What solar incentives & rebates are available in Ontario, CA?

California programs, export credits, and battery incentives can still shape payback

Last updated: July 2025

Update (January 2026): The 30% federal residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired on December 31, 2025. California state programs like the property-tax exclusion, NEM 3.0, and SGIP may still be available. Check the incentives finder for current programs.

Summary: The federal residential Clean Energy Credit expired for new installations after December 31, 2025, but Ontario, California homeowners may still benefit from California programs like the property-tax exclusion, NEM 3.0 export credits, targeted utility rebates, and SGIP battery incentives. With today's electric rates, a typical household can save around $1,300 per year and roughly $25,000 over 20 years. Use our solar payback calculator to see how these incentives impact your specific project timeline.

Expired

Federal residential credit

for 2026 installs

$1,300+

Typical annual bill savings

usage dependent

$25k

Long-term savings

~20 years

Federal incentive update

The federal residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) expired for new residential systems placed in service after December 31, 2025. If your system was placed in service before that date, consult a tax professional and the IRS program page for eligibility. See IRS program details. For a current overview of state and local programs across the country, check out our 2026 solar incentives guide.

California & local programs

Property-tax exclusion: Added value from solar isn't taxed for property purposes.
Net metering (NEM 3.0): Earn export credits based on time-of-use.
Utility & CCA rebates: Periodic, provider-specific rebates.
SGIP battery incentives: Rebates for qualifying storage systems.
SOMAH (multifamily): Incentives for affordable multifamily properties.

Browse all available programs on our solar incentives page, or estimate your total savings with our 2025 solar savings calculator.

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FAQ

Can I claim the federal credit if I lease my solar panels?

For new residential installations in 2026, Section 25D is no longer available. For older eligible systems, the residential credit applied only to the system owner. With a lease or PPA, the third-party owner may have claimed the applicable commercial credit.

How does net metering work under NEM 3.0?

You earn export credits based on time-of-use rates. Credits roll over monthly and can be settled annually; export values vary by hour/season. Calculate your potential export credits.

Do incentives change during the year?

Yes. Local rebates open/close and funding caps can be hit quickly. That's why monitoring programs regularly is important.