Enphase Energy, Inc., a leading global energy technology company specializing in microinverter-based solar and battery systems, has reported a surge in deployments of its solution for expanding legacy net energy metering (NEM) solar systems in California. As utilities simplify approval processes, homeowners can now enhance their systems while retaining their existing NEM status, utilizing Enphase® Energy System™ configurations with IQ® Microinverters, IQ® Batteries, and Enphase Power Control.
Last year, Enphase announced its solution for expanding legacy NEM systems in California. Since then, the application process for installing these systems with the top utilities in California has improved to support a more streamlined process. Hundreds of systems have been approved already, with many more expected to be approved soon.
As home and transportation electrification increases, many California solar homeowners are using more energy than they generate. Previously, those on legacy NEM 1.0 and 2.0 programs faced restrictions on system expansion without switching to NEM 3.0, which has lower export rates. Now, Enphase’s new system configurations and power control features allow homeowners to upgrade while preserving legacy NEM benefits. The existing system can still export to the grid, while the new addition is designed solely for household consumption. This helps homeowners manage rising energy demands, reduce electricity costs, and opens new opportunities for installers. Installers should consult their local California utility regarding any potential fees for implementing these upgrades. Watch an explainer video from the Enphase Training Team .
California utilities have streamlined the approval process for expanding legacy solar systems, enabling companies to serve customers more efficiently and effectively. Mike Teresso, president of Baker Electric Home Energy, emphasized that Enphase’s solution is helping meet growing energy demands while providing homeowners with the flexibility needed for the future.
John Almond, CEO of Semper Solaris, acknowledged the benefits of this simplified approval process, noting that customers can now expand their solar and storage systems without losing the value of their existing installations. He highlighted this development as a significant advantage for homeowners and an opportunity for installers to assist more people in managing their energy needs.
Ed Murray, president of Aztec Solar, pointed out that expanding solar systems under legacy Net Energy Metering (NEM) policies had previously been challenging. With the updated application process and Enphase’s innovative solution, designing cost-effective systems that enhance energy independence has become easier. He described this as a major step forward for California’s solar industry.
In addition, Solargraf®, Enphase’s design and proposal software platform, can help installers seamlessly design and generate proposals for expanded legacy NEM systems. For new systems, the platform can also optimize solar and battery projects to help enable maximum savings under the new California solar rules.
Ken Fong, senior vice president at Enphase Energy, emphasized the importance of streamlined utility approvals for expanding clean energy systems. He highlighted that Enphase’s software and hardware solutions help homeowners maximize solar and battery value while enabling installers to grow their businesses. Fong reaffirmed Enphase’s commitment to supporting both groups in leveraging these opportunities.
