Honest 2026 cost data

Is solar still worth it in 2026?

Get an honest cost range, payback estimate, and 25-year savings figure for home solar in about 30 seconds — built from published 2026 pricing data and your state's actual electricity rates and net-metering rules.

No email required
Ranges, not fake-exact prices
Expired 30% federal credit correctly set to $0

Why trust this calculator? The 30% federal residential solar tax credit expired for systems installed after Dec 31, 2025 — but most online calculators still subtract it, making 2026 solar look ~30% cheaper than it is. We show the real numbers: $0 federal credit, stated up front.

ZIP code Sets your electricity rate, sun hours, and net-metering rules.

Roof direction Which way the largest roof slope faces.

Your electricity usage

Average monthly electric bill Check a recent bill — use the total, not just the energy charge.

Roof shading

Home battery

Adds ~$8k–$12k. Helps most where export credits are low.

I own this home (renters generally can't install rooftop solar)

Estimated net cost (after incentives)

$0 – $0

Component	Approx. range

Savings outlook	Estimate

Estimate, not a quote. This range is built from published 2026 national and state pricing data — it can't see your roof's structure, exact shading, HOA rules, or your utility's current rate plan. Real installer quotes for the same home routinely differ by thousands of dollars. How we calculate this →

Want exact numbers for your roof?

Get free quotes from vetted local solar installers — compare at least three before you sign anything.

Get exact quotes from vetted local installers

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