Unlocking the Power of Solar Energy: A Guide to Connecticut’s Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (RRES) Program

As the world shifts toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, Connecticut is leading the way with its Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (RRES) program. Designed to encourage the adoption of residential solar energy systems, the RRES program offers homeowners and multi-family affordable housing properties the opportunity to reduce their energy bills, support local jobs, and contribute to the state’s ambitious climate goals.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key aspects of the RRES program, including eligibility requirements, incentive structures, and how you can take advantage of this initiative to power your home with clean, renewable energy.

What is the RRES Program? The RRES program, established under Public Act 19-35, is a collaborative effort between The Connecticut Light & Power Company (Eversource Energy) and The United Illuminating Company (UI). It serves as the successor to the Connecticut Green Bank’s Residential Solar Investment Program (RSIP) and is designed to support the growth of residential solar installations across the state.
The program offers two primary incentive structures:

1. Buy-All Tariff: Under this structure, the utility purchases all the energy and renewable energy certificates (RECs) generated by your solar system. You receive a fixed, long-term payment for the energy exported to the grid.
2. Netting Tariff: This structure allows you to use the energy generated by your solar system to offset your home’s electricity consumption. Any excess energy exported to the grid is compensated at the retail rate.

Both options provide a 20-year payment commitment, ensuring long-term financial benefits for participants.

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