Photovoltaic Energy Storage Agreement

What is a solar power purchase agreement (PPA)?

PPAs are an easy way for governments to “go solar” without needing to use their own upfront capital funds and without the responsibility of managing solar project construction, ownership, and operation. PPAs can be cash flow positive from day one (Better Buildings Finance Navigator: Power Purchase Agreement).

Is energy storage a viable option for utility-scale solar energy systems?

Energy storage has become an increasingly common component of utility-scale solar energy systems in the United States. Much of NREL's analysis for this market segment focuses on the grid impacts of solar-plus-storage systems, though costs and benefits are also frequently considered.

How are solar and battery storage projects financed?

ased on realized savings. In some cases, the solar and battery storage portions of a project may be financed through separate mechanisms, such as a PPA for solar generation, and an ESA or monthly lease

How do I prepare for a PPA or self-ownership of solar?

To prepare for a PPA or self-ownership of solar (or solar + battery storage) project, EECBG Program awardees will need to identify government departments that should be consulted about solar installation projects, such as facilities/public works; finance; legal; procurement; sustainability; and economic development.

Should a solar project include battery storage?

In either a PPA or self-ownership, solar projects that also include battery storage are more complicated than solar-only projects since they need to carefully establish rules for how and when the battery is used. EECBG Program awardees interested in this option, should review the plans early with their local utility.

Are solar PPAs viable?

Solar PPAs are also viable when the solar project is not located on a government property, but the government receives the delivered electricity output. These so-called “Off-site” PPAs are popular with large energy users with insufficient space to host large solar arrays. A PPA is typically 15 to 30 years long.