Resources
Straight answers about California solar in 2026
No stale tax-credit claims, no jargon. Just current, accurate guides written to help you decide — and a quick link to the FAQ.
Guides
The essentials
Is Solar Worth It in California in 2026?
Yes — solar still pencils for most California homes in 2026, but only when designed for NEM 3.0 and paired with a battery. Here's the honest math.
Updated June 10, 2026 · 7 minRead guide
NEM 3.0 Explained for California Homeowners
NEM 3.0 cut what California utilities pay for exported solar by roughly 75%. Here's what that means for your savings — and how a battery fixes the math.
Updated May 15, 2026 · 5 minRead guide
SCE vs SDG&E vs PG&E Solar Net Billing
A high-level comparison of how California's three big investor-owned utilities structure rates, time-of-use peaks, and NEM 3.0 net billing for solar customers.
Updated June 7, 2026 · 6 minRead guide
SGIP Battery Rebate in California (2026)
An honest look at California's SGIP battery rebate in 2026 — the general budgets largely closed in 2025, what limited pathways remain, and who qualifies.
Updated June 6, 2026 · 6 minRead guide
Solar Panel Cost by System Size (CA 2026)
What a 6 kW, 8 kW, 10 kW, or 13 kW solar system tends to cost in California — broken down by size tier, as estimates, with what moves the number.
Updated June 10, 2026 · 7 minRead guideSolar Panel Cost in Orange County (2026)
What solar panels cost in Orange County in 2026, by system size — with cited local market data, SCE time-of-use math, and the cost drivers specific to OC homes.
Updated June 10, 2026 · 7 minRead guideSolar Payback Period in California (2026)
How long a California solar-plus-battery system takes to pay for itself in 2026 — typically about 7–9 years — and what speeds payback up or slows it down.
Updated June 4, 2026 · 6 minRead guideSolar PPA vs Prepaid vs Cash in California
PPA, prepaid, or cash for California solar? A neutral 2026 comparison of ownership, escalators, transferability, and credit — now that the §25D credit is gone.
Updated June 10, 2026 · 8 minRead guideTop 6 Reasons to Get Solar in 2026
Is 2026 the right time to go solar? Learn how solar reduces utility bills, increases home value, and gives you energy independence. Read the top 6 reasons.
Updated June 25, 2026 · 6 minRead guideFrom the blog
More reading
How to Properly Read Your Utility Bill (SCE, SDG&E, and LADWP Explained)
For many Southern California homeowners, the monthly electric bill is a mystery of confusing charges and rate structures. This post walks through each section of bills from SCE, SDG&E, and LADWP so you can understand where your money goes and uncover opportunities to save.
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How Long Does a Solar System Last?
Modern solar equipment is incredibly durable, with quality panels expected to operate for 30 years or more. However, different components age differently, requiring understanding of how each part holds up over time.
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Everything About Solar Panel Durability
Modern solar panels are engineered to last 25-30 years with minimal degradation. Understanding durability factors is essential for Southern California homeowners considering solar investments.
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What the Big Beautiful Bill Means for the 30% Solar Tax Credit
President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill introduces significant changes to residential solar incentives, with the 30% federal tax credit expiring on December 31, 2025, requiring immediate action for homeowners.
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The Top 3 Ways to Go Solar: PPA vs Prepaid PPA vs Cash
When you decide to go solar, your first major decision isn't about panels or batteries — it's about how you'll pay. This post breaks down the top three financing paths: PPA, Prepaid PPA, and Cash Purchase, with the pros, cons, and ideal homeowner for each.
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How Solar Batteries can help you through NEM 3.0
With NEM 3.0 reducing the rates paid for solar energy sold back to the grid, adding a battery to your solar system is the best way to preserve your savings and maximize the value of your solar investment.
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Earth Day 2025: Go Green with Solar Power
Earth Day 2025 is here, and it's more than just a symbolic holiday—it's a powerful reminder that our choices matter, especially when it comes to how we power our homes. It's a chance to take real action for our planet.
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Debunking Common Solar Myths
Many people remain hesitant to embrace energy independence, likely due to misinformation about solar energy. Let's unwrap a few of those myths and get you more comfortable with the idea of saying 'Lights out' to your electric company.
Read moreSave Money and the Planet: A Practical Guide to Going Solar
Solar energy sits right at the intersection of sustainability and savings, offering one of the few home upgrades that delivers a significant environmental impact with a clear financial return.
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From Ancient Sun Worship to High-Tech Panels: The Fascinating History of Solar Energy
Solar energy may feel like a modern marvel, but its story began thousands of years ago. From ancient architecture designed around sunlight to today's advanced solar panels and smart energy systems, solar energy has evolved through centuries of innovation, setbacks, and dramatic breakthroughs.
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What Is the OC Solar Energy Agreement?
The OC Solar Energy Agreement is a 25-year performance-based arrangement where OC Solar designs, installs, and maintains a custom solar and battery system for your home with zero upfront investment.
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An Overview of 2024 Incentives for Going Solar in California
California is among the states most committed to clean energy, with an ultimate plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. Here's an overview of the national, state, and local incentives available to help residents make the switch to solar.
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