Solar Payback Calculator
Enter your system cost, any incentives you actually qualify for, and expected monthly savings.
Simple payback period
13.1 years
Net cost after incentives: $22,000 · Annual savings: $1,680
The 30% federal solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired for systems installed after December 31, 2025. This calculator does NOT apply it automatically — enter only incentives you've actually confirmed with your state, utility or installer.
Formula: payback years = (system cost − incentives) ÷ (monthly savings × 12). This is a simple payback calculation, not a full lifetime return model — it doesn't account for electricity rate inflation, panel degradation, or financing costs. See the full solar cost guide for sources.