How do I know if my roof is suitable for solar?

South-facing roofs with a 15–40° pitch and minimal shading are ideal. Your installer will assess your roof's age, condition, and structural capacity. If your roof is more than 10 years old, consider replacing it before installing solar — removing and reinstalling panels later adds $2,000–$5,000.

What happens to my solar system during a power outage?

Grid-tied systems without battery storage automatically shut off during outages for safety reasons (to protect utility workers). Adding a battery backup keeps critical loads running. Some systems offer 'islanding' capability that keeps your home powered from solar + battery even when the grid is down.

Should I buy or lease solar panels?

Buying (cash or loan) gives you the full benefit of the ITC and maximizes long-term savings. Leasing or PPAs have no upfront cost but you don't own the system, can't claim the ITC, and may complicate home sales. Most financial advisors recommend buying if you can.

How long does solar installation take?

The physical installation takes 1–3 days. However, permitting, utility interconnection approval, and inspection can add 4–12 weeks depending on your location. Your installer manages this process.

What certifications should a solar installer have?

Look for NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification — the gold standard for solar installers. Also verify they are licensed as an electrical contractor in your state and carry general liability and workers' comp insurance.

Solar installation guide

Home Solar Panels: Costs, Incentives, and What to Expect in 2027

Understand system types, real installation costs, federal and state incentives, and how to find a certified solar installer near you.

Find a Solar Installer

Solar costs, incentives, and payback periods vary significantly by location, utility rates, roof condition, and system size. Figures in this guide reflect typical US market rates as of 2026. Always obtain multiple quotes and verify current incentive eligibility with a licensed installer.

Solar System Types: Which One Is Right for You?

Most residential solar installations are grid-tied systems. Battery storage and off-grid options add cost but provide energy independence.

Grid-tied (no battery)

Lowest upfront cost

The most common and affordable option. Your panels feed excess power back to the grid via net metering, reducing your bill. Power goes out when the grid goes out.

Best for: Most homeowners in areas with net metering

Grid-tied with battery backup

$8,000–$15,000 more than grid-tied alone

Adds a home battery (e.g. Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ) to store excess solar energy. Keeps critical loads running during outages.

Best for: Areas with frequent outages or poor net metering rates

Off-grid

Highest upfront cost; not practical for most homes

Completely disconnected from the utility grid. Requires a large battery bank and careful load management. Rare for suburban homes.

Best for: Rural properties without grid access

Solar Installation Costs in 2026

The national average cost for a residential solar system is $2.50–$3.50 per watt before incentives. Most homes need a 6–12 kW system.

Small system (4–6 kW)

Suitable for smaller homes or partial offset

$10,000–$18,000

Medium system (7–10 kW)

Most common residential size

$18,000–$30,000

Large system (11–15 kW)

High-consumption homes or EV charging

$28,000–$45,000

Battery storage add-on (per unit)

Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ, Franklin WH

$8,000–$15,000

Roof reinforcement (if needed)

Required if roof structure needs upgrading

$1,000–$5,000

Electrical panel upgrade (if needed)

Older panels may need upgrading for solar

$1,500–$4,000

* Before federal and state incentives. Always get written quotes from certified installers.

Federal and State Incentives That Reduce Your Cost

The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is the single biggest incentive available to most homeowners. State and utility incentives stack on top.

Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

30% of total system cost

Applies to panels, labor, battery storage, and permitting. Claimed on your federal tax return. Available through at least 2032.

Availability: All US homeowners with federal tax liability

State income tax credits

Varies — typically 10–25%

Many states offer additional credits on top of the federal ITC. Check your state energy office for current rates.

Availability: Varies by state

Net metering

Bill credits for excess power

Your utility credits you for solar energy exported to the grid. Rates and policies vary significantly by utility and state.

Availability: Most US utilities (check local policy)

Property tax exemption

Solar value excluded from property tax

Most states exempt the added home value from solar from property tax assessments.

Availability: ~35 states

Sales tax exemption

No sales tax on solar equipment

Many states waive sales tax on solar panels and equipment purchases.

Availability: ~25 states

Utility rebates

$100–$1,000+

Some utilities offer one-time rebates for solar installation. Check with your utility before signing a contract.

Availability: Select utilities

Solar Payback Period and Long-Term Savings

After incentives, most homeowners break even on their solar investment in 6–10 years. Systems typically last 25–30 years, meaning 15–20 years of near-free electricity.

Example scenario

System cost

$22,000

After 30% ITC

$15,400

Annual savings

$1,800

Payback period

8–9 years

25-year lifetime savings

$35,000–$50,000

Example based on a 9 kW system in a moderate-sun state with average electricity rates. Your numbers will vary.

Can You DIY Solar? The Honest Answer.

DIY solar kits exist, but residential solar installation involves electrical work, structural assessment, utility interconnection agreements, and permits. Mistakes can void warranties, fail inspections, and create fire hazards. The ITC also applies to labor costs — so hiring a pro is often financially smarter.

You can handle this

Research system sizes and get multiple quotes
Check your roof age and condition before signing
Verify your utility's net metering policy
Confirm your federal and state tax credit eligibility
Small off-grid cabin or shed systems (low voltage, no grid tie)

Always hire a certified installer

Grid-tied residential solar — requires licensed electrician and utility approval
Any work on your main electrical panel
Roof penetrations and mounting on a warranted roof
Battery storage installation (high-voltage DC systems)
Permit applications and utility interconnection — installers handle this

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Go Solar?

Proxihouse connects you with certified local solar installers for free quotes, system sizing, and incentive guidance.