ConnectedSolutions
Program Overview
The ConnectedSolutions program offers Massachusetts homeowners the opportunity to earn significant performance-based rewards for using qualifying battery storage systems to support the local electric grid. By discharging stored energy during periods of peak summer demand, participants help stabilize the infrastructure, reduce the need for peaking power plants, and lower local air pollution.
How It Works
Once enrolled, your battery system is remotely managed during “peak demand” events. These typically occur in the summer (June 1 – September 30) on hot days when the grid is under the most stress.
- Event Frequency: Typically 30–60 times per summer.
- Duration: Events last a maximum of 3 hours, usually between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
- User Control: You receive advance notice of events and can opt out at any time through your battery settings.
- Outage Protection: Set your preferred reserve level to ensure backup power is always available during outages.
Eligibility
- Equipment: Systems must be internet-connected and meet the program’s technical interconnection specifications.
- Customer Qualifications: You must be a residential electric customer in Massachusetts.
- Ineligible Areas: Customers served by Municipal Light Plants (MLPs) are generally ineligible for the statewide ConnectedSolutions program.
Incentives
Participants earn incentives based on their average performance across all summer events.
- Rate: The incentive is currently $275 per kilowatt (kW) of average performance.
- Earnings: A typical single-battery setup can earn approximately $1,200 – $1,500 per year.
- Lock-in: New participants can lock in their incentive rate for the first five years of enrollment.
How to Enroll
Homeowners using EG4 storage systems can begin the process directly through the EG4 Grid Services portal.
- Visit the EG4 Webpage or the EG4 Connect App.
- Navigate to the “Grid Services” section and select Massachusetts ConnectedSolutions.
- Follow the prompts to sync your system and submit your utility account details.
Disclaimer
Participation is voluntary. Opting out of events will reduce your average performance metric and, consequently, your annual reward. Systems cannot be enrolled in multiple “active” demand response programs simultaneously. Enrollment remains open as long as program funding is available; early registration is encouraged to maximize your five-year incentive window.