Solar

Solar Panel Cost Calculator

Solar is usually priced per watt of capacity. Enter your system size and price per watt to estimate the total cost before and after incentives.

Your details

kW
$ /W

Typical fully-installed price is around $2.50–$3.50 per watt.

%

Share of cost covered by credits or rebates.

Results

Cost before incentives
—
Incentive / credit
—
Net cost after incentives
—

Last updated June 30, 2026. Results update automatically as you type.

How it works

Cost before incentives = system size × 1000 × cost per watt. Incentive = gross cost × incentive % ÷ 100. Net cost = gross − incentive. Use the net cost as the input to our solar payback calculator to find your break-even point.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a solar system cost?

It varies by region and installer, but fully-installed prices commonly fall around $2.50–$3.50 per watt before incentives. Always get multiple quotes.

What counts as an incentive?

Tax credits, rebates and grants that reduce your net cost. Enter the combined percentage they cover.

Does cheaper per watt mean better value?

Not always — very low quotes can mean lower-quality gear or weaker warranties. Compare equipment and installer reputation, not just price.

These calculators provide general estimates for educational purposes only and are not financial advice. Real-world results depend on factors not captured here. Verify figures independently before making any purchase or financial decision.

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