September 2024

916-824-1800

New technology and rebates

There are new products and rebates on the horizon and our talented humans were on the frontlines learning about them this month.

Check out the fun things we learned at the RE+ 2024 conference and finally an update on the Inflation Reduction Act.

Hope you're having a purrfect start to fall. We're here for all of your electrical needs. Please reach out if we, or the humans, can help!


Bella, Caspian and Shasta

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
REBATES

Did you miss

last month's newsletter? There was a nutty story about why you might want a home safety inspection. 🐿️

AUGUST NEWSLETTER

BLACK CAT SPECIAL


TAKE 7% OFF UP TO $500 ON ANY OPEN OR UNSOLD ESTIMATES UNTIL OCTOBER 31!



The Latest in Green Energy

We recently spent a few days in Southern California at the world's largest green energy conference. The focus is especially on solar and energy storage systems. This year, we attended with the intention of firming up our vendor relationships and learning how the latest technology can support our customers. Connected Technology employees who attended include Bill, Connected Technology Principal, Lux, Inside Solar Sales, and Ellie, Solar Admin Support. 



Here are some cool things we learned:

  • The Tesla Powerwall 3 is making huge impacts on the energy storage industry, especially in regards to its use of the Tesla Backup Switch. Competing battery manufacturers are now working hard to build a similar meter collar disconnect. This will reduce the cost of battery installations for all brands, not just Tesla.🎉


  • In preparation for the electrical upgrades encouraged by rebates created by the Inflation Reduction Act, many electrical manufacturers are releasing load management products with integrated Power Control Systems (PCS). This will allow for electrical upgrades without needing a service panel upgrade.


  • SPAN is one manufacturer in which the PCS system is making a difference now. Their latest model, plan for release Quarter 1 2025, will have integration with several battery manufacturers which allow the battery systems to last longer when off grid, extending capacity.


  • Eaton is releasing a PCS system that is designed to retrofit their existing electrical service panels. This includes smart breakers and a smart disconnect which will provide load management and prevent service panel replacements, again saving customers substantial money when adding new electrical circuits or battery circuits.


  • Schneider Electric has released the first smart electrical service panel that includes a meter socket. This is a strong option for people who have to replace their service panel for safety reasons, like folks with Zinsco electrical panels. This smart service panel includes a variety of options to provide flexibility when off the grid.




This was fun! We met Solarboi, whose primary purpose is to bring boots-on-the-ground perspective to decision makers and industry professionals. He advocates for workers, customers, and more robust solar installations.

You can check out the interview we did with him on Youtube.

Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Update

It's been a full two years since the IRA was signed and we've seen little movement. Some IRA benefits were instant, like the solar and battery tax credit. But other benefits regarding electrical wiring, panels, EV chargers and electrical appliances, were left to the states to roll out. Finally, there is movement.


FIRST: Beware of scams. Applications are not yet open for the IRA residential electrification and efficiency rebate programs in California so if anyone offers to submit an application for this on your behalf, it is likely fraudulent.


GOOD NEWS: Starting this fall, the home electrification and appliance rebates phase 1 program – which is one of three IRA programs that the CA energy commission is implementing – will help qualified owners of California homes and multifamily buildings retrofit residences with energy-efficient appliances installed only by contractors enrolled in the TECH Clean California program.

You can learn more on the CA Energy commission website or our webpage linked below.

IRA products we can install
CA Energy Commission

SMUD's My Energy Optimizer Partner+ program is currently on pause

If you were thinking about taking advantage of the incredible battery program that SMUD recently started, unfortunately you will have to wait. The program is currently on pause for new enrollments and no timeline has been given when it will restart.


We understand that sometimes no matter how great a deal is, you just aren't ready for it. Or maybe analysis paralysis got the best of you. But when energy companies or product manufacturers announce new programs and offers like this SMUD program, it's best to jump on it. Sometimes they underestimate popularity and have to put the brakes on sooner than expected. If you're considering any home energy upgrades, let us help you do your research now, so you don't miss out on the next great deal. Visit our website for product info or have one of our knowledgeable installers out to see what will work best for you home.

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We'll Sponsor This Adoption!

Our rescue cats are an important part of our family and we wish to bless others with the same joy through an adoption sponsorship program at FieldHaven Feline Center.



Can't adopt but want to donate?

FieldHaven's Amazon Wishlist





Hi there!


We are Sir Johanas Malcovich and Sir Tackaray Binxx. We are a bonded pair so you get double the fun and we get to stay with our bestie.


We are about five years old. We are super friendly, laid back guys looking for a relaxing home.


We'd love to meet you to see if we're a fit. Check us out (or one of our many other friends up for adpotion) at Fieldhaven.

Please contact FieldHaven Feline Center to learn how to adopt this adorable feline.

2754 Ironwood Ln, Lincoln, CA (916) 434-6022


JUST

FOR

LAUGHS


Q: What did one electrical socket say to the other?



A: “Our connection is electrifying!”


How can we help?

Is Your Electric

Vehicle Charged?


Start each day with a full charge. Investing in an EV charger will save you time and give you a tax credit this year! Thinking of adding a second EV to your home? Let's talk about electric load and needing a second charger.




Main Electrical Panel


If tripping breakers are a common occurrence, your electrical panel could be damaged. Outdated or overwhelmed electrical panels are the main cause of electrical fires. Your panel may also need to be upgraded to install an EV charger. But no worries, we can help.



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Our customers are the most important thing about our business and we strive to prove that with every interaction. If you've experienced our excellent service, would you write a review? It really helps our future customers find us!

Thank you!



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