How long do solar panels pay back?

Solar panel payback time can range between 5 and 15 years in the United States, depending on where you live. How quickly your solar panels pay back their cost depends on how much you paid, the price of electricity from your utility, and available upfront and ongoing incentives. How is the payback period defined for solar panels?

How long does it take a solar system to pay off?

The average solar payback period for EnergySage customers is currently just over seven years. However, without the federal tax credit, that same system would take over 10 years to pay for itself. Here's what you need to know about how long it's likely to take you to break even on your solar energy investment—and why timing matters.

What is a solar panel payback period?

"Solar panel payback period" is the amount of time it’ll take you to completely pay off your solar power system through savings on your electric bill. It is calculated by taking the total cost to install the system, then subtracting solar incentives and/or rebates, and monthly electric bill savings until the total cost has been paid off.

How long does it take to recoup solar energy?

Switching to solar energy is a major financial commitment and, if you’re like most homeowners, you’ll want to know how long it will take to recoup your investment. This average recovery time, called the solar panel payback period, typically ranges from six to 10 years, depending on a handful of factors.

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.

How do I calculate my solar payback period?

To calculate your solar payback period, divide your combined costs by your annual savings. With tax credit: Combined costs ($18,552) ÷ annual savings ($2,613) = solar payback period (7.1 years) Without tax credit: Combined costs ($27,360) ÷ annual savings ($2,613) = solar payback period (10.5 years)