SolarIs Solar Worth It in 2026? What Changed After the Federal Tax Credit Ended
The 25D federal credit ended for systems installed after 2025. Here is what now decides whether solar pays off, and how to estimate your own payback.
Solar reviews, quote checks and help for solar owners
Check whether a solar quote is fair, read what owners say about installers and lease companies, and get clear next steps if your solar company went out of business. Independent, free and built on government data.
Solar companies homeowners ask about
- Tesla SolarPanels and Powerwall 3, sold online and installed by Tesla or certified installers
- SunrunLease and PPA “subscription” solar and batteries, with a purchase option
- Palmetto LightReachPalmetto’s $0-down solar lease or PPA, with battery and HVAC options
- Momentum SolarRegional installer in 11 states with 25-year warranties
- Trinity SolarFamily-owned Northeast installer serving 9 states
- EnphaseMicroinverters, batteries and monitoring used by many installers
Did your solar company close?
Help for customers of: SunPower Freedom Forever Sunnova Titan Solar Power Solcius Vision Solar ADT Solar Mosaic
Is solar worth it in your state?
- Hawaii 3.8 yrs payback
- California 5.2 yrs payback
- Massachusetts 6.6 yrs payback
- Rhode Island 6.9 yrs payback
- Maine 7.1 yrs payback
Fastest estimated payback for an average home, with no federal tax credit. All states →
Latest guides for solar owners
Solar
Switching ProvidersHow to Switch Electricity Providers in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide
Compare plans on the PUCT's Power to Choose, read the Electricity Facts Label, check your fees, and switch. Your delivery utility and meter stay the same.
SolarHow Many Solar Panels Do I Need? A Simple Sizing Guide
Divide your yearly kWh by production per kW to get system size, then by panel wattage to get a panel count. Worked examples and a roof-space check.
Saving EnergyHow Much Does It Cost to Run an Air Conditioner? (Window and Central AC)
Estimate the cost to run a window or central air conditioner using published wattages and the DOE formula: watts × hours ÷ 1,000 × your rate.
Saving EnergyHow to Lower Your Electric Bill: 12 Practical, Sourced Ways
Practical ways to lower your electric bill, from free thermostat and standby-power fixes to LEDs, insulation and rate plans, each backed by DOE, EPA or EIA guidance.
Electric BillsWhy Is My Electric Bill So High? Common Causes and How to Check
A high electric bill usually means more kWh, a higher price per kWh or a longer billing period. Here's how to tell which, and what to check next.
Tools and data
- Solar panel calculatorSystem size, cost, savings and payback.
- Electricity rates by stateUS average 18.16¢/kWh (12-month).
- Average electric billUS average $209 in August 2026.
- All calculatorsBills, kWh, appliances, amps, EV charging.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a solar quote is fair?
Divide the price (minus any battery) by the system size in watts to get the price per watt, then compare it with typical prices and other quotes. Our free solar quote checker does this for your state.
What happens to my solar panels if the installer goes out of business?
Your system keeps working. Manufacturer warranties generally remain valid, lease and loan payments continue, and any licensed solar company can service it. Our solar orphans guide covers each closed company.
Is there still a federal solar tax credit?
The residential clean energy credit (25D) does not apply to expenditures made after 31 December 2025. State, utility and local incentives may still be available.
Are the reviews on SolarOwnersHub.com independent?
Yes. Companies cannot pay to change ratings or remove reviews. We check every review and publish positive and negative reviews alike.
What is the average electricity rate in the US?
The US average residential rate is 18.16¢ per kWh over the last 12 months, according to EIA data through August 2026.