How long does solar payback last?

Payback periods vary significantly by state, depending on the availability of incentives, the cost of solar, and the cost of electricity. Remember: Solar payback periods will extend 43% longer—or up to 8 years—starting January 1, 2026, when the federal solar tax credit disappears.

How long does it take for solar panels to pay back?

So, if it takes 10 years to recover the cost of your solar panels, you can still expect savings on your electric bills for another 15 years, which is an excellent investment. Solar companies can provide you with an estimate of your payback period.

How do you calculate solar payback?

Determine Your Solar Payback Period Divide the net cost of your solar system (after subtracting incentives) by your annual electricity bill savings. This calculation will give you the estimated time for your solar investment to pay for itself, known as the payback period or break-even point.

How long do solar panels last on EnergySage?

That's the average payback period on EnergySage. At the end of those 7.1 years, your solar panels will have saved you enough money on your electric bill to cover the upfront cost of your system. Year eight in the example is when you technically start saving money, having finally broken even on your investment.

Should I pay back my solar panels if I don't pay back?

Any money you receive to help pay for your solar panels that you don't have to pay back to anyone can help make your solar power payback period even shorter. The most important of these is the federal Residential Clean Energy Credit, which will reduce the amount of taxes you owe by 30% of the cost of your system.

Do you need a payback period for solar?

With a solar loan or a lease or PPA, you often don't need to provide any cash upfront. While you'll save less money in the long run by paying for solar with a loan or lease, assuming your monthly solar payments are less than what you currently pay for electricity, you won't have a payback period.