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Solar ROI Calculator

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System paid for after

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Average ROI per year

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ROI over lifetime

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Annualy Savings vs. Total Return

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What is a Solar ROI Calculator?

A Solar ROI (Return-On-Investment) Calculator estimates:

  • How many years until your solar system pays for itself (payback period).
  • Your total dollar savings in year 1 (bill reduction + export income).
  • Total profit over its lifetime (lifetime ROI, typically 25 years).
  • An interactive chart of annual savings vs. cumulative ROI over time.

How to use

  • System size (kWp)
    Enter the DC-rating of your solar array (e.g. 8 kWp).
  • System cost ($)
    Full installed price before any tax credits or rebates.
  • Electricity prices
    • Cost per kWh ($) – your retail rate for on-site use.
    • Feed-in tariff ($/kWh) – what you earn for exported energy.
  • Self-consumption (%)
    The share of solar production you’ll use on-site (export % is 100 – self).
  • Escalation rate (%)
    Expected annual increase in electricity prices.
  • System production per year (kWh)
    Leave blank to auto-estimate from latitude & kWp, or enter your own estimate. If you are unsure about expected output, this solar cable sizing calculator can help you plan system efficiency and ensure your installation performs safely and effectively.
  • Tax credit / rebate (%)
    Upfront incentive that reduces your net cost.
  • Location
    Type your city/address or click “Use my current location” for irradiance data.

Key benefits

  • See exactly when and how much you’ll save.
  • Test different scenarios instantly—size, cost, incentives.
  • Auto-calculate production based on your location.
  • Avoid surprises—get the full financial picture before you buy.

  • You can also estimate your system performance more accurately using this optimal solar panel angle tool, which helps maximize energy production and improve your ROI results.

Disclaimer: This calculator is designed to give helpful financial estimates to support your solar planning. Actual savings and system performance can vary depending on your location, utility rates, incentives, equipment, and installation conditions. For the most accurate projections, it is recommended to confirm details with a licensed solar installer, your utility provider, or a qualified financial professional.