Solar Incentives in Bakersfield, CA
Complete guide to solar tax credits, rebates, and incentive programs available to Bakersfield homeowners in 2026.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost
Bakersfield homeowners can deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from their federal taxes. This applies to all qualified solar installations in Bakersfield, CA.
California State Solar Incentives for Bakersfield Homeowners
Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)
RebateProvides rebates for installing battery storage systems paired with solar, especially for customers in fire-prone areas.
Net Billing (NEM 3.0)
Net MeteringCalifornia's updated net billing program provides credits for solar energy exported to the grid, with rates based on time of export.
Property Tax Exclusion
Property TaxSolar energy systems are excluded from property tax reassessment through 2025, meaning your property taxes won't increase due to solar.
DAC-SASH Program
RebateThe Disadvantaged Communities Single-Family Solar Homes program provides free solar installations to qualifying low-income homeowners.
PACE Financing
LoanProperty Assessed Clean Energy financing allows homeowners to finance solar through their property tax bills.
Net Metering in Bakersfield, CA
California transitioned to NEM 3.0 (Net Billing) in April 2023. Solar customers receive export credits based on the time of day energy is sent to the grid, with battery storage strongly recommended to maximize savings.
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) in Bakersfield
California does not have a traditional SREC market. Instead, the state uses its Renewables Portfolio Standard and net billing to incentivize solar adoption.
Tax Exemptions in Bakersfield
How to Claim Solar Incentives in Bakersfield
- Install your solar system: Work with a qualified Bakersfield solar installer to design and install your system.
- Claim the federal ITC: File IRS Form 5695 with your federal tax return to claim the 30% tax credit.
- Apply for state programs: Contact your California energy office or local Bakersfield utility to apply for available incentives.
- Set up net metering: Contact your utility in Bakersfield to set up net metering and start earning credits.
- Keep records: Save all receipts, contracts, and permits for tax filing and warranty purposes.
Solar Incentives FAQ - Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, plus 5 state-level incentive programs, net metering. These incentives can reduce your total solar cost by 30-50%.
The 30% federal tax credit alone can save Bakersfield homeowners approximately $5.0k on a typical system. Combined with California state programs, total savings over 25 years can reach $50k or more.
California transitioned to NEM 3.0 (Net Billing) in April 2023. Solar customers receive export credits based on the time of day energy is sent to the grid, with battery storage strongly recommended to maximize savings.
To claim the 30% federal ITC, Bakersfield homeowners need to file IRS Form 5695 with their annual tax return. The credit applies to the full cost of your solar system including equipment and installation. You must own the system (not lease it) to claim the credit.
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