Complete guide to the $9,000 battery incentive
As of October 2025 • Ongoing program availability
Duke Energy's incentive program that pays homeowners $9,000 to install battery backup systems. In exchange, Duke can use a portion of your battery during peak demand periods—but you still keep backup power for outages.
Paid directly to you at installation completion
Commitment period for grid services participation
Full access to your battery during outages
What you need to qualify
Understanding grid services and backup power
Your battery charges from the grid during off-peak hours (typically overnight)
During peak demand (usually 4-8 PM), Duke may discharge your battery to support the grid
Duke always leaves enough capacity for your backup power needs
When grid power fails, your battery instantly powers your home
During outages, you have complete control of your battery
Full battery capacity available for backup power
Different tools for different needs — let's help you decide
| Factor | Battery Backup | Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Level | ✓ Silent operation | ✗ 60-75 dB (like a vacuum) |
| Maintenance | ✓ Zero maintenance | ✗ Annual service ($200-400/yr) |
| Fuel Requirements | ✓ No fuel needed | ✗ Propane/natural gas required |
| Indoor Air Quality | ✓ No emissions | ✗ Outdoor exhaust required |
| Installation Impact | ✓ Wall-mount, minimal footprint | ✗ Concrete pad, gas lines, permits |
| Cost Factor | Battery Backup | Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | △ $16,000-18,000 (before incentive) | ✓ $8,000-15,000 installed |
| After Incentives | ✓ $7,000-9,000 (with Duke $9k) | △ Same (no Duke incentive) |
| 10-Year Operating Cost | ✓ ~$200 (electricity only) | ✗ $2,000-4,000 (maintenance + fuel) |
| Total 10-Year Cost | ✓ $7,200-9,200 | △ $10,000-19,000 |
Bottom Line: With Duke's $9,000 incentive, batteries cost significantly less over 10 years—even factoring in lower upfront generator costs.
| Performance Factor | Battery Backup | Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Backup Duration | △ 8-12 hours typical | ✓ Unlimited (with fuel) |
| Power Capacity | △ 5-10 kW continuous | ✓ 15-25 kW typical |
| Switchover Speed | ✓ Instant (uninterrupted) | △ 10-30 seconds delay |
| Whole-Home Coverage | △ Critical circuits only | ✓ Full home possible |
💡 Pro Tip: Batteries work for 85% of NC homeowners who want backup without the hassle. If most outages in your area are under 12 hours, battery is your best bet.
⚠️ Reality Check: Generators are the right tool for extended outages and high-demand homes. Just budget for annual maintenance ($200-400) and noise near your outdoor unit.
Let's run the numbers for your specific home and outage patterns
No pressure, just honest math and real-world advice
From application to activation
Submit PowerPair application to Duke Energy
1-2 weeks for approval
Professional battery system installation
1-2 days typical
Local permits and Duke interconnection
2-4 weeks typical
System goes live, incentive paid
Payment within 30 days
Total Timeline: Typically 6-10 weeks from application to payment
Admiral Energy manages the entire process for you
Real numbers for typical installations
Backup Runtime: 12-18 hours for essential circuits
Grid Events: ~50 per year, 2-4 hours each
Backup Runtime: 1-2 days for most of home
Grid Events: ~50 per year, 2-4 hours each
*Actual costs vary by installation complexity, electrical upgrades needed, and local permits
PowerPair pros and cons
For most homeowners, PowerPair is a good deal. But we'll run the numbers for your specific situation.
Let's run the numbers and see if PowerPair makes sense for your home.