Is going solar in Susanville still a good investment in 2026?
With high electricity rates from Lassen Municipal Utility District (LMUD) and strong sun, many Susanville homeowners are looking at rooftop solar to reduce their monthly bills. But without the 30% federal tax credit, the financial math has changed. The key to making solar pay off now is understanding how to maximize the value of the energy you generate, especially since exporting power back to the grid doesn't pay what it used to.
From rates to ROI—continue in the savings calculator.
Open calculatorBenchmark Cost Analysis
What Do Solar Panels Cost in Susanville in 2026?
For a typical home in the Susanville area, a 5.9 kW solar system is a common size to offset the average electric bill. The estimated upfront cost is $15,045. If you choose to add home battery storage to maximize your savings, the total cost is higher.
- Solar Only System (5.9 kW): $15,045
- Solar + Battery System (5.9 kW panels, 10 kWh storage): $30,045
These figures represent the total installed cost. Since the federal residential solar tax credit is no longer available for systems placed in service in 2026, the savings come directly from your utility bill and state-level benefits.
Incentives & Tax Credits
Key California Solar Incentives Available in 2026
Even without a federal credit, California provides important financial incentives that support the move to solar:
- Property Tax Exclusion: Your property taxes will not increase after installing a solar energy system. The state of California excludes the added value of the system from your property's assessed value.
- Net Billing Savings: While not a direct incentive, the structure of net billing encourages smart energy use. By pairing panels with a battery, you can significantly reduce the amount of expensive electricity you need to buy from LMUD.
- Long-Term Home Value: An owned solar system is a significant home upgrade that can enhance resale appeal for future buyers looking for lower, more predictable energy costs.
Net Metering: Lassen Municipal Utility District
Net Billing (low export)
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How Lassen MUD Credits Your Solar Power
Under the current net billing framework, the power you buy from LMUD is much more expensive than the credit you receive for power you export. You might pay around $0.323 per kWh for electricity, but the credit for your exported solar energy is estimated to be only about $0.113 per kWh.
This difference makes it clear: the most valuable solar energy is the energy you use yourself. A battery is the best tool for this, ensuring your solar investment works for you around the clock, not just when the sun is shining.
Projected Savings
Projected Annual Savings on Your LMUD Bill
Installing a 5.9 kW solar-only system is modeled to save a Susanville homeowner approximately $1,773 in the first year. However, by adding a 10 kWh battery, those first-year savings jump to an estimated $2,611.
The battery provides more savings because it allows you to store the solar energy your panels produce during the day and use it during the evening. This strategy, known as self-consumption, is far more valuable than sending your excess power to the grid for a low credit. An owned solar system also helps protect you from future LMUD rate increases, making your savings more impactful over time.