Adam-GlickTexas Homeowners: Wanna Get Paid to Help the Grid? Let’s Talk Octopus VPP + Enphase Battery Storage

By Adam Glick, Solar Sherpa, NATiVE Solar

Texas homeowners, listen up—there’s a new way to lower your electricity bills *and* help keep the Texas grid stable, and it’s all thanks to a fresh partnership between Octopus Energy and Enphase Energy. If you already have an Enphase battery (or you’re thinking about adding one), this is one program you’ll want to pay attention to.

What Is GridBoost?

GridBoost is a new virtual power plant (VPP) program from Octopus Energy that allows your excess stored battery power to be exported when it’s most needed to stabilize the Texas grid – typically in the early evening.  Because the value of electricity is highest during this time period, you can achieve a much a better ROI on your battery investment by allowing your stored energy to be injected back into the grid.  (*But don’t worry! They will always leave some capacity in your batteries in case of an overnight outage!) Yep, your home battery just became a money-maker.

Here’s the breakdown:

  • $40/month in bill credits: Just for letting Octopus manage your Enphase battery and export stored energy during peak grid demand.
  • Bonus buyback credits: Earn even more ($200–$1,000+/year) when you export excess solar energy at real-time market rates—no caps, no nonsense.
  • Full control + backup protection: Octopus never drains your battery below 20%, so backup power is always there if the grid goes down.

What Do You Need to Join?

Enrolling in GridBoost is super simple. Here’s what you need:

  • An Enphase IQ Battery (IQ 10 or similar setup).
  • To be a customer of Octopus Energy.
  • A willingness to let Octopus discharge your battery once daily based on grid conditions.

Don’t have solar? No problem. There’s a version of this for battery-only customers too, called Intelligent Octopus for Home Batteries—which gives you 50% off your electricity rate just for letting Octopus use your stored energy during peak hours.

Why This Matters for Texans

We all know the Texas grid has had its challenges (looking at you, Winter 2021). Programs like GridBoost help make the grid more reliable without building more expensive fossil fuel peaker plants. Instead, we use smart, clean tech—like your battery—to share energy during crunch time.

Even better, it’s not charity. You’re getting paid to participate. That means faster ROI on your solar + battery investment and long-term savings, all while making the grid more resilient.

Should You Join GridBoost?

If you already have Enphase gear, this is a no-brainer. You’re getting consistent monthly credits, plus real-time earnings from excess solar. And if you’re considering adding solar + storage, this new revenue stream makes the investment even sweeter.

Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered. As longtime solar pros in Texas, we’ll help you design the right system, get it installed, and walk you through enrolling in GridBoost so you can start earning from day one.

Why Choose NATiVE Solar?

NATiVE Solar is proud to be a member of AMICUS Solar Cooperative—a network of ethical and expert solar providers committed to industry best practices.

Since 2007, NATiVE Solar has worked across Texas, building a reputation based on trust, transparency, and top-notch workmanship. We stand by our work and our word—every time.

Call us today or reach out online to find out how to join GridBoost and start getting paid to power the grid!