Estimez vos économies potentielles avec l'énergie solaire.
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Is Solar Worth It? Here Are the Actual Numbers
The average U.S. home uses 10,500 kWh/year in electricity. A typical 8kW solar system produces 9,600–12,800 kWh/year depending on location. At the U.S. average electricity rate of $0.17/kWh, that is $1,632–$2,176 in annual savings. System cost before incentives: $22,000–$28,000. After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), net cost is $15,400–$19,600. Payback period: 7–12 years. Over 25 years: $30,000–$55,000 net savings. The 30% ITC is available through at least 2032 under the Inflation Reduction Act.
How to Estimate Your Solar Savings
Enter your average monthly electricity bill, your state (to estimate local electricity rates and sun hours), and optional system size in kilowatts. The calculator estimates annual electricity production, yearly dollar savings, full system cost, net cost after the 30% federal tax credit, payback period in years, and cumulative 25-year net savings. Results include a 2–3% annual electricity rate inflation assumption, which significantly improves long-term savings estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of your total solar system installation cost directly from your federal income tax bill. On a $24,000 system: $7,200 credit, net cost $16,800. Unlike a deduction, a tax credit reduces taxes owed dollar-for-dollar. The 30% rate is available through 2032 under the Inflation Reduction Act.
The average solar payback period in the U.S. is 7–12 years, depending on local electricity rates, solar irradiance, system cost, and available incentives. States with high electricity rates (California, Massachusetts, Hawaii) have faster payback periods of 5–8 years. After payback, electricity production is essentially free for the remaining panel life.
Zillow research found that homes with solar panels sell for an average of 4.1% more than comparable homes without. On a $350,000 home, that is approximately $14,350 added value. This varies by market — solar adds more value in states with high electricity costs and strong solar adoption.
Net metering allows you to send excess solar electricity to the grid and receive bill credits. When your panels produce more than you use (typically midday), the surplus earns credits that offset nighttime consumption. Net metering policies and rates vary by state and utility — full retail net metering (1:1 credit) provides the greatest financial benefit.
Renters typically cannot install rooftop solar. Community solar programs in many states allow renters to subscribe to off-site solar arrays and receive bill credits. For north-facing roofs, solar can still produce power but at 15–25% reduced efficiency versus south-facing. Ground-mounted systems are an option for properties with appropriate land.
