Solar Panel Payback Calculator

System size

Installed cost (net of rebate)

Peak sun hours / day

System efficiency (derate)

Your state (sets the rate)

Electricity rate

$/kWh

Panel lifespan

Know your panel count & wattage?

Panels

Watts each

= 7.2 kW

Payback period

11.9 yr

Lifetime savings (25 yr): $19,896

Annual production: 9,198 kWh
Annual savings: $1,516/yr
Cost per watt: $2.57/W

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Payback = installed cost ÷ the yearly value of the electricity it offsets. Enter the cost net of any rebate you qualify for. We don't model incentives, which change. Results depend on your sun, rate, and cost; panels typically last ~25–30 years.