Utilities / SDG&E
Data last verified: August 2026San Diego Gas & Electric Solar Policy in 2026
Net metering & export credits
Net billing (NEM 3.0). NEM 3.0 export credits well below retail; SDG&E has among the highest retail rates in the nation, making solar-plus-battery the strongest combo.
Electricity rates
San Diego metro rates ~44¢/kWh — highest major metro in the US (EIA 2026).
What this means for solar
- With 44¢/kWh retail, every kWh you self-consume is worth ~2.5× the export credit — batteries pay back fastest here.
- Solar payback among the fastest in the US (~4–6 years typical, 2026).
Sources: EIA electricity rates (2026), state PUC orders and DSIRE (2026). Estimates only — verify with your utility tariff before deciding. Federal residential ITC (Section 25D) expired Dec 31, 2025.