Solar ROI guide · Solar & energy tools · Benchmarks · Main ROI calculator
Solar ROI Calculator
Payback, 20-year and lifetime ROI, and cumulative savings—same inputs; two comparison horizons.
Inputs
Year‑1 savings = annual kWh × $/kWh (100% offset). Savings grow each year with your rate escalation. Panel degradation, maintenance, and time-of-use rates are not modeled.
Results
Payback period
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ROI (20-year)
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ROI (lifetime)
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Total savings (20-year)
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Total savings (lifetime)
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Annual savings (year 1)
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What is solar ROI?
Solar ROI is the percentage return on net cost (after the tax credit) versus cumulative utility savings over a stated period. This calculator shows both 20-year and lifetime ROI so you can match common benchmarks and full ownership.
How long does solar take to pay off?
Payoff is payback: cumulative savings reaching net cost. Many U.S. residential installs fall in a roughly 6–12 year range after incentives; your bill, kWh offset, and escalation drive the result.
Is solar worth it financially?
It can be when lifetime savings clearly exceed net cost and payback fits your plans—compare scenarios with lower production or higher cost before deciding. Use Solar ROI guide and benchmarks for context, not a guarantee.