Thinking about installing solar panels or battery storage in California? While the federal residential solar tax credit has ended for new installations, certain state incentives and energy programs may still help eligible homeowners manage their solar costs.
Explore California’s solar rebates, battery storage incentives, property tax benefits and solar billing programs to understand what may apply to your home.
The 30% federal residential solar tax credit ended for new installations after December 31, 2025. Homeowners with qualifying solar or battery systems installed before the deadline may still claim the credit or carry forward unused amounts, depending on their tax situation.
Installing qualifying solar panels in California may increase your home’s value without increasing its assessed value solely because of the solar installation. This property tax benefit is scheduled to end for new qualifying installations after December 31, 2026, under current law.
California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) offers rebates for qualifying battery storage and paired solar-and-battery systems. Eligible homeowners may receive financial assistance with installation costs. Rebate amounts and availability depend on household eligibility, utility provider and available program funding.
California offers solar assistance for certain income-qualified homeowners. Programs such as DAC-SASH help eligible households in designated disadvantaged communities access rooftop solar at reduced or no upfront installation cost. Eligibility depends on household income, property location and program requirements.
PG&E customers may qualify for battery storage rebates through SGIP. Different incentive categories serve general residential customers and households meeting additional income or outage-related requirements. PG&E’s Residential Solar and Storage Equity rebate is currently closed to new reservations, with waitlist applications available through contractors.
California’s Solar Billing Plan allows eligible homeowners to earn electricity bill credits when their solar panels send excess energy to the grid. Credit values vary by time of day and utility rates. Adding battery storage may help homeowners use more of their solar energy.
California’s Solar Rights Act protects homeowners from unreasonable restrictions on installing solar energy systems. Homeowners associations may apply certain reasonable requirements, but they generally cannot prohibit qualifying rooftop solar installations. Homeowners should still check applicable permits, safety standards and property requirements before installation.
A solar easement is a legal agreement that protects access to sunlight across another property for a solar energy system. It can address shading from trees or buildings within an agreed area. These protections are not automatic and require a legally established easement.
Solar incentives can vary by location, utility provider, income and installation type. GT Power helps California homeowners explore solar panel and battery storage options based on their energy needs. Request a personalized solar estimate to understand your installation costs and potential savings.
Not sure which solar incentives apply to your home? GT Power helps California homeowners explore available rebates, understand installation costs, and find solar solutions that fit their energy needs and budget.
