FranklinWH Joins Alliant Energy's Smart Hours Program in Iowa

SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 14, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Alliant Energy has launched a new program in Iowa that rewards customers for supporting the electric grid. The initiative, called Alliant Energy® Smart Hours, is now open to Alliant Energy customers in Iowa who own FranklinWH Systems. This program aims to strengthen the grid by leveraging the energy storage capabilities of these systems.

Through the Smart Hours program, customers can earn up to $1,500 in enrollment incentives, plus ongoing payments. The one-time enrollment incentive is $100 per kilowatt-hour of battery capacity, with a maximum of $1,500 for a FranklinWH System. Participants also receive annual performance payments of $100 for every average kilowatt their system discharges when called upon to support the grid.

The FranklinWH System automatically dispatches stored energy to the homes of Alliant Energy customers during periods of peak electricity demand. Customers do not need to take any action when the utility calls on their battery. They can also customize how much stored energy they make available, ensuring they maintain needed backup power for their home.

FranklinWH has partnered with Derapi to streamline enrollment, helping FranklinWH systems connect to Smart Hours.

Iowa gets a larger share of its electricity from wind than any other state, with wind supplying 63 percent of its electricity generation, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Smart Hours brings the number of virtual power plants (VPPs) FranklinWH participates in to more than 30 nationwide.

FranklinWH Energy Storage Inc. is a global leader in whole-home energy management and battery storage, with systems that integrate solar, generator, and grid power. Its systems are engineered and manufactured in Santa Clara, California, home to the company's U.S. Innovation Center, which leads product design, grid controls, testing, and certification. FranklinWH systems participate in more than 30 utility-led virtual power plant (VPP) programs across the U.S., allowing homeowners to support the grid at peak times, receive program payments, and retain backup power.

The program is designed to help Alliant Energy manage peak demand and improve grid reliability. By participating, customers can help reduce strain on the grid during high-demand periods, potentially leading to more stable and efficient energy distribution. The initiative also aligns with Alliant Energy's broader goals of enhancing grid resilience and integrating more renewable energy sources into the grid.

The program is open to Alliant Energy customers in Iowa who own FranklinWH Systems. Interested customers can enroll through the program's streamlined process, facilitated by Derapi. The program is expected to benefit both customers and the grid, offering financial incentives while contributing to a more sustainable and reliable energy infrastructure.

FranklinWH Energy Storage Inc. continues to expand its participation in virtual power plants, with Smart Hours being the latest addition to its portfolio. The company's commitment to innovation and customer engagement is evident in its ongoing efforts to integrate renewable energy sources and enhance grid reliability.