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.

How It Works: A Guide to Going Solar in Connecticut with SunVivo 

Switching to solar energy in Connecticut is easier than you might think, and SunVivo is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re a homeowner or part of a multi-family affordable housing community, the Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (RRES) program offers incredible incentives to help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint. Here’s how it works:  

Step 1: Connect with a Licensed Solar Installer
The first step is to contact a licensed solar installer in Connecticut. SunVivo partners with the best installers in the state to make the process seamless. Our trusted partners will:  
- Design a solar system tailored to your energy needs.  
- Handle all necessary permits and paperwork.  
- Submit your application to Eversource or UI (United Illuminating).  

Step 2: Choose Your Incentive Option 
When applying for the RRES program, you’ll have two incentive options to choose from: Buy-All and **Netting**. Both are designed to provide a strong return on investment, and you may also qualify for additional income-based incentives.  

Option 1: Buy-All Incentive
With the Buy-All Incentive, all the power your solar system produces is exported to the electric grid. Here’s what you need to know:  

Key Features:
- Eversource or UI will purchase your power at a rate approved by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA).  
- You’ll receive compensation as either an on-bill credit to offset your monthly bill or a cash payment once per quarter. You can even split the compensation between the two options.  
- You’ll purchase the electricity you need to power your home directly from Eversource or UI.  
- Unused on-bill credits can be cashed out annually.  

Current Incentive Rates: 
- 2024: $0.3189 per kWh  
- 2025: $0.3195 per kWh  
*This rate includes the Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) value and is locked in for 20 years.*  

Meter Setup:
- Separate meters will be installed to measure your power generation and consumption.  

Option 2: Netting Incentive
With the Netting Incentive, your solar system first powers your home, and any excess energy is exported to the grid.  

Key Features:
- Excess power is “netted” at the same rate you pay Eversource or UI for electricity.  
- Net credits are applied to your bill in dollars and can offset future charges.  
- Excess credits can be carried over monthly and cashed out if you stop electric service.  
- Projects applying in 2025 are subject to a $0.005/kWh on-bill charge, listed as a “Solar Energy Adjustment.”  

Current Incentive Rate: 
- The netting incentive rate is the current retail rate plus a quarterly REC payment.  
- The REC payment rate for 2024 and 2025 is $0.000 per kWh, but projects may still qualify for adders.  

Meter Setup:
- A new meter will measure your energy consumption and exports, while a second meter tracks your solar production. 

What Are Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)?
A REC is generated for every megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity your system produces, whether you use it or export it to the grid. RECs represent the environmental benefits of renewable energy and are purchased by utilities to meet state renewable energy goals.  

Additional Income-Based Incentives
You may qualify for extra incentives if:  
- Your income is at or below 60% of the state median income, or  
- Your solar installation is in an economically distressed community.  

Buy-All Incentives (2024-2025):
- At or below 60% state median income: $0.055/kWh  
- In an economically distressed community: $0.0275/kWh  

Netting Incentives (2024-2025):
- At or below 60% state median income: $0.035/kWh  
- In an economically distressed community: $0.0175/kWh  

*Note: Participation in certain utility programs (e.g., Winter Protection Program, Low Income Discount Rate) also qualifies you for these incentives.*  

Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the RRES program, you must:  
- Be a current or future Eversource or UI customer.  
- Live in a 1-4 family property.  
- Not be enrolled in the Connecticut Green Bank’s Residential Solar Incentive Program (RSIP).  
- Install a system sized ≤ 25 kW (battery storage is eligible).  

System Size Recommendations:
Your installer will recommend a system size based on your highest average annual consumption over the last 5 years. You can also request additional allowances for:  
- Electric vehicles (3,285 kWh per vehicle).  
- Whole-home air source heat pump (3,608 kWh).  
- Whole-home ground source heat pump (2,458 kWh). 

Why Choose SunVivo?
At SunVivo, we simplify your transition to solar energy by connecting you with trusted install partners who handle everything from site surveys and engineering to permitting, installation, and inspections. Our goal is to ensure your solar project is completed efficiently and to the highest standards, so you can enjoy maximum financial and environmental benefits.  

Take the First Step Toward Energy Independence
The RRES program is a game-changer for Connecticut residents looking to harness the power of solar energy. Whether you’re a homeowner or part of a multi-family affordable housing community, now is the perfect time to make the switch to clean, renewable energy.  

Ready to get started? Contact SunVivo today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you benefit from the RRES program. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for Connecticut. 

**Disclaimer:** This blog is for informational purposes only. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about the RRES program, please refer to the official program manual or contact your local utility provider.

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