When Does Your Solar System Start Printing Money?
Payback (years) = Net System Cost ÷ Annual Electricity Savings. A $9,000 system saving $1,500/year pays back in 6 years — then generates free power for 19+ more years.
What Determines Your Savings
Your electricity rate is the biggest factor. $0.30/kWh (California, Germany) saves double what $0.12/kWh does (Texas). Net metering policy and panel efficiency also matter.
Typical Payback by Region
| Australia | 3–5 years |
| USA (California) | 4–6 years |
| South Africa | 4–7 years |
| Germany | 6–9 years |
