☀️ Solar Savings Calculator

Enter your monthly electric bill and state. Get your system size, install cost, payback period, and 25-year savings — updated instantly.

⚠️ 2026 update: The 30% federal solar tax credit (Section 25D) was eliminated on January 1, 2026. Numbers below reflect full out-of-pocket cost. State incentives may still apply.

$
$
75%
85% ✓
100%
$2.50/W$3.00/W$4.00/W

Your Estimate

—

25-Year Net Savings

Monthly Usage—
System Size Needed—
Install Cost (no tax credit)—
Monthly Savings—
Annual Savings—
Payback Period —
CO₂ Offset / Year—
Equivalent Trees Planted—

Estimates based on your state's avg sun hours & 2026 install prices. Actual results vary by installer, roof, and shading.

📈 Cumulative Savings Over 25 Years

—Yr 5
—Yr 10
—Yr 15
—Yr 20
—Yr 25

Assumes 3% annual electricity rate increase. Net of system cost.

Fill in your bill and state above to see your personalized summary.

Ready to Get Real Quotes?

Compare quotes from vetted local solar installers — no spam, no pressure. EnergySage is the leading marketplace for honest solar pricing.

Compare Installer Quotes →

Calculator FAQ

How accurate is this calculator? ▼

It's a solid ballpark — typically within 15–20% of actual installer quotes. It uses real 2026 state electricity rates and average peak sun hours for your state. The actual price depends on your specific roof, shading, local permitting costs, and which installer you use. Always get 2–3 quotes to compare.

Why isn't the federal tax credit included? ▼

The 30% residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) was eliminated when the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed on July 4, 2025. Systems installed in 2026 and beyond do not qualify for any federal credit. Some state programs and utility rebates still apply — see our state incentives page.

What does "offset" percentage mean? ▼

It's what share of your electricity bill you want solar to cover. 85% is the industry sweet spot — it accounts for shading, seasonal variation, and cloudy days while keeping system size and cost practical. Going to 100% often means paying for extra capacity you rarely use.

What is "peak sun hours"? ▼

Peak sun hours are the number of hours per day your location receives enough sunlight (at least 1,000 W/m²) to generate rated panel output. Arizona gets ~6.5 peak sun hours/day; New York gets ~3.8. More sun hours = smaller system needed for the same output.

Does the 25-year savings figure include inflation? ▼

Yes — it assumes a 3% annual increase in electricity rates, which is close to the 30-year historical average. Electricity prices have actually risen faster (about 4–5%/year) in high-cost states, so the projection may be conservative for California, New York, and Hawaii residents.