Solar Panel Calculator
Estimate system size, costs, and savings
Your Energy Profile
US average is $0.15/kWh. Check your bill for exact rate.
US average is $2.50-3.50/watt before incentives
Recommended System
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System Size
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kW
Number of Panels
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400W panels
Roof Space Needed
0 sq ft
Annual Production
0 kWh
Cost Breakdown
Savings & ROI
Annual Savings
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Payback Period
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years
25-Year Savings (lifetime)
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CO₂ Offset (25 years)
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Equivalent to planting 0 trees
Is Solar Right For You?
Homeowners with High Bills
If you're paying $150+ monthly for electricity, solar makes strong financial sense. Higher bills mean faster payback. In states like California or Hawaii where rates exceed $0.25/kWh, solar can cut your energy costs by 70-90%.
Sunny Climate Residents
The Southwest US gets 1,800+ peak sun hours annually - ideal for solar. But even "cloudy" places like Seattle or Germany have thriving solar markets. Modern panels work efficiently in diffuse light, not just direct sun.
Long-Term Homeowners
Planning to stay in your home 7+ years? You'll likely see full payback and years of free electricity. Solar also increases home value - studies show homes sell for 4% more with solar panels installed.
Battery Backup Seekers
Pairing solar with battery storage provides energy independence and backup power during outages. While batteries add $10,000-15,000 to system cost, they're increasingly popular in areas with unreliable grids or time-of-use rates.
EV Owners
Electric vehicle owners can significantly benefit from solar. Charging an EV adds 3,000-4,000 kWh to annual usage. Solar lets you "fuel" your car with free sunshine. Size your system to cover both home and vehicle needs.
Environmental Impact
A typical home solar system prevents 100+ tons of CO₂ over its lifetime - equivalent to planting 2,500 trees. If reducing your carbon footprint matters to you, solar is one of the most impactful choices you can make.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many solar panels do I need for my home?
The number of panels depends on your electricity usage and location. A typical US home uses 10,500 kWh per year and needs a 7-8 kW system, which is about 20-25 panels. Divide your annual kWh by your area's sun hours (1,200-1,800) to estimate system size in kW.
How much does a home solar system cost?
As of 2024, residential solar costs $2.50-3.50 per watt before incentives. A typical 8 kW system costs $20,000-28,000 before the 30% federal tax credit. After the credit, expect to pay $14,000-19,600. Prices vary by location and installer.
What is the payback period for solar panels?
Most homeowners see payback in 6-10 years depending on electricity rates, sun exposure, and incentives. In states with high electricity costs like California or Hawaii, payback can be as quick as 4-6 years. Solar panels typically last 25-30 years.
How much roof space do I need for solar panels?
Each kilowatt of solar needs about 60-70 square feet of roof space. A typical 8 kW system requires 480-560 square feet. South-facing roofs with minimal shading are ideal. East and west-facing roofs work but produce 10-15% less energy.
Do solar panels work on cloudy days?
Yes, solar panels still produce electricity on cloudy days, but at reduced efficiency (10-25% of full capacity). Annual production accounts for weather patterns. Even cloudy regions like Seattle or Germany have successful solar installations.
What is net metering?
Net metering lets you sell excess solar electricity back to the grid. When your panels produce more than you use, your meter runs backward. You get credited for this energy and can use those credits when your panels aren't producing (at night).
How long do solar panels last?
Quality solar panels last 25-30 years with minimal maintenance. Most manufacturers guarantee at least 80% production after 25 years. Inverters typically need replacement after 10-15 years ($1,000-2,000). Panels require occasional cleaning but no regular maintenance.
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