Solar Roof Cost Breakdown
Solar costs depend on system size (kW), panel type, and installation complexity. The federal solar tax credit (ITC) currently covers 30% of the total installed cost.
System Size (kW) = Monthly kWh ÷ (Sun Hours × 30 × 0.8)
Number of Panels = System kW ÷ Panel Wattage
Gross Cost = System kW × Cost Per Watt
Net Cost = Gross Cost × 0.70 (after 30% ITC)
Standard Panels vs. Tesla Solar Roof
- Standard panels ($2.50-3.50/watt): Mounted on your existing roof. Most cost-effective option. 25-year warranty. Requires roof to be in good condition.
- Premium panels ($3.00-4.00/watt): Higher efficiency (21-23%), better aesthetics, more power per panel. SunPower, LG, Panasonic.
- Tesla Solar Roof ($5.50-7.50/watt): Replaces your entire roof with solar tiles + inactive tiles. Includes roof replacement cost. 25-year tile and power warranty.