Plug-in solar
Legal from Jan 1, 2027 Not yet, but soon. California signed SB 868 on Sept 30, 2026; it takes effect Jan 1, 2027. The full rules for California.
A typical 800 W kit on a south-facing balcony railing would make about 966 kWh a year here, worth roughly $244 at California’s current price if you use 85% of it at home.
What everyday things cost in California
| Space heater on high, one hour | $0.45 | Heater cost calculator |
|---|---|---|
| Charging an EV at home, per 100 miles | $9.63 | EV charging calculator |
| 100 W of always-on load, per year | $261 | Standby calculator |
| Swapping 15 old bulbs for LEDs, per year | $249 | LED calculator |
Home energy rebates
California wasn’t listed as taking applications for the federal Home Energy Rebate programs (HOMES or HEAR) in an Oct 12, 2026 review of state program pages. Programs open and close as money runs out, so check your state energy office. The federal tax credits for efficiency upgrades and home solar ended after 2025. What’s left in 2026.
Gas lawn equipment
Places in California with rules on gas leaf blowers: Alameda; Berkeley; Burbank; Burlingame; Coronado; Emeryville; Encinitas; Glendale; Irvine; Lafayette; Los Angeles; Menlo Park; Novato; Oakland; Ojai; Palm Springs; Palo Alto; Pasadena; San Francisco; San Mateo; San Rafael; Santa Monica; Walnut Creek. Statewide, most new gas-powered small engines, including mowers and leaf blowers, can no longer be sold in California; portable generators follow in 2028. All local bans.
Clotheslines
California has a law that limits bans on clotheslines, including by HOAs. Right-to-dry laws.