Solar can lower electricity costs for some homes, but the economics depend on your roof, your utility's rates and current incentives. This guide helps homeowners compare solar installers and proposals.
Typical solar energy costs
National ballpark ranges for planning only — not quotes. What you pay depends on scope, materials, access and your local market, so always compare written estimates.
| Service | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Typical residential system (6–10 kW) before incentives | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Price per watt (installed) | $2.50 – $3.50 |
| Battery storage add-on | $9,000 – $20,000 |
| Roof repair before install (if needed) | $500 – $5,000+ |
| Panel cleaning/inspection | $100 – $400 |
How solar energy needs vary by region
Climate changes what matters most, what fails first and when to book. Find your region below.
| Region | What changes |
|---|---|
| Hot & humid South AL, AR, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX | Strong sun makes solar attractive in this region, but summer storms and heat affect system design. Ask about roof condition, wind ratings and how net metering works with your utility. |
| Hot & dry Southwest AZ, NM, NV | Abundant sunshine in this region helps production, while high heat slightly lowers panel efficiency. Compare proposals on production estimates and utility rate structure. |
| Mixed / four-season DC, DE, KS, KY, MD, MO, NC, OK, TN, VA, WV | Solar economics in this region depend heavily on your utility's net-metering rules and your roof. Get multiple proposals and compare the same assumptions across each. |
| Cold North & Mountain AK, CO, CT, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, ME, MI, MN, MT, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SD, UT, VT, WI, WY | Panels still produce in cold weather, and snow usually slides off tilted arrays. The key variables in this region are roof orientation, utility rules and shading. |
| Mild West Coast CA, OR, WA | Solar value in this region depends on your utility's rates and export rules. Ask each installer to explain how credits for excess power are calculated. |
How to hire the right solar installer
- Review recent electric bills to understand your usage and rates.
- Have your roof's age and condition assessed before installing panels.
- Get at least three proposals and compare them on a cost-per-watt and expected-production basis.
- Understand financing: cash purchase, loan, lease or power purchase agreement (PPA).
- Check which incentives currently apply — these change often — and how your utility credits excess power.
Questions to ask before you hire
- What is the total installed cost and cost per watt?
- What production does the proposal assume, and how was it estimated?
- Is this a purchase, loan, lease or PPA, and what are the escalators?
- What are the warranties on panels, inverter and workmanship?
- How does my utility credit excess power, and what could change?
Red flags to watch for
- Claims of 'free solar' or guaranteed savings.
- High-pressure same-day sign-up deals.
- Proposals without production estimates.
- Financing terms that aren't disclosed clearly.
Licensing and verification
Solar installers are generally required to hold appropriate contractor and electrical licenses, and systems need permits and utility interconnection approval. Verify with your state's licensing authority. Incentives change often, so confirm current federal, state and utility programs from official sources.
When to schedule
Allow several weeks to months for design, permitting and utility approval. Start before the season when you expect the highest usage.
Frequently asked questions
Is solar worth it?
Should I buy, lease or sign a PPA?
What happens if I sell my house?
Solar Energy by city
Local notes for 155 cities — licensing bodies, climate and seasonal timing.
Other guides
AllCityPros is an independent information resource. We do not endorse, rate or vouch for any specific business, and nothing here is professional advice. Cost ranges are national ballparks and are not quotes. Always verify licences, insurance and references yourself.