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Discover if solar panels are right for you with our comprehensive calculator. Calculate your potential savings, payback period, return on investment, and environmental impact of switching to solar energy.
Total installation cost before incentives
Federal tax credit is typically 30% ($6,000)
US average: $0.13/kWh
Historical average: 2-4% per year
Average home: 5-7 kW
Peak sun hours per day (US average: 4-6 hours)
12 years
(138 months total)
Based on US grid average emissions
Annual kWh = System Size (kW) × Daily Sun Hours × 365 × 0.75 (efficiency)
Solar panels represent one of the few home improvements that actually pay for themselves through energy savings while increasing property value and reducing carbon emissions. Our solar savings calculator provides comprehensive 25-year analysis including payback period, total savings, ROI percentage, and environmental impact measured in CO2 offset and tree-planting equivalents.
The calculation considers your system cost (after incentives like federal tax credits and state rebates), system size in kilowatts, local sunlight availability (peak sun hours), current electricity rates, and rate inflation (utilities typically raise rates 3-5% annually). We also factor in panel degradation (panels lose about 0.5% efficiency yearly) for realistic long-term projections.
Location dramatically affects solar economics. Southern states average 5-6 peak sun hours daily versus 3-4 in northern states, significantly impacting production. Electricity rates matter too—solar makes financial sense faster in high-rate states (California, Hawaii, Northeast) than low-rate states (Louisiana, Washington). Roof condition, orientation (south-facing ideal), and shading affect system performance and costs.
Federal solar tax credit (26-30% depending on year) significantly reduces upfront costs. Many states offer additional incentives, net metering (selling excess power back to grid), and renewable energy credits. With typical payback periods of 6-10 years and 25+ year system lifespans, solar often delivers 200-300% ROI while providing energy independence and environmental benefits. Use our calculator to determine if solar makes sense for your specific situation.
Solar works everywhere, but economics vary by region. Cloudy areas produce less energy but may have higher electricity rates (making solar more valuable). Check your area's peak sun hours and local incentives. States like California, Arizona, and Florida are ideal, but even northern states can benefit.
Most systems remain grid-connected, pulling power at night and during low production. Net metering credits daytime overproduction against nighttime usage. Battery systems provide independence but add significant cost. Grid-tied systems are most economical for most homeowners.
Minimal maintenance—rain typically cleans panels. Annual inspection recommended. Check for debris, shading from tree growth, and inverter function. Most panels have 25-year warranties and degradation is minimal. Main component needing replacement is inverter (typically after 10-15 years).