Price of solar panel electricity generation

How much do solar panels cost?

As of 2025, the average cost of residential solar panels in the U.S. is between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. This typically translates to about $2.50 to $3.50 per watt of installed capacity (more on price per watt below). The total price depends on your system size, location, roof type, and installer.

How much does solar energy cost per kWh?

Cost per kWh shows the lifetime cost of solar electricity by dividing your net system cost by total expected energy production over 25 years. This typically ranges from 6-8 cents per kWh, compared to current grid electricity averaging 16.44 cents per kWh nationally.

What is the relative cost of solar energy?

Another measure of the relative cost of solar energy is its price per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Whereas the price per watt considers the solar system’s size, the price per kWh shows the price of the solar system per unit of energy it produces over a given period of time. Net cost of the system / lifetime output = cost per kilowatt hour

How much does solar installation cost?

Installation labor accounts for only 5.5-7% of total cost ($1,375-$2,500 for average systems), while soft costs represent 40-50% of total investment: Solar costs vary significantly by location due to labor rates, permitting requirements, market competition, and local incentives.