A Time-Sensitive Guide to Incentives, Tax Credits, and How to Claim Them Before They Disappear
What Does “Free” Solar Really Mean?
No, the government is not handing out free solar panels like water bottles at a marathon. But in the right circumstances, especially in California, homeowners can access deep subsidies and incentives that make going solar feel practically free.
With the right combination of programs, you may be able to cut your upfront costs to zero or close to it. However, these opportunities are limited, complex, and quickly changing in 2025. If you are thinking about solar, now is the time to act.
The Federal Solar Tax Credit in 2025
The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) still offers a 30 percent credit on the full cost of your solar system in 2025. This includes equipment, installation, and even battery storage.
But this window is closing.
- The U.S. Senate has recently upheld a full phaseout of clean energy tax credits by 2028
- The tax credit is expected to drop to 22 percent in 2026, then to 10 percent in 2027, and vanish completely by 2028
- Solar stocks plunged on the news, with companies like Sunrun and Enphase dropping as much as 40 percent and 23 percent, respectively, according to Investopedia
This makes 2025 one of the last years to take full advantage of the 30 percent federal credit.
California’s State-Level Incentives
If you live in California, your potential benefits multiply. According to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), there are several programs that can reduce or nearly eliminate your solar costs.
Sales Tax Exemption
California waives state sales tax on eligible solar systems, saving you hundreds or thousands, depending on your system size.
SGIP – Self-Generation Incentive Program
SGIP offers generous rebates for battery storage systems, especially for residents in wildfire-prone or low-income areas. When combined with the federal credit, it can cover up to 90 percent of your battery cost.
SASH and DAC-SASH Programs
California’s Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) and Disadvantaged Communities SASH (DAC-SASH) offer income-qualified homeowners rooftop solar with little to no out-of-pocket cost. If you qualify, your system could be installed at effectively no charge.
Community Solar Green Tariff (CSGT)
If your home is not suitable for rooftop panels, California’s community solar programs allow you to subscribe to solar from a shared site. In return, you receive up to 20 percent off your electricity bill, no panels required.
Property Tax Exclusion
Solar panels add value to your home, but California will not increase your property taxes for having them. This incentive is scheduled to expire at the end of 2025, unless extended.
Are You Eligible?
Many programs require specific criteria. You may qualify for near-zero-cost solar if:
- Your household income meets state or utility thresholds
- You live in a designated disadvantaged or wildfire-prone community
- You are a CARE or FERA ratepayer
- You install before key incentives expire
- You combine federal, state, and utility rebates strategically
Because program eligibility is complicated and funding is limited, we strongly recommend having an expert evaluate your case.
Why You Should Act Now
If you wait, you may lose access to:
- The full 30 percent federal tax credit
- California’s sales tax and property tax exclusions
- SGIP battery rebates, which are expected to run out soon
- Community solar subscription openings
- Funding from programs like DAC-SASH
Solar systems are a long-term investment, but 2025 offers one of the last best moments to install yours with maximum financial support.
So, Can You Still Get Free Solar Panels From the Government in 2025?
Yes, but only if you qualify and act quickly.
With layered incentives and time-sensitive programs, homeowners in California, especially those with limited income, can access solar systems with little to no upfront cost.
That said, not everyone qualifies, and program details vary by region. The best way to find out what you can claim is to get a professional quote and have your eligibility assessed right away.
Get Your Free Solar Evaluation Now
At NRG Clean Power, we are helping Californians make the most of 2025’s final wave of solar incentives. We’ll guide you through every program, evaluate your eligibility, and show you the real numbers, no fluff, no pressure. Click here to get your quick quote now
