for new solar ventures.

Lastly, the significance of precise modeling takes center stage. Successfully navigating California’s Net Billing Tariff intricacies necessitates accurate modeling to optimize both onsite solar consumption and export activities during peak hours. This strategic approach serves to mitigate project risks and enhance ROI by ensuring the seamless operation of solar + storage systems.

For a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of NEM 3.0 on your solar + storage projects, we invite you to download this informative white paper and explore the capabilities of Athena.