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Short answer: Divide the price by the system size in watts. In the US, most home systems cost $3.20 to $5.50 per watt before incentives. In 2026 the 30% federal tax credit is gone for systems you buy, so any quote still subtracting it is using old math.
Does any quote do this? (tick all that apply)
In the US, the middle 60% of home systems installed in 2023 cost $3.20 to $5.50 per watt before incentives (Lawrence Berkeley National Lab). Bigger systems usually cost less per watt. In Canada there's no official survey, so compare two or three quotes for the same size system.
Divide the total price before rebates by the system size in watts. A $24,000 quote for an 8 kW (8,000 watt) system is $3.00 per watt.
No, not if you own the system. The federal residential clean energy credit (25D) ended for systems installed after December 31, 2025. A quote that still subtracts 30% is using old math.
It depends on your electricity rate, your sun, and your price. Many 2026 paybacks land around 10 years or more. Be careful with any quote promising under 6 years. Ask to see the math.
Buying usually saves more over 25 years. With a lease or PPA you don't own the panels, you may face yearly price increases, and it can complicate selling your home. Read the transfer terms before you sign.
Sources, checked September 28, 2026: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, Tracking the Sun (2024 edition) · BC Hydro solar rebate · Ontario Home Renovation Savings: solar · IRS residential clean energy credit. Sun hours are 5-year satellite averages for each city.
Related: Why solar quotes vary so much · Red flags when choosing an installer · Top-rated installers by city
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