See exactly how much solar panels will save on your electric bill — monthly, annually, and over 25 years. Adjusted for electricity rate increases.
Rate: $26.8¢/kWh · 4.2 peak sun hrs/day
≈ 560 kWh/month at Massachusetts rates
90–100% is typical for most homeowners. Reduce if your roof is partially shaded.
U.S. average: 4%/year. Higher in CT, MA, CA. Lower in Southeast.
| Year | Grid Cost | Solar Savings | Net Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $1,800 | $1,620 | $1,620 |
| Year 2 | $3,672 | $3,305 | $3,305 |
| Year 3 | $5,619 | $5,057 | $5,057 |
| Year 5 | $9,749 | $8,774 | $8,774 |
| Year 10 | $21,611 | $19,450 | $19,450 |
| Year 15 | $36,042 | $32,438 | $32,438 |
| Year 20 | $53,601 | $48,240 | $48,240 |
| Year 25 | $74,963 | $67,466 | $67,466 |
* Cumulative grid cost assumes you continue paying full electricity bills with no solar. Solar savings assume all production offsets your bill at retail rate.
Assumptions & Notes
• System cost based on 2026 national average installed cost ($3.30/W DC)
• Federal ITC = 30% of gross installed cost. Energy Community counties may qualify for 40%.
• Production estimate: system kW × 4.2 peak sun hrs × 365 days × 80% system derate
• Net metering: full retail rate credit assumed
• Rate escalation: 4%/year compounded (U.S. avg: 4%/yr, 2003–2023)
• Does not include state-specific incentives (SREC income, PBI programs, state tax credits) which can significantly improve results
• Get 3+ quotes from local installers for accurate pricing — actual costs vary by 20–40%