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California · Updated August 2026
PG&E rates in 2026
What PG&E customers are actually paying, where the number comes from, and what it means for your bill. Serving San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, Sacramento, Fresno, Bakersfield and much of northern and central California.
33.25¢California residential average, August 2026Ranked #1 by Solar Power World · Inc. 5000 · 20,000+ installations
The numbers
Where PG&E stands right now
| Measure | Current | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| California residential average | 33.25¢ | EIA, August 2026 |
| National average | 18.44¢ | California is about 80% higher |
| Customers served | ~5.5 million | Northern and central California |
| Base Services Charge | fixed monthly | Applies statewide under CPUC Decision 24-05-028 |
Figures as published August 2026. Utility rates change on published schedules — check your own bill for the rate that applies to your account.
Why the number is what it is
What is actually driving this
Among the highest rates in the country
Only Hawaii has higher residential electricity rates than California. The statewide average of 33.25 cents is roughly 80% above the national average of 18.44 cents.
Wildfire and infrastructure recovery
California utilities are recovering large wildfire mitigation and grid hardening programs through rates — undergrounding, covered conductor, inspections and vegetation management.
A fixed charge, not just a per-kWh rate
California has moved part of grid costs into a fixed monthly charge under CPUC Decision 24-05-028. That portion is not offset by solar production.
The honest cost picture
Two ways to pay for solar, and they are very different
If you buy the system
You own the equipment, you keep any renewable energy credits, and you carry the maintenance responsibility. Installed pricing varies by roof, shading and system size.
If you use a PPA
$0 upfront. We install and own the system; you buy the power it produces at a rate set in your agreement, and you only pay for what it actually generates. The system owner carries maintenance for the life of the agreement.
The residential federal tax credit (25D) ended for systems purchased after December 31, 2025.
You will still see ads promising a 30% credit that “ends December 31.” Read the date on them. If you buy a system today as a homeowner, you cannot claim that credit. What remains applies to the owner of the system — which, under a PPA, is us. SolarAmerica does not provide tax advice; talk to your tax professional about your situation.
Who you would be working with
SolarAmerica
We design your system and manage the project; installation is performed by vetted licensed partners in your area.
PG&E questions
The things people actually ask
Is California deregulated?
No. California re-regulated after the 2000–2001 energy crisis. Your utility is determined by your address, unlike Pennsylvania or Texas where you can shop for a supplier.
What is NEM 3.0?
California's net billing structure for new solar systems. Exported power earns considerably less than the retail rate, so the economics favor consuming your own production — which is why battery storage matters more in California.
Does solar still pay in California?
At roughly 33 cents per kilowatt-hour, every unit you generate and use displaces an expensive one. Whether it pays for your specific home depends on your roof, your usage pattern and whether you add storage.
See what your roof and PG&E actually add up to
About 60 seconds. No cost, no obligation, and we will tell you if solar does not make sense for your home.
Ranked #1 by Solar Power World · 20,000+ installations · Licensed installers