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.