2026 edition

Is solar still worth it now that the tax credit is gone?

By the Solar Cost Index team · How we calculate

Usually, yes. Buying a typical system outright pays for itself in about 9 years in California and 15 in Illinois.

The 30% federal credit for homeowners ended on December 31, 2025. Now it comes down to your power rate, your sunlight and your utility's export rules. We run those numbers for each state and city from public data.

Years to pay back a cash purchase

Where to start

• Lease, PPA or buy? Leasing companies still get a federal credit. You don't.
• Is a battery worth it? Depends on your utility's export rules.
• Your installer went bankrupt. What still works and who fixes it.
• Calculator. Your bill, your state.