Connecticut Energy Storage Solutions 2026: The New Performance-Based Deal

Verified 2026-08-03  Funding changes monthly.

Quick answer: Connecticut pays $30–$130/kWh enrollment + $300–$550 per kW-year for 10 years through Energy Storage Solutions. Current status: Open — restructured April 1, 2026; the old 'up to $16,000 upfront' ended for new applicants.
ProgramEnergy Storage Solutions
Value$30–$130/kWh enrollment + $300–$550 per kW-year for 10 years
StatusOpen — restructured April 1, 2026; the old 'up to $16,000 upfront' ended for new applicants (verified August 2026)
Federal creditNone — 25C/25D expired Dec 31, 2025 (OBBBA)

How it works

PURA overhauled the program effective April 1, 2026 (Docket 25-08-05). New participants get a smaller enrollment incentive — $30/kWh standard, or $130/kWh if you're on a designated 'grid edge' circuit — plus performance payments of $300–$550 per kW each year for 10 years, earned by letting Eversource or UI dispatch your battery during summer and winter peak events (higher rates for underserved and low-income customers). Passive dispatch is gone; payments are tied to active dispatch participation.

Stacking with other programs

The 10-year performance payments replace the old upfront-plus-dispatch stack; there is no separate upfront rebate to stack on. Grid-edge, underserved, and low-income tiers carry the higher rates.

Next step

Size your backup needs first, then compare installed batteries. Get 2–3 installer quotes — the installer files the incentive paperwork.

Run the sizing calculator →

Frequently asked questions

Is there still a federal tax credit for home batteries in 2026?

No — the federal 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit expired December 31, 2025 under the OBBBA. Connecticut's Energy Storage Solutions is now the primary incentive for Connecticut residents.

How much can I get from Connecticut's program?

$30–$130/kWh enrollment + $300–$550 per kW-year for 10 years. PURA overhauled the program effective April 1, 2026 (Docket 25-08-05).

Is Connecticut's program still accepting applications?

As of our August 2026 verification: Open — restructured April 1, 2026; the old 'up to $16,000 upfront' ended for new applicants. Funding changes monthly — confirm directly with the program administrator before contracting.

Sources

Other battery programs