California's 2025-solar incentives. S.G.I.P. and rebates
Updated Oct 10, 2025: We do not advertise federal tax credits. See current SGIP battery incentives and $0-down PPA options below.
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PG&E and Southern California Edison customers — brace yourselves.
Even with the federal tax credit gone, California homeowners can still lower power bills and qualify for zero-down solar or battery programs. Find out what options you qualify for — it only takes 30 seconds.
Electric rates are climbing higher than California summer temps, and blackouts are still an unwelcome guest. For homeowners who thought the solar ship sailed with the federal solar tax credit, we’ve got good news: solar is still very much worth it in 2025.
While the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) window has officially closed, California still has powerful programs available. Between the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) for batteries and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) through partners like Everbright, Goodleap, and LightReach, homeowners can still save big — often with no upfront cost.
The Federal Tax Credit Has Ended — But the Savings Haven’t
Yes, it’s true. If you didn’t jump on the ITC, you missed the 30% federal solar tax credit. That doesn’t mean solar savings are gone. Far from it.
California continues to push renewable energy with state incentives and innovative financing options. In fact, for many homeowners, 2025 may be the most practical year yet to make the switch, thanks to battery rebates and flexible PPA programs.
Tax Credit Status (Updated Oct 10, 2025): Congress repealed the 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit for homeowner expenditures after Dec 31, 2025. Because installs can take up to ~60 days, we don’t use the former tax credit in any offers. We’ll keep this page updated if guidance changes. Congress.gov+2Forbes+2
Mini PPA Savings Calculator
Estimate savings vs. current utility rates. For a precise proposal, upload your bill.
Assumptions
- Utility blended rate & escalator shown above (edit via
data-util-rate/data-util-esc). - kWh/month ≈ bill ÷ utility rate. PPA payment = kWh × PPA rate.
- Lifetime uses simple annual compounding over
data-years(default 25). - Batteries add cost but improve NEM 3.0 outcomes (not modeled here).
Actual pricing varies by roof, usage, credit, and utility. Upload your bill for an exact design.
If you’re not ready for solar design, a Smart Bill Tune-Up will optimize your current bill (rate plan + TOU schedule) and include a short video walkthrough.
Link: /smart-bill-tune-up
California’s SGIP Battery Rebates
The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) is California’s way of rewarding homeowners who install solar batteries like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery.
Here’s why SGIP is a game-changer:
Big rebates: Depending on your eligibility, SGIP can shave thousands off your battery installation.
Wildfire & blackout protection: Batteries keep your lights on when the grid goes down.
Extra incentives: Higher rebates are available for households in wildfire-prone areas, low-income customers, and medical baseline residents who rely on power for health needs.
And the best part? Solar with Watts handles the paperwork. You focus on the savings — we’ll take care of the applications.
Tip: Before you decide on a battery, a Smart Bill Tune-Up can show your best non-solar savings path and preview how a battery would change your bill.
Link: /smart-bill-tune-up
SGIP: “Administered by PG&E, SCE, and CSE; incentives limited and subject to availability.” Link “SGIP handbook” to the CPUC PDF.
“SGIP provides upfront incentives for home batteries (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ, etc.). Equity/medical baseline/wildfire tiers may qualify for higher amounts; applications are handled by program administrators (PG&E, SCE, CSE).” California Public Utilities Commission
“We’ll help you find the best rebate or PPA program available in your ZIP code — free and no obligation.”
“Tired of rising PG&E and SCE rates? Lock in lower power costs with a PPA and SGIP savings.”
👉 Link to: Compare PPA Options Now
Solar PPAs: Affordable Solar Without the Upfront Cost
Let’s be real: buying a solar system outright can feel like buying a small yacht. Not everyone has that kind of cash lying around. Enter the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) — one of the most popular ways Californians are going solar in 2025.
Here’s how it works:
No upfront cost: Panels and batteries are installed with zero out-of-pocket expense.
You pay for power, not panels: Instead of buying the system, you simply purchase the solar energy it produces — at a rate that’s lower than PG&E or SCE.
Peace of mind: Maintenance, warranties, and performance guarantees are included.
Solar with Watts partners with the best in the business:
Everbright – flexible terms and seamless customer experience.
Goodleap – one of the most trusted solar financing names nationwide.
LightReach – innovative PPA programs designed for long-term affordability.
For many homeowners, a PPA is the fastest way to cut energy bills today without breaking the bank.
“With a solar PPA, you pay for power produced—often below your utility’s kWh rate—while the provider handles equipment and maintenance.” (Good bridge into your partner list.) solarwithwatts.com
“Our trusted financing partners — Everbright, Goodleap, LightReach, and EnFin — make going solar simple and affordable.”
Why PG&E and SCE Customers Benefit the Most
If you’re with PG&E or Southern California Edison, you’re no stranger to shocking bills. Rates have jumped year after year, and with demand only climbing, those hikes won’t stop anytime soon.
Here’s the kicker:
Both utilities charge the highest rates in California.
Both regions are vulnerable to planned blackouts and wildfire-related shutoffs.
Pairing solar + battery gives you energy independence, even when your neighborhood is in the dark.
PG&E/SCE bills are especially sensitive to the rate plan you’re on. Get a Smart Bill Tune-Up to find the cheapest plan and a personal off-peak routine.
Link: Basic and Priority
A solar PPA + SGIP battery rebate isn’t just about saving money — it’s about keeping control when the grid can’t deliver.
“While the neighborhood is in the dark, solar + battery keeps your family safe, comfortable, and powered.”
Why 2025 Is the Year to Act
Still on the fence? Here’s why waiting could cost you:
SGIP funding is limited — once the bucket runs dry, the rebates are gone.
Utility rates keep climbing — lock in a lower solar rate now and you’ll save more over time.
Energy independence matters more than ever — with batteries, your home becomes a mini power plant.
Solar in California isn’t just about saving money anymore — it’s about freedom, resilience, and protecting your home.
Mini PPA Savings Calculator
Estimate your savings vs. current utility rates. For an exact proposal, upload your bill.
Note: Batteries are recommended for outage backup and peak-rate protection and may add cost. Actual pricing varies by roof, usage, credit, and utility. Upload your bill for an exact design.
Final Thoughts
The federal tax credit may be gone, but solar is still a win for California homeowners in 2025. Between SGIP rebates and PPA options from Everbright, Goodleap, and LightReach, there are still big opportunities to lower your bills and keep your lights on.
“See if your home qualifies for no-cost solar installation or PPA savings.
🔹 Takes less than a minute
🔹 No credit impact
🔹 Expert local consultation
Not ready to design yet? Start with a Smart Bill Tune-Up—48–24 hr report, personal TOU schedule, and “found savings or it
