Energy
Solar + Storage: Your Defense Against Rising Energy Costs
Homeowners should consider their energy security as utility rates are increasing about 5% annually, outpacing inflation, and grid demand is rising due to AI data centers. There is a time-sensitive incentive to act, as federal tax credits for owning a solar system require the project to be completed by December 31st of this…
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Key takeaways
Homeowners should consider their energy security as utility rates are increasing about 5% annually, outpacing inflation, and grid demand is rising due to AI data centers.
There is a time-sensitive incentive to act, as federal tax credits for owning a solar system require the project to be completed by December 31st of this…
Homeowners should consider their energy security as utility rates are increasing about 5% annually, outpacing inflation, and grid demand is rising due to AI data centers. There is a time-sensitive incentive to act, as federal tax credits for owning a solar system require the project to be completed by December 31st of this year. For those who choose to lease a system or use a power purchase agreement, the installation deadline extends to the end of 2027. In many areas, particularly states like California and Hawaii, it now also makes financial sense to add a battery backup, which offers protection from blackouts and may provide utility discounts.
About the author
Mark Stout has worked in the solar power and energy storage industry since 2005, with more than 1,800 MW of project experience spanning development, acquisition, and operations. He is the founder and CEO of StoutPower Consulting, a CPUC GO 156 Certified Diverse Business Enterprise, advising IPPs, developers, and landowners on solar, storage, and green hydrogen projects. His recent work includes leading development for large-scale solar and storage projects with Candela Renewables/Naturgy and supporting RWE’s California BESS portfolio. Previously, he led Ormat Technologies’ Western US Energy Storage team, managed flywheel projects at Amber Kinetics, and advanced landmark solar projects at Cleantech America. Mark holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois and an M.A. from UC Berkeley’s Energy and Resources Group.
