Utility interconnection · Northern California

PG&E Interconnection: what happens after you say yes

Soft costs and surprise process are why excited buyers ghost installers. This checklist is a planning overview — always confirm current rules with the authority having jurisdiction and your utility.

1. 1

   Apply for interconnection (Rule 21)

   Submit a PG&E interconnection application for your inverter/system size. For residential NEM / Net Billing Tariff (successor to NEM 2.0 / NEM 3.0 era), use the standard online application.

   PG&E Interconnection →
2. 2

   Net Billing Tariff awareness

   California's Net Billing Tariff (often referred to with NEM 3.0 messaging) credits exports at avoided-cost-based rates. Pairing solar with battery storage typically improves self-consumption and bill savings versus export-heavy designs.

3. 3

   Permission to Operate (PTO)

   After city/county final inspection and PG&E review, receive Permission to Operate. Do not energize export until PTO is granted.

4. 4

   Final meter / billing setup

   Confirm your rate schedule and that the bi-directional meter (or equivalent metering) is correctly reflecting generation and usage.

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