Solar Savings Calculator & Cost Estimator
Estimate your solar system cost, 25-year savings, and payback period. Free instant estimate — no commitment required.
Enter Your Details
Your Solar Savings Projection
Based on average data for your region. Actual savings vary by installer and system size.
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System Size (kW)
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Annual Savings
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25-Year Savings
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Payback Period
Cost Breakdown
Important: This is an estimate based on average US data. Actual costs and savings depend on your specific location, roof characteristics, local utility rates, and the solar installer you choose. Get precise quotes from local installers for an accurate picture.
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Calculator uses average US figures: $0.13/kWh electricity rate (EIA), 4.5 peak sun hours/day, $3.00/watt installed cost. Actual results vary. Always get professional quotes. For more detailed estimates, try NREL's PVWatts Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this solar calculator?
Our calculator provides a ballpark estimate based on national averages. It uses average electricity rates ($0.13/kWh), typical peak sun hours (4.5/day), and average installation costs ($3.00/watt). The federal ITC (30%) expired for residential homeowners after December 31, 2025. Our estimate includes approximately 10% for state/local incentives — actual incentives vary significantly by state. Always get quotes from local installers for accurate pricing.
Are there still solar incentives available in 2026?
The federal residential solar tax credit (ITC, Section 25D) expired for homeowners after December 31, 2025. However, many states, utilities, and local governments still offer their own incentives — including rebates, sales tax exemptions, property tax exemptions, and net metering programs. Check your state's energy office or the DSIRE database (dsireusa.org) for current incentives in your area.
What if I rent my home?
Unfortunately, you generally need to own your home to install solar panels. If you rent, check if your landlord would be open to solar — they'd benefit from increased property value. Alternatively, look into community solar programs in your area, which let renters subscribe to a shared solar array.
How long does solar installation take?
The installation itself takes 1–3 days for most homes. However, from signing a contract to having a working system, the full process typically takes 1–3 months due to permits, utility approvals, and installer scheduling.