California Net Metering Rates 2026
California solar exports are credited under modified net metering, worth roughly ~70–90% of retailof the retail electricity rate. Here's exactly how it works, which utilities offer it, and what it means for your payback.
How Net Metering Works in California
When your panels produce more electricity than your home is using, the surplus flows back onto the grid and your meter records the export. California utilities credit those exported kilowatt-hours at retail rate minus a grid-access or non-bypassable charge. You draw that credit back down at night or on cloudy days, so you only pay for your net consumption across the billing cycle.
Because California mandates net metering, a correctly sized system can push net annual electricity costs close to zero for many CA homeowners.
What It's Worth: ~70–90% of retail of Retail
The single biggest driver of solar payback is how much your utility pays for exported energy. California's modified structure keeps most of the retail value but subtracts a grid-access or non-bypassable charge, so model your specific utility's deductions.
The average CA homeowner reaches payback in 7.2 years and nets $58,900 over 25 years with these rules in effect.
California Utilities Offering Net Metering
The major utilities operating in California are PG&E, SCE, SDG&E. Net metering terms — true-up dates, monthly fees, and credit carryover — vary by provider, so confirm the current tariff with your specific utility before signing an installation contract.
California Net Metering FAQ
What will net metering save you in California?
Our calculator factors California's modified net metering into your payback and 25-year savings — using your actual electric bill.