California Solar Installation: Savings, Storage & NEM 3.0 Explained

California leads the nation in solar adoption with abundant sunshine, strong incentives, and high electricity rates that make going solar one of the best investments homeowners can make.

$0.32/kWh

Avg. Electric Rate

$230

Avg. Monthly Bill

5.5–6.5 peak sun hrs/day

Solar Potential

6–9 years (solar + battery)

Payback Period

Why Go Solar in California in 2026

California leads the nation in solar adoption with abundant sunshine, strong incentives, and high electricity rates that make going solar one of the best investments homeowners can make.

Key Advantages

30% Federal Solar Tax Credit

SGIP battery storage rebates

Property tax exclusion for solar

NEM 3.0 makes storage essential

Highest electricity rates in the continental US

5.5+ peak sun hours statewide

Incentives & Net Metering in California

Net Metering / Export Rules

NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) — export credits much lower than retail; battery storage essential

Key Incentives

Federal Solar Tax Credit (30%), SGIP storage rebate, property tax exclusion

Learn More

Utility Companies in California

We work with all major utilities across California for seamless interconnection.

PG&E Solar

16 million customers · Northern and Central California

NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) — export credits at avoided cost, much lower than retail

SCE Solar

15 million customers · Southern California (Inland Empire, Orange County, desert)

NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff)

SDG&E Solar

3.7 million customers · San Diego County

NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff)

Cities We Serve in California

Local solar installation across 31+ California communities.

Solar Services in California

Complete solar solutions from installation to ongoing maintenance.

Solar Installation in California

Complete turnkey solar installation from design to activation. We handle engineering, permitting, equipment procurement, installation, inspection, and utility interconnection across California, Hawaii, and Illinois.

Residential Solar in California

Home solar systems designed for maximum savings and energy independence. From roof assessment to HOA approval to activation, we make going solar simple for homeowners.

Commercial Solar in California

Solar for businesses, schools, churches, and nonprofits. Reduce demand charges, lock in energy costs, and leverage commercial ITC and MACRS depreciation for maximum ROI.

Battery Storage in California

Battery storage is essential under NEM 3.0 in California and Smart Export in Hawaii. We install Tesla Powerwall, Enphase batteries, and other leading brands with backup circuit design tailored to your needs.

Solar Repair in California

Solar system not producing? Inverter errors? Monitoring down? Our certified technicians diagnose and repair all solar system issues across all brands and system types.

Solar Maintenance in California

Keep your solar system producing at peak efficiency with our maintenance plans. Regular cleaning, inspections, and monitoring ensure maximum savings over your system 25+ year lifespan.

California Solar FAQs

Is solar still worth it in California under NEM 3.0?

Yes — but the strategy has shifted. Under NEM 3.0, export credits are much lower than retail rates, so the key is maximizing self-consumption and adding battery storage. A properly sized solar+storage system can still eliminate most of your bill and pay back in 6–9 years.

Do I need a battery with solar in California?

For new interconnections under NEM 3.0 with PG&E, SCE, or SDG&E, a battery is strongly recommended. Storage lets you use your solar energy in the evening instead of exporting it at low rates. SGIP rebates can offset 10–20% of battery costs.

What is SGIP and do I qualify?

The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides rebates for battery storage. Equity tier residents may qualify for higher rebates. Availability varies by utility territory and funding.

Can HOAs block solar in California?

No. Under California Civil Code 714, HOAs cannot unreasonably restrict solar installations. They may set reasonable aesthetic guidelines but cannot prohibit solar.

How much does a 6-8 kW system cost in California?

A 6-8 kW residential system typically costs $15,000-$25,000 before the 30% federal tax credit. After incentives, net cost is $10,500-$17,500. Battery storage adds $8,000-$15,000.

What happens during PSPS outages with solar only?

Grid-tied solar without battery storage shuts off during outages for safety. With a battery backup system, your solar continues powering your home during PSPS events.

Get Your Free California Solar Quote

Local solar experts serving 31+ cities across California. Free consultation, custom design, and transparent pricing.

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Or call us at (800) 555-SOLAR