ThePowerPayback

12kW solar system cost in the US (2026)

A very large or all-electric home, or one running two EVs and a heat pump.

Installed cost (typical)
~$33,000
Generation
~19,440 kWh/year
Annual savings (typical)
~$3,107
Roof space needed
~780 sq ft
Typical payback
~10.6 years
Federal credit (2026)
None (25D expired)
SizeInstalled costGeneration/yrAnnual savingsPaybackRoof space
4kW~$11,000~6,480 kWh~$1,036~10.6 yrs~260 sq ft
6kW~$16,500~9,720 kWh~$1,553~10.6 yrs~390 sq ft
8kW~$22,000~12,960 kWh~$2,071~10.6 yrs~520 sq ft
10kW~$27,500~16,200 kWh~$2,589~10.6 yrs~650 sq ft
12kW (this page)~$33,000~19,440 kWh~$3,107~10.6 yrs~780 sq ft

Savings assume typical electricity rates and net-metering. Your numbers depend on your state and utility,run your own figures here.

Not sure 12kW is the right size?

Enter your actual bill and the calculator recommends a size matched to your usage, with cost, savings, and payback for your state.