Tools Solar Calculator

Should I Go Solar?

An honest calculator that can tell you no. Enter your details and get a real recommendation — not a lead form.

Updated for 2026: HR1 repealed the 30% federal residential solar tax credit. This calculator reflects the new reality. Read what changed →

Your Situation

State

Monthly Electricity Bill

Roof Age

Roof Shading

Primary Roof Direction

How Long You'll Stay

System & Financing

System Size Preference

Financing Preference

Net Metering Available?

Electricity Rate Trend Assumption

Conservative (2%/yr) Aggressive (6%/yr)

3.5%/yr — U.S. average has been ~3.5%/yr over the last decade.

System Size

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Year 1 Production

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Net Cost (After ITC)

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Payback Period

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25-Year Savings

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	Cash	Loan (7%, 15yr)	Lease/PPA

Note: Solar loan costs often include 15–30% in dealer fees baked into the price. Ask your installer about this — most won't mention it.

Cash purchase shown with shaded area. Hover/tap for values.

Data sources: NREL PVWatts (irradiance), EIA (utility rates), SEIA (cost benchmarks).

Actual roof measurements or satellite imagery — system size is estimated from your bill
Your specific utility's rate structure (TOU, tiered) — we use state averages
Local permitting costs, HOA restrictions, or interconnection fees ($200–$1,000 typical)
Tree growth or new construction that could add shading over time
Home value increase — studies show 3–4% but it varies by market
Battery storage costs or benefits (that's a separate tool we're building)
State-specific SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits) — can add $500–$3,000/yr in some states
Potential changes to net metering policies during the system's 25-year lifetime
Dealer fees on solar loans (can inflate the financed price 15–30%)

This tool gives you a solid starting estimate. For a precise number, get 3+ quotes from local installers. Read our guides on what to look for.