Built for NEM 3.0 — Battery + Solar

Beat California's New Net Billing Rules with Solar + Storage

Q: What is NEM 3.0 and how does it affect my solar payback?

NEM 3.0 (officially the Net Billing Tariff ) is California’s export rule effective April 2023. It pays roughly 75% less for energy your panels send to the grid than the old NEM 2.0 program did. Solar still pays back in 7–9 years for most California homes, and pairing solar with a battery can shorten that to 5–7 years. Read the full NEM 3.0 guide →

Q: How does the 30% federal tax credit apply to batteries?

The Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) covers 30% of the cost of solar panels AND batteries with at least 3 kWh of capacity. There is no cap. The credit applies to the year the system is placed in service. See all CA incentives →

Q: What's the SGIP rebate and do I qualify?

SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program) is a California rebate paid per-kWh of installed battery capacity. Equity and Equity Resiliency tiers (low-income or wildfire-risk areas) can cover most of the battery cost. We check your address against the program tier when we design your system.

Under NEM 3.0, exporting power earns ~75% less. We design battery-backed systems that store your solar for peak hours — protecting you from PG&E and SCE rate hikes and recovering payback in 6–9 years.

NEM 3.0 Battery Specialists

CA Licensed #1103557 • 25-Yr Warranty

Solar + Storage from $0 Down

Built for 2026 California Solar

Why Homeowners Choose Us Under NEM 3.0

California's solar rules changed. Our designs, equipment, and pricing are built for the new reality — not the old one.

NEM 3.0 Battery Design

Storage-first systems that bank daytime solar for 4–9 PM peak rates — when CA exports earn cents on the dollar.

30% Federal Tax Credit

The Residential Clean Energy Credit covers 30% of solar + battery cost through 2032 — locked in before you sign.

Rate-Hike Protection

PG&E and SCE rates climbed 12%+ in 2025. We size systems to offset 90–110% of your bill, not just yesterday's.

Tier-1 Equipment From Industry Leaders

Why Go Solar?

Save Money. Save the Planet.

Going solar isn't just good for the environment — it's one of the smartest financial decisions you can make as a California homeowner.

Lower Your Energy Bills

Solar can significantly reduce your monthly electricity costs. Actual savings vary by usage, utility rates, system size, financing, and roof conditions.

Go Green, Live Clean

Reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner California. Each solar home prevents tons of CO₂ emissions annually.

An Asset For Your Home

Solar can be an attractive feature for buyers and may add value at resale. Speak with a real-estate professional for local market data.

Energy Independence

Pair solar with battery storage and break free from grid outages and rate hikes. Power your home on your terms.

Savings Calculator

How Much Can You SaveWith Solar?

Enter your monthly electric bill to see your personalized solar savings estimate — it only takes 10 seconds.

Our Services

Complete Energy Solutions

From solar panels to landscaping, we provide everything you need for an energy-efficient home.

Solar Panel Installation

Premium solar panels professionally installed on your roof. We handle permits, design, and installation — start saving from day one.

Solar Battery Storage

Store excess energy for nighttime use or power outages. Pair with solar for complete energy independence and peace of mind.

HVAC Systems

Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems that pair perfectly with solar. Maximize comfort while minimizing energy costs year-round.

Energy-Efficient Landscaping

Strategic landscaping that reduces your home's energy needs. Shade trees, drought-resistant plants, and water-smart designs for California living.

How It Works

Solar Made Simple

Going solar shouldn't be complicated. Our streamlined process gets you up and running in three easy steps.

Get Your Estimate

Use our free online tool to get an instant, personalized solar estimate based on your home and energy usage.

Review Your Plan

Our experts design a custom solar solution, walk you through financing options, and answer all your questions.

We Handle the Rest

From permits to installation to activation — our certified team handles everything. You just start saving.

About Us

Bakersfield's Most Trusted Solar Company

Same Equipment. More Experience. Better Price.

Discount Solar Solutions helps Kern County homeowners switch to clean, affordable energy. We believe every family deserves access to solar — without the premium price tag.

Our locally-owned team handles everything from initial consultation to final activation. We partner with top-tier manufacturers and back every installation with a 25-year warranty, so you can enjoy decades of worry-free savings.

As a proud Bakersfield company, we understand the unique needs of Central Valley homeowners — from intense summer heat to the best roof angles for maximum sun exposure.

Years of Experience

25-Year

Equipment Warranty

License #1103557

Licensed California Contractor

Bakersfield

Bakersfield & Kern County

Our Work

Completed Solar Installations

Browse real projects we've completed for homeowners across Kern County.

Service Area

Serving Southern & Central California

Based in Bakersfield, we proudly serve homeowners across Kern County. Select projects available in Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties.

Counties We Serve

Based in Bakersfield, we proudly service homeowners throughout these regions.

Kern County

Ventura County

San Luis Obispo County

Kern County

Tulare County

Kings County

Fresno County

San Luis Obispo County

Santa Barbara County

Ventura County

Los Angeles County

San Bernardino County

Riverside County

San Diego County

Financing

Solar Has Never Been More Affordable

Don't let upfront costs hold you back. We offer multiple financing options including $0 down and 0% APR plans, so you can start saving on day one — often for less than your current electricity bill.

$0 down payment options

0% APR financing available

Federal tax credit (up to 30%)

Flexible payment plans

Quick & easy approval

Testimonials

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it — hear from the hundreds of families we've helped go solar.

"The whole install was easy from start to finish. The team was professional and the price was fair — exactly what was quoted with no surprises."

Bryce Underwood

"Walked me through every step, answered every question, and there were no hidden fees. Great service and quality work."

Robert Jimenez

"Quick turnaround and the financing options made it simple to get started. Happy I went with Discount Solar."

David Mangano

"Knowledgeable crew that handled the permitting and install smoothly. Couldn't be happier with the result."

Brayden Riley

Solar Education

Latest from Our Blog

Expert guides and local insights to help you make the best solar decision for your home.

Savings

Savings

California Solar Tax Credits & Incentives in 2026: What Homeowners Need to Know

March 15, 2026

Maintenance

Solar Panel Maintenance in the Central Valley: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

February 28, 2026

Solar Energy

How Do Solar Panels Work? A Beginner’s Guide to Solar Energy

February 10, 2026

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California 2026 Update

NEM 3.0 + Battery: Your Questions, Answered

Everything California homeowners are asking about net billing, payback math, and why battery storage now drives the savings.

What is NEM 3.0 and how does it affect my solar payback?

NEM 3.0 (officially the Net Billing Tariff) is California’s export rule effective April 2023. It pays roughly 75% less for energy your panels send to the grid than the old NEM 2.0 program did. Solar still pays back in 7–9 years for most California homes, and pairing solar with a battery can shorten that to 5–7 years. Read the full NEM 3.0 guide →

Is solar still worth it in California under net billing?

Yes. Even with reduced export credits, California’s high utility rates — PG&E and SCE both raised rates again in 2025 — mean solar offsets are still very valuable. The math now favors self-consumption: producing energy and using it on-site, often with a battery to time-shift production into peak evening hours.

Do I need a battery with solar in 2026?

For most NEM 3.0 customers, yes — a battery is what makes the financial case work. Without a battery, midday solar production is exported at low avoided-cost rates (often $0.05–0.08/kWh). With a battery, you store that production for evening peak hours when retail rates exceed $0.50/kWh in some PG&E plans. See our battery storage service →

How big a battery do I need (kWh sizing)?

Most California homes need 10–20 kWh of usable capacity to cover evening loads and partial overnight backup. Whole-home backup typically requires 20–30+ kWh. Battery sizing guide →

Will my battery keep my home running during a PSPS or blackout?

Yes, when properly configured. A battery with backup capability isolates from the grid during an outage and powers your designated backup loads. Most California homes run essentials — refrigerator, lights, internet, AC — for 12–24 hours on a single 13.5 kWh battery, longer when paired with daytime solar recharging.

How does the 30% federal tax credit apply to batteries?

The Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) covers 30% of the cost of solar panels AND batteries with at least 3 kWh of capacity. There is no cap. The credit applies to the year the system is placed in service. See all CA incentives →

What's the SGIP rebate and do I qualify?

SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program) is a California rebate paid per-kWh of installed battery capacity. Equity and Equity Resiliency tiers (low-income or wildfire-risk areas) can cover most of the battery cost. We check your address against the program tier when we design your system.

Can I add a battery to my existing solar system?

Yes. Most existing systems can be retrofitted with an AC-coupled battery (Tesla Powerwall 3, Enphase IQ Battery 5P, Franklin aPower). Important: adding a battery to an existing NEM 2.0 system does NOT trigger a switch to NEM 3.0 — your grandfathered status is preserved.

Want a NEM 3.0 design built for your home?

Free, no-pressure design with battery sizing and payback math.

Or call

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about going solar in Bakersfield & Kern County.

How much does solar installation cost?

The cost varies based on your home’s energy needs, roof size, and system design. With federal tax credits covering up to 30% and our 0% APR financing, most homeowners pay $0 down and save money from day one. Contact us for a free personalized estimate.

How long does installation take?

Most residential installations are completed in 1–3 days. The full process—from consultation to powering on—typically takes 4–8 weeks, including permits and utility approval.

Will solar panels work on my roof?

Solar works on most roofs! South-facing roofs with minimal shade produce the best results, but east- and west-facing roofs also perform well in California’s abundant sunshine. We’ll assess your roof during your free estimate.

What happens during a power outage?

Standard grid-tied systems shut off during outages for safety. However, pairing your panels with a solar battery keeps your home powered through blackouts—perfect for California’s extreme heat events.

How much can I save on my electricity bill?

Most Bakersfield homeowners save 50–90% on their electricity bills. With California’s high utility rates and NEM 3.0, solar remains one of the best investments you can make for your home.

What warranties do you offer?

We provide a 25-year warranty on panels and a 10-year workmanship warranty on installation. Our equipment partners also offer manufacturer warranties on inverters and batteries.

Do I need to clean or maintain my solar panels?

Solar panels require very little maintenance. An occasional rinse with water is usually enough. We also offer maintenance plans to keep your system running at peak efficiency.

What financing options are available?

We offer 0% APR financing with $0 down, making solar accessible to virtually every homeowner. We also accept cash purchases and can help you navigate federal and state incentives.