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Rooftop solar uses solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to turn sunlight into electricity. PV panels can be installed on your roof, or even in your yard. They produce no carbon emissions and can save you thousands of dollars a year. If rooftop solar doesn't work for you, you may be able to participate in a Community Solar program.

Why do it?

To save money by generating carbon-free energy for your home.

When?

Any time, as long as you don’t plan on replacing your roof in the near future.

Who is this for?

Rooftop solar for homeowners, community solar for renters.

Read more about solar power

Home battery storage

When paired with home battery storage, rooftop solar can keep your home powered in the event of grid outages. Home battery storage also lets you store energy from the sun to use at night. Visit the battery storage page on our savings calculator to learn more.

Upfront Costs

$17,000–$24,000 (after tax credits)

Average Lifespan

20 - 30 years

Cost Savings

$1,000+

Features

Zero-carbon, no-cost electricity

Difficulty

Hard, hire a solar installer

Environmental benefits

Carbon-free electricity

Our Takeaway

Rooftop solar produces no carbon emissions, and can save you thousands of dollars a year

Rebates and Credits

Create a personalized plan to see more incentives

To view a personalized list of federal, state, utility, and local incentives, you need to create an electrification plan

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Find a solar installer

Try our contractor network directory

We've curated a list of contractor networks that provide the talent you're looking for. Check it out!

Contractor network directory

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Going all-electric can be tricky. Our free planner makes it easier.

Get your personalized electrification plan — designed for your unique home, lifestyle, and priorities. Understand your costs, maximize your savings, and get started!

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Learn more about solar

Solar power 101

Everything you need to know about solar, including solar panel options, incentives, average costs, and more.

Written by: EnergySage

Solar cheat sheet

Written by: CNET

Project Sunroof: A guide to solar solutions

Written by: Google

Guide to community solar

Written by: Washington Post

Solar: Pricing, costs, and financing

Written by: Energy Sage

Solar and home battery storage

Written by: U.S. Department of Energy

Project guide

Find a solar installer

Electrify your home with the help of a trusted, qualified solar installer

Download our guide for tips on working with solar installers, questions to ask, and how to evaluate quotes.

Get the solar project guide!

FAQs

Where can I get guidance on solar panel options for my home?

Energy Sage has a buyer’s guide that breaks down solar panels by type, efficiency, warranty, climate, and more.

Net energy metering means that your utility pays you for excess electricity generated by your solar panels. You can check with your utility company to find out if your state has mandatory rules. Learn more about net metering from the Solar Energy Industries Association here.

If your home is not right for solar, we recommend participating in a community solar program. A community solar project is a central solar power plant, whose electricity is purchased by multiple community members. Community solar participants often save between 5 to 15 percent on their electricity bills.

Other Projects

Rewiring America is the leading electrification nonprofit working to electrify our homes, businesses, and communities.

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