Most residential solar systems run roughly $15,000–$30,000 before incentives, depending on size, your roof, and your region. But with $0-down financing, the number that matters is the monthly one — and the goal is a payment lower than your current electric bill, with nothing paid upfront.
What drives the price
| Factor | Effect on cost |
|---|---|
| System size (kW) | Biggest driver — sized to your electricity usage |
| Roof complexity | Steep, multi-plane, or shaded roofs cost more to install |
| Battery storage | Adds cost, but adds backup power during outages |
| Your region & utility | Affects install cost and the savings side of the equation |
Cash, loan, or $0-down — what changed in 2026
- Cash — highest lifetime savings, largest upfront cost, and no federal credit in 2026.
- Loan — own the system with little or nothing down; also no federal credit for owned systems.
- $0-down lease / PPA — no upfront cost; the installer owns the system, claims the 30% credit, and prices your payment to reflect it. The only path that still captures the federal 30% for a homeowner in 2026.
Online ranges only go so far — your real number depends on your roof, usage, and utility. A quick match to local installers gets you actual quotes, free.
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See If You Qualify →Frequently asked questions
How much does solar cost in 2026?
Most residential systems run about $15,000–$30,000 before incentives, driven mainly by system size, roof complexity, whether you add a battery, and your region. With $0-down financing there's no upfront cost — the figure that matters is a monthly payment aimed below your current electric bill.
Is there really $0-down solar?
Yes. With a lease or PPA you pay nothing upfront — the installer owns and maintains the system and you pay for the power it produces, ideally at a lower, steadier rate than your utility. In 2026 this structure also captures the 30% federal credit, claimed by the owner.
Is it cheaper to buy or lease solar in 2026?
Buying with cash usually gives the most lifetime savings if you can cover the upfront cost, but owned systems get no federal credit in 2026. A $0-down lease or PPA has no upfront cost and still captures the 30% through the installer, so it often wins on monthly cash flow.
Does adding a battery change the cost a lot?
A battery adds to the price, but buys backup power during outages and can improve savings under some utility rate plans. Whether it's worth it depends on how outage-prone your area is and your utility's rates.
This page is general information, not tax or legal advice. Federal and state solar incentives change and depend on your situation — confirm details with a licensed tax professional before deciding. Last reviewed: June 2026.