Solar Panel Cost in California (2026)
In California, home solar installs for roughly $3.15/watt in 2026. A typical 8 kW system runs about $25,200, with an estimated payback near 6.2 years at the state's ~33¢/kWh electricity rate.
| System size | Est. cost | Est. annual savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $18,900 | $3,100/yr | 6.2 yrs |
| 8 kW | $25,200 | $4,100/yr | 6.2 yrs |
| 11 kW | $34,700 | $5,600/yr | 6.2 yrs |
Estimates use ~$3.15/watt installed and California's ~33¢/kWh rate. Before any state/local incentives.
California solar notes
California's NEM 3.0 (2023) cut solar export credits by roughly 75%, making batteries near-essential; the SGIP rebate still offsets storage costs and high rates keep savings large.
Heads up: the 30% federal tax credit for purchased home solar ended Dec 31, 2025. Leased/PPA systems may still qualify through 2027, and California may offer its own incentives — check locally.
Get a personalized estimate for your bill
Open the solar calculator →