Solar Incentives in California (2026)
California residents installing rooftop solar can combine the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with a state-specific credit (None (previous rebate programs ended)). Net-metering rules and property/sales tax exemptions are the other big levers. California avg installed cost: $3.20/watt (state avg, 2026). Federal ITC value: $5,760. Additional state incentives (below) may reduce net cost further. Every U.S. state gets the 30% federal ITC. It applies to the gross install cost, including panels, inverters, labor, and permit fees. For a 6.0 kW system in California at $3.20/watt, that’s a credit of $5,760 against your federal income tax. The credit is refundable-carryforward — unused portions roll to future tax years. Valid through 2032. None (previous rebate programs ended) This stacks on top of the federal credit. Consult a local CPA to confirm current-year limits. NEM 3.0 — export credit ~25% of retail (vs 100% under NEM 2.0) Net metering determines how much you’re credited for excess solar energy exported to the grid. "1:1" or "full retail" is the best — you get the same rate you pay. "Avoided cost" or "net billing" pays substantially less (often 25-50% of retail). SGIP battery storage rebate ($150-$1,000/kWh) makes solar+battery competitive. DAC-SASH for low-income. Utility rebates change frequently. Verify current terms with your specific utility (not just "the state") before signing an installer contract. A typical 6.0 kW rooftop system in California costs about $19,200 gross → $13,440 after the federal ITC. With California’s electricity rate of 35.25¢/kWh, this system saves about $3,372/year — paying back in 4.0 years on the federal credit alone. Add the state-level items above and the net cost drops further. Affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Yes — the federal ITC and California’s state credit stack independently. However, some utility rebates reduce the "cost basis" the federal ITC applies to. Consult a CPA. The ITC reduces your federal income-tax liability for the year the system is placed in service (i.e., commissioned and producing power). If your tax owed is less than the credit, unused portions roll forward. You do not receive a check. Rebates from utilities are generally not taxable (they reduce your cost basis). Federal tax credits are not income. Some state credits may be treated differently — check your state Department of Revenue.1. Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
2. State income-tax credit
3. Net metering rules in California
4. Property & sales tax exemptions
5. Utility rebates & notes
Bottom line for California
Before you sign an installer contract
FAQ
Can I combine federal ITC and California’s state incentives?
When do I get the federal ITC money?
Do rebates and credits get taxed?