Efficiency Maine pitches battery, off-peak programs to Ogunquit committee

A representative from Efficiency Maine gave an information session to the Ogunquit Sustainability Committee on September 24 about the state's small battery and off-peak electric vehicle charger programs. The presentation explained how leveling electric grid demand can lower rates and improve reliability, and how residents can get batteries installed and earn payments for sharing stored power during peak events. No votes were taken because too few members were present for formal business.

Key points

• Graham of Efficiency Maine described the small battery program, in which batteries automatically power a home during peak hours and can discharge to the grid during "super peak" events in exchange for annual payments.
• He said his own battery cost about $17,000 and is expected to pay for itself over 10 years through savings and rewards, with roughly 25 percent lower electric bills.
• The off-peak charger program, which pauses EV charging from 5 to 9 p.m., was described as the only one of its kind in the country and was invented by Efficiency Maine.
• A committee member asked whether participants must have all-electric homes; Graham said no, only grid connection and electricity use are required.
• Graham walked through the Efficiency Maine website, showing how to find nine certified battery installers within 50 miles of Ogunquit and how to view rebates in one click.
• No formal votes were held; the session was informational because not enough committee members were present to conduct business.

Next steps

• A committee member said he would follow up on the battery program for his own property, where a generator would be difficult to site.
• The committee plans to make "sustainable choices for seasonal homes" the topic for its October meeting, possibly as a panel covering energy and water, winterization, and responsible ownership.
• A member said he would work with David on planning the October topic and would share session links and information with the public.
• Election of officers and meeting minutes were postponed; the next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 22.

Read the full transcript