Solar Panels in California
California leads the nation in solar adoption. Get your instant quote and join 1.5+ million homeowners saving with solar.
Updated February 2026
Why Solar Makes Sense in California
Abundant Sunshine
California averages 260-300 sunny days per year, making it one of the best states for solar energy production. Your panels will generate maximum power year-round.
High Electricity Rates
With average rates of $0.28-$0.35/kWh (among the highest in the nation), solar savings are substantial. Lock in lower energy costs for 25+ years.
California State Incentives
While federal incentives have been reduced in 2026, California maintains strong state programs including property tax exemption, SGIP battery rebates, and NEM 3.0 credits for maximum savings on your solar investment.
Environmental Impact
Help California reach its goal of 100% clean energy by 2045. The average home solar system offsets 3-4 tons of CO2 annually.
California Solar Incentives & Rebates
Maximize your savings with these California-specific programs
Federal Incentive Update (2026)
State programs activeFederal solar tax credit policies have changed in 2026. However, California state programs remain extremely strong. Act now to take advantage of available state-level savings before they decrease.
Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0)
Varies by utilitySell excess solar energy back to the grid. While NEM 3.0 reduced rates compared to previous versions, you still get credit for surplus production with your utility (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E).
Property Tax Exemption (Active)
100% exemptionSolar installations are 100% exempt from property tax assessment in California, protecting your investment and home value.
SGIP Battery Incentive (Active)
Up to $1,000/kWhSelf-Generation Incentive Program offers rebates for battery storage systems. Equity and equity-resiliency customers can receive up to $1,000/kWh.
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California Solar FAQ
Common questions about going solar in California
How much do solar panels cost in California in 2026?
The average residential solar installation in California costs $15,000 - $25,000 before incentives for a 6-10 kW system. Costs vary by region — Los Angeles averages $18,000-$28,000, while the Central Valley tends to be lower. California's property tax exemption and SGIP battery rebates help reduce net costs.
Is solar still worth it in California with NEM 3.0?
Yes. While NEM 3.0 reduced export credit rates for PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E customers, solar still provides significant savings through self-consumption and time-of-use optimization. Municipal utility customers (LADWP, GWP, BWP, PWP) are not affected by NEM 3.0. Adding battery storage maximizes value under the new policy.
What solar incentives are available in California?
California offers property tax exemption for solar installations, SGIP battery storage rebates (up to $1,000/kWh for equity customers), and NEM 3.0 net billing credits. Municipal utilities like LADWP, GWP, BWP, and PWP offer their own rebate programs. Federal incentive guidelines changed in 2026 — check current eligibility.
Which California utility is best for solar?
Municipal utilities like LADWP (Los Angeles), GWP (Glendale), BWP (Burbank), and PWP (Pasadena) are often best for solar because they offer favorable net metering independent of NEM 3.0. Among IOUs, customers with high electricity usage on SCE, PG&E, or SDG&E still see strong savings.
How long does solar installation take in California?
Most California solar installations take 4-8 weeks from contract to activation. This includes system design (1-2 days), permitting (1-3 weeks depending on city), physical installation (1-3 days), and utility interconnection (2-4 weeks). Some cities like Glendale have adopted streamlined permitting for faster approvals.
Do I need a battery with solar panels in California?
Batteries are increasingly important in California, especially for NEM 3.0 customers on PG&E, SCE, or SDG&E. Batteries store excess daytime solar for evening use when grid rates are highest, and provide backup during PSPS events and outages. California's SGIP program offers rebates to reduce battery costs.
Explore California Solar Resources
Solar in Los Angeles
LADWP rates & LA incentives
Solar in Glendale
GWP rates & local incentives
Solar in Burbank
BWP programs & savings
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California Solar Cost
Pricing benchmarks & $/W ranges
NEM 3.0 Explained
Net metering policy & impact
LADWP Solar Guide
Utility rates & programs
Solar FAQ
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