What PG&E customers are paying now
PG&E's average residential rate was 33.7 cents per kilowatt-hour in June 2026. Over 10 years, rates rose 69%, about 5.2% a year on average. PG&E's average rate dipped in January 2026, but the long-term trend has been steadily up, and PG&E bills now include a fixed monthly Base Services Charge of about $24 for most households.
The value of solar isn't only today's rate. It's knowing what you'll pay. With the bill swap, your solar rate rises a fixed 3.5% a year, in writing, no matter what happens to PG&E's rates.
How the bill swap works
A solar provider installs panels on your roof at no cost. They own the system, and you buy the power it makes at a lower rate than the utility charges. This is called a power purchase agreement, or PPA.
- Bill review and roof inspection. We read a recent bill to see your real usage and rate plan, then check your roof's condition and sun exposure.
- Lock in your rate. You see your solar rate in writing before you sign. It rises a fixed 3.5% a year, never more.
- Install and swap. Panels usually go up in one day. Once the utility approves the connection, you pay for solar power, and your utility bill shrinks to what's left.
What it can look like on a PG&E bill
You keep paying PG&E for the fixed monthly charge and any power you use beyond what your panels make. We add both payments together, so the savings we show are real totals.
Where we serve PG&E customers
PG&E serves much of Northern and Central California. Homeowners we help include those in:
- San Jose and the South Bay
- Oakland and the East Bay
- Santa Rosa and Petaluma
- Fresno and Clovis
- Bakersfield
- Stockton
- Salinas and Monterey
- Santa Cruz
- San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles
- Chico
If you're in a community choice program
Many PG&E customers buy their power through a community choice program, such as Peninsula Clean Energy, Silicon Valley Clean Energy or Central Coast Community Energy, while PG&E delivers it and sends the bill. The bill swap works the same way. Send us every page of the bill so we can see your total cost.
Common questions
PG&E lowered rates in 2026. Is solar still worth it?
PG&E's average rate fell 6.2% in January 2026, but it is still 69% higher than 10 years ago. The bill swap gives you a rate that rises a fixed 3.5% a year, so your cost is predictable either way. Your estimate shows the actual numbers for your home.
Will I still get a PG&E bill?
Yes, a smaller one. PG&E still charges the fixed monthly Base Services Charge and bills for any power you use beyond what your panels produce.
Do I need a battery?
Not always. Under California's current solar rules, a battery helps you use your own solar power in the evening instead of selling it back cheaply. We'll show you both options.
How long does it take?
Most homes go from first call to solar power in 60 to 90 days, depending on permits and PG&E approving the connection.
Last updated September 29, 2026. Rates and rules change. Your estimate is based on your own bill.