This is a planning model, not a market quote. Change $/W to match a local installer quote. State production uses our fallback planning yield; the main calculator can replace it with ZIP-specific PVWatts data.
Planning prices are shown before incentives
The cost calculator uses system watts × the entered cost per watt, plus the optional battery allowance. It does not automatically reduce a new 2026 residential project by the expired 30% Section 25D homeowner credit.
If a state, local or utility incentive applies, verify the current program and eligibility separately before subtracting it from the household cost you use in payback analysis.
Compare solar cost by state
See current marketplace cost-per-watt benchmarks alongside transparent 6 kW and 8 kW planning prices, residential electricity rates and solar-yield context for all 50 states.
Quick planning table at $2.60/W
| System size | Planning cost | 430 W panels |
|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $10,400 | 10 |
| 6 kW | $15,600 | 14 |
| 8 kW | $20,800 | 19 |
| 10 kW | $26,000 | 24 |
| 12 kW | $31,200 | 28 |
| 15 kW | $39,000 | 35 |
These transparent planning values use the current national marketplace benchmark before incentives, financing costs, batteries, roof work or electrical upgrades. State-specific benchmarks are available in the 50-state comparison.
Cost guides by system size
For SEO and homeowner comparison, each guide shows several cost-per-watt scenarios instead of presenting one planning assumption as a market quote.