{
  "name": "Residential solar modelling inputs by US state",
  "description": "Modelled inputs for residential solar in all 50 US states and DC: average residential electricity rate, daily peak sun hours, installed cost per watt before incentives, long-run rate escalation, the headline state incentive where one exists, the export-compensation rule, and the major serving utilities. Every figure is a modelled state average, not a quote.",
  "source": "killmyenergybill.com",
  "url": "https://killmyenergybill.com/data",
  "license": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/",
  "licenseName": "CC BY 4.0",
  "attribution": "Data from killmyenergybill.com (https://killmyenergybill.com/data), CC BY 4.0.",
  "updated": "2026-08-01",
  "federalTaxCredit": {
    "program": "IRC Sec. 25D residential clean energy credit",
    "status": "ended",
    "lastEligiblePlacedInService": "2025-12-31",
    "homeownerValueNow": 0
  },
  "modelledExample": {
    "systemKw": 8,
    "derate": 0.8,
    "panelWatts": 400,
    "note": "grossCost, netCost and paybackYears below are this model applied to each state's own inputs. No federal homeowner credit is applied."
  },
  "sources": [
    "US Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential retail rates)",
    "NREL PVWatts / National Solar Radiation Database (peak sun hours)",
    "DSIRE, dsireusa.org (state and utility incentives)",
    "LBNL Tracking the Sun and the NREL residential benchmark (installed cost per watt)"
  ],
  "count": 51,
  "states": [
    {
      "code": "AL",
      "name": "Alabama",
      "slug": "alabama",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/alabama",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-05",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 15.4,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.5,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.7,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Alabama has no statewide net metering rule, and Alabama Power charges solar owners a monthly capacity fee while crediting exports below retail.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Alabama Power",
        "Tennessee Valley Authority",
        "Huntsville Utilities",
        "Baldwin EMC"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 21600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 21600,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10512,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1619,
        "paybackYears": 13.3
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "AK",
      "name": "Alaska",
      "slug": "alaska",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/alaska",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-06",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 24.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 3,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.5,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Alaska allows net metering for utilities serving more than five megawatt-hours, but exports are credited at the utility's avoided cost rather than the retail rate.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Chugach Electric Association",
        "Golden Valley Electric Association",
        "Alaska Electric Light & Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 28000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 28000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 7008,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1717,
        "paybackYears": 16.3
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "AZ",
      "name": "Arizona",
      "slug": "arizona",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/arizona",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-26",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 14.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 6,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.5,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Arizona Residential Solar Energy Tax Credit",
        "summary": "State income tax credit worth 25% of system cost, capped at $1,000 per residence.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 1000,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Arizona ended retail net metering in 2016; exports are bought back under an export rate that is reset annually and sits well below the retail price.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Arizona Public Service",
        "Salt River Project",
        "Tucson Electric Power",
        "UniSource Energy"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 20000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 1000,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 19000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 14016,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2032,
        "paybackYears": 9.3
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "AR",
      "name": "Arkansas",
      "slug": "arkansas",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/arkansas",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-05",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 12.6,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.6,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.75,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.027,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Arkansas kept full retail net metering for systems installed under the pre-2023 rules, but new residential systems are moving to a reduced export credit as utilities file new tariffs.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Entergy Arkansas",
        "Southwestern Electric Power",
        "Ozarks Electric Cooperative",
        "First Electric Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10746,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1354,
        "paybackYears": 16.2
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "CA",
      "name": "California",
      "slug": "california",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/california",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-27",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 31.8,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5.5,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.3,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.04,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "California moved to NEM 3.0 net billing in 2023, which pays roughly 75% less for exported power — solar there now pays best when paired with a battery and heavy self-consumption.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Pacific Gas & Electric",
        "Southern California Edison",
        "San Diego Gas & Electric",
        "LADWP"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 26400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 26400,
        "annualProductionKwh": 12848,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 4086,
        "paybackYears": 6.5
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "CO",
      "name": "Colorado",
      "slug": "colorado",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/colorado",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-21",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 15,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5.4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.9,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Colorado still requires full retail net metering at investor-owned utilities, with excess credits rolling forward month to month.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Xcel Energy",
        "Black Hills Energy",
        "Colorado Springs Utilities",
        "United Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23200,
        "annualProductionKwh": 12614,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1892,
        "paybackYears": 12.3
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "CT",
      "name": "Connecticut",
      "slug": "connecticut",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/connecticut",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-22",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 27.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.2,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.2,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.033,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Connecticut replaced net metering with the Residential Renewable Energy Solutions tariff, which pays a fixed per-kWh rate for 20 years instead of crediting exports at retail.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Eversource Energy",
        "United Illuminating",
        "Norwich Public Utilities"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 25600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 25600,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9811,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2698,
        "paybackYears": 9.5
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "DE",
      "name": "Delaware",
      "slug": "delaware",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/delaware",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-11",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 16.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.9,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Delmarva Green Energy Program",
        "summary": "State-administered up-front grant for Delmarva Power residential customers, sized per watt with a per-home cap.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 2500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Delaware has full retail net metering with annual true-up, and homeowners can also sell SRECs into the state's compliance market.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Delmarva Power",
        "Delaware Electric Cooperative",
        "Newark Electric"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 2500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20700,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10278,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1696,
        "paybackYears": 12.2
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "DC",
      "name": "District of Columbia",
      "slug": "district-of-columbia",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/district-of-columbia",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-11",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 16.8,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.3,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "DC SREC market",
        "summary": "The District's solar carve-out keeps SREC prices among the highest in the country; a typical home system earns several thousand dollars over the first years.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 6000,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "The District has full retail net metering with no system-size cap for residential customers, and SREC income stacks on top of it.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Pepco"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 24000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 6000,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 18000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10045,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1688,
        "paybackYears": 10.7
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "FL",
      "name": "Florida",
      "slug": "florida",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/florida",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-27",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 15.3,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5.2,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.45,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Florida still credits exports at the full retail rate for residential systems, though the utilities have repeatedly pushed the legislature to end it.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Florida Power & Light",
        "Duke Energy Florida",
        "Tampa Electric",
        "JEA"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 19600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 19600,
        "annualProductionKwh": 12147,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1859,
        "paybackYears": 10.5
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "GA",
      "name": "Georgia",
      "slug": "georgia",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/georgia",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-14",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 14.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.8,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.6,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Georgia Power's monthly net metering program is capped statewide and pays an avoided-cost export rate once the cap fills, so the value depends on when you get in.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Georgia Power",
        "Georgia EMC cooperatives",
        "Jackson EMC",
        "Cobb EMC"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 20800,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 11213,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1626,
        "paybackYears": 12.8
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "HI",
      "name": "Hawaii",
      "slug": "hawaii",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/hawaii",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-19",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 41.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5.7,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.6,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.035,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Hawaii Renewable Energy Technologies Income Tax Credit",
        "summary": "State income tax credit of 35% of installed cost, capped at $5,000 per residential system.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 5000,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Hawaii closed net metering in 2015; new systems join Customer Grid Supply Plus or Smart Export, which pay far less than retail and make batteries close to mandatory.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Hawaiian Electric",
        "Maui Electric",
        "Hawaii Electric Light",
        "Kauai Island Utility Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 28800,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 5000,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 13315,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 5526,
        "paybackYears": 4.3
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "ID",
      "name": "Idaho",
      "slug": "idaho",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/idaho",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-07",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 11.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.9,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.7,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.026,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Idaho Residential Alternative Energy Deduction",
        "summary": "State income tax deduction of 40% of cost in year one and 20% for three more years, capped at $5,000 per year.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 800,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Idaho Power moved residential solar onto an hourly net-billing export credit that is recalculated annually and sits below retail.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Idaho Power",
        "Rocky Mountain Power",
        "Avista Utilities"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 21600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 800,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 11446,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1316,
        "paybackYears": 15.8
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "IL",
      "name": "Illinois",
      "slug": "illinois",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/illinois",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-25",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 16.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.3,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program)",
        "summary": "The state buys 15 years of renewable energy credits up front through an approved vendor, typically knocking several thousand dollars off the contract price.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 5000,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": true
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Illinois requires full retail net metering at ComEd and Ameren, with a separate one-time smart-inverter rebate available on top.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "ComEd",
        "Ameren Illinois",
        "MidAmerican Energy"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 24000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 5000,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 19000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10045,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1657,
        "paybackYears": 11.5
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "IN",
      "name": "Indiana",
      "slug": "indiana",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/indiana",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-12",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 15,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.2,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.8,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Indiana ended net metering for new systems in 2022; exports are now bought at roughly 125% of wholesale, well under the retail rate.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "AES Indiana",
        "Duke Energy Indiana",
        "NIPSCO",
        "Indiana Michigan Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22400,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9811,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1472,
        "paybackYears": 15.2
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "IA",
      "name": "Iowa",
      "slug": "iowa",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/iowa",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-07",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 13.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.85,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.027,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Iowa has retail-rate net metering at its investor-owned utilities, but the state solar tax credit was repealed and is no longer available to new installs.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "MidAmerican Energy",
        "Alliant Energy",
        "Cedar Falls Utilities"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22800,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10278,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1388,
        "paybackYears": 16.4
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "KS",
      "name": "Kansas",
      "slug": "kansas",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/kansas",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-06",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 14.2,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.75,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Kansas requires utilities to offer net metering, but monthly excess generation is forfeited to the utility rather than carried forward, so oversizing is punished.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Evergy",
        "Kansas Gas & Electric",
        "Midwest Energy"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 11680,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1659,
        "paybackYears": 13.3
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "KY",
      "name": "Kentucky",
      "slug": "kentucky",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/kentucky",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-12",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 13,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.2,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.8,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Kentucky replaced one-for-one net metering in 2021 with utility-specific export rates set by the PSC, all of them below retail.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "LG&E and KU",
        "Kentucky Power",
        "Duke Energy Kentucky",
        "East Kentucky Power Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22400,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9811,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1275,
        "paybackYears": 17.6
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "LA",
      "name": "Louisiana",
      "slug": "louisiana",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/louisiana",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-13",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 12.8,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.7,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.75,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Louisiana's net metering cap was hit years ago; new residential systems are credited at avoided cost, which is a fraction of the retail rate.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Entergy Louisiana",
        "Cleco Power",
        "SWEPCO",
        "Entergy New Orleans"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10979,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1405,
        "paybackYears": 15.7
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "ME",
      "name": "Maine",
      "slug": "maine",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/maine",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-20",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 25.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.2,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.032,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Maine still offers kilowatt-hour net energy billing at full retail value for residential systems, though the program is under regular legislative pressure.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Central Maine Power",
        "Versant Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 24000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 24000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9811,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2502,
        "paybackYears": 9.6
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "MD",
      "name": "Maryland",
      "slug": "maryland",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/maryland",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-26",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 17.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.9,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Maryland Residential Clean Energy Rebate",
        "summary": "Flat $1,000 state grant per home, plus tradable Maryland SRECs on every megawatt-hour produced.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 2500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Maryland has full retail net metering with an annual cash-out of leftover credits, and an active SREC market on top of it.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "BGE",
        "Pepco",
        "Potomac Edison",
        "Delmarva Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 2500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20700,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10278,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1799,
        "paybackYears": 11.5
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "MA",
      "name": "Massachusetts",
      "slug": "massachusetts",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/massachusetts",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-25",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 30.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.3,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.4,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.035,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "SMART program + state tax credit",
        "summary": "SMART pays a fixed per-kWh incentive for 10 years, and the state income tax credit adds 15% of cost up to $1,000.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 3500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Massachusetts keeps net metering for residential systems at close to full retail value, and the SMART production payment stacks on top.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Eversource Energy",
        "National Grid",
        "Unitil"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 27200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 3500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23700,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10045,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 3064,
        "paybackYears": 7.7
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "MI",
      "name": "Michigan",
      "slug": "michigan",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/michigan",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-18",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 19,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.9,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Michigan replaced net metering with a distributed generation tariff that credits exports at the power-supply portion of the rate only, so exported kilowatt-hours are worth roughly half of what you pay.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "DTE Energy",
        "Consumers Energy",
        "Lansing Board of Water & Light"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23200,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9344,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1775,
        "paybackYears": 13.1
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "MN",
      "name": "Minnesota",
      "slug": "minnesota",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/minnesota",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-18",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 15,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.3,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.029,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Minnesota requires retail-rate net metering for systems up to 40 kW, one of the more generous residential thresholds in the country.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Xcel Energy",
        "Minnesota Power",
        "Otter Tail Power",
        "Connexus Energy"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 24000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 24000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10045,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1507,
        "paybackYears": 15.9
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "MS",
      "name": "Mississippi",
      "slug": "mississippi",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/mississippi",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-04",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 13.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.7,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.75,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Mississippi credits exports at avoided cost plus a small adder rather than the retail rate, so self-consumption carries the economics.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Entergy Mississippi",
        "Mississippi Power",
        "Coast Electric Power Association"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10979,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1482,
        "paybackYears": 14.8
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "MO",
      "name": "Missouri",
      "slug": "missouri",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/missouri",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-13",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 12.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.6,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.75,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.027,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Missouri law guarantees retail-rate net metering for residential systems up to 100 kW, with credits rolling over for twelve months.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Ameren Missouri",
        "Evergy",
        "Empire District Electric"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22000,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10746,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1343,
        "paybackYears": 16.4
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "MT",
      "name": "Montana",
      "slug": "montana",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/montana",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-04",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 12.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.5,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.95,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.027,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Montana Alternative Energy Systems Credit",
        "summary": "State income tax credit of up to $500 per taxpayer, or $1,000 for a married couple installing together.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Montana requires net metering at NorthWestern Energy for systems up to 50 kW, but unused credits are surrendered at the annual true-up.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "NorthWestern Energy",
        "Flathead Electric Cooperative",
        "Missoula Electric Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23100,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10512,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1314,
        "paybackYears": 17.6
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "NE",
      "name": "Nebraska",
      "slug": "nebraska",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/nebraska",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-06",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 11.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.8,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.8,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.026,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Nebraska is entirely publicly owned, and its net metering law caps systems at 25 kW while crediting excess at avoided cost.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Omaha Public Power District",
        "Nebraska Public Power District",
        "Lincoln Electric System"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22400,
        "annualProductionKwh": 11213,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1289,
        "paybackYears": 17.4
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "NV",
      "name": "Nevada",
      "slug": "nevada",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/nevada",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-19",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 16.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 6,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.6,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Nevada restored net metering in tiers after the 2015 rollback; new residential systems earn 75% of the retail rate for exported power.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "NV Energy",
        "Sierra Pacific Power",
        "Valley Electric Association"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 20800,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 14016,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2313,
        "paybackYears": 9
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "NH",
      "name": "New Hampshire",
      "slug": "new-hampshire",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/new-hampshire",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-20",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 25.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.2,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.1,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.032,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "NH Residential Renewable Electric Generation Rebate",
        "summary": "State rebate of $0.20 per watt up to $1,000 per residential system, funded from the Renewable Energy Fund.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 1000,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": true
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "New Hampshire credits residential exports at the full energy and transmission charge but not distribution, so a kilowatt-hour sent back is worth a bit less than one bought.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Eversource Energy",
        "Liberty Utilities",
        "New Hampshire Electric Cooperative",
        "Unitil"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 24800,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 1000,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9811,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2502,
        "paybackYears": 9.5
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "NJ",
      "name": "New Jersey",
      "slug": "new-jersey",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/new-jersey",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-28",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 20.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.1,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI)",
        "summary": "Fixed SREC-II payments per megawatt-hour for 15 years; a typical home system collects a few thousand dollars across that term, not up front.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 4000,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "New Jersey has full retail net metering with an annual true-up, and the SuSI production incentive is paid on top of it.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "PSE&G",
        "Jersey Central Power & Light",
        "Atlantic City Electric",
        "Rockland Electric"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 24800,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 4000,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10278,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2107,
        "paybackYears": 9.9
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "NM",
      "name": "New Mexico",
      "slug": "new-mexico",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/new-mexico",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-14",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 14.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 6.2,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.75,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "New Mexico Solar Market Development Tax Credit",
        "summary": "State income tax credit of 10% of system cost, capped at $6,000, subject to an annual program budget.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 2500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": true
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "New Mexico requires net metering at investor-owned utilities, with excess credited monthly at the utility's energy rate.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "PNM",
        "El Paso Electric",
        "Xcel Energy",
        "Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 2500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 19500,
        "annualProductionKwh": 14483,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2100,
        "paybackYears": 9.3
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "NY",
      "name": "New York",
      "slug": "new-york",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/new-york",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-24",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 24.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.4,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.033,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "NY-Sun Megawatt Block + state solar tax credit",
        "summary": "NYSERDA pays a declining per-watt rebate through the installer, and the state income tax credit adds 25% of cost up to $5,000.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 4500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": true
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "New York keeps net metering for residential solar but adds a monthly Customer Benefit Contribution charge that trims the value slightly.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Con Edison",
        "National Grid",
        "NYSEG",
        "PSEG Long Island"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 27200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 4500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22700,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9344,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2289,
        "paybackYears": 9.9
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "NC",
      "name": "North Carolina",
      "slug": "north-carolina",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/north-carolina",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-15",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 13.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.7,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.6,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.029,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "North Carolina moved Duke Energy customers onto time-of-use net billing in 2023, so export value now depends heavily on when your panels produce.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Duke Energy Carolinas",
        "Duke Energy Progress",
        "Dominion Energy North Carolina",
        "Blue Ridge Energy"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 20800,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10979,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1482,
        "paybackYears": 14
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "ND",
      "name": "North Dakota",
      "slug": "north-dakota",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/north-dakota",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-03",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 10.8,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.5,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.95,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.025,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "North Dakota requires net metering but lets utilities credit excess generation at avoided cost, and the state's cheap power makes payback slow.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Xcel Energy",
        "Otter Tail Power",
        "Montana-Dakota Utilities",
        "Cass County Electric Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23600,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10512,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1135,
        "paybackYears": 20.8
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "OH",
      "name": "Ohio",
      "slug": "ohio",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/ohio",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-17",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 15.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.1,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.8,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.029,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Ohio nets consumption and generation monthly but pays only the generation portion of the rate for exports, and the state's SREC prices are low.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "AEP Ohio",
        "FirstEnergy",
        "Duke Energy Ohio",
        "AES Ohio"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22400,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9578,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1485,
        "paybackYears": 15.1
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "OK",
      "name": "Oklahoma",
      "slug": "oklahoma",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/oklahoma",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-08",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 12,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5.1,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.7,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.027,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Oklahoma allows net metering but does not require utilities to pay for excess generation at all, so systems should be sized to on-site use.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Oklahoma Gas & Electric",
        "Public Service Company of Oklahoma",
        "Western Farmers Electric Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 21600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 21600,
        "annualProductionKwh": 11914,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1430,
        "paybackYears": 15.1
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "OR",
      "name": "Oregon",
      "slug": "oregon",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/oregon",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-17",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 13.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.8,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program",
        "summary": "ODOE rebate paid through an approved contractor, larger for low- and moderate-income households, and limited by an annual budget that runs out.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 1500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": true
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Oregon has retail-rate net metering at PGE and Pacific Power, with unused credits donated to low-income assistance at the annual true-up.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Portland General Electric",
        "Pacific Power",
        "Eugene Water & Electric Board",
        "Central Lincoln PUD"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 1500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20900,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9344,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1261,
        "paybackYears": 16.6
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "PA",
      "name": "Pennsylvania",
      "slug": "pennsylvania",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/pennsylvania",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-24",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 18,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.1,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.8,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Pennsylvania SREC market",
        "summary": "Every megawatt-hour earns a tradable SREC; prices are modest compared with neighbouring states but add up over the first decade.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 1500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Pennsylvania requires full retail net metering with an annual price-to-compare true-up, one of the cleaner rules in the region.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "PECO",
        "PPL Electric Utilities",
        "Duquesne Light",
        "Met-Ed"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 1500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20900,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9578,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1724,
        "paybackYears": 12.1
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "RI",
      "name": "Rhode Island",
      "slug": "rhode-island",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/rhode-island",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-22",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 27.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.3,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.2,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.033,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Renewable Energy Fund residential grant",
        "summary": "Commerce RI pays a per-watt grant for owner-occupied homes, capped per project and limited by funding rounds.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 2500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": true
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Rhode Island offers net metering or the Renewable Energy Growth performance tariff, and homeowners pick whichever pencils better.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Rhode Island Energy",
        "Pascoag Utility District",
        "Block Island Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 25600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 2500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23100,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10045,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2762,
        "paybackYears": 8.4
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "SC",
      "name": "South Carolina",
      "slug": "south-carolina",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/south-carolina",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-15",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 14.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.8,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.65,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.029,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "South Carolina Solar Energy Tax Credit",
        "summary": "State income tax credit of 25% of cost, limited to $3,500 or half your tax liability per year and carried forward up to ten years.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 3500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "South Carolina replaced legacy net metering with the Solar Choice tariff, which adds time-of-use pricing and a small monthly charge.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Dominion Energy South Carolina",
        "Duke Energy Progress",
        "Santee Cooper",
        "Berkeley Electric Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 21200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 3500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 17700,
        "annualProductionKwh": 11213,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1626,
        "paybackYears": 10.9
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "SD",
      "name": "South Dakota",
      "slug": "south-dakota",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/south-dakota",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-03",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 12.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.7,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.9,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.026,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "South Dakota has no statewide net metering mandate at all; whether exports are credited is entirely up to each utility.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Xcel Energy",
        "Black Hills Energy",
        "NorthWestern Energy",
        "East River Electric"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23200,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10979,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1372,
        "paybackYears": 16.9
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "TN",
      "name": "Tennessee",
      "slug": "tennessee",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/tennessee",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-12",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 13,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.7,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Tennessee has no net metering law; TVA's Dispersed Power Production program buys exports at a wholesale-linked rate, so self-consumption is the whole game.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Tennessee Valley Authority",
        "Nashville Electric Service",
        "Memphis Light Gas & Water",
        "Knoxville Utilities Board"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 21600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 21600,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10278,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1336,
        "paybackYears": 16.2
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "TX",
      "name": "Texas",
      "slug": "texas",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/texas",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-27",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 15,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5.1,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.55,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Texas has no statewide net metering rule; in the deregulated market you choose a retail plan with a solar buyback, and the terms vary wildly between providers.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Oncor",
        "CenterPoint Energy",
        "AEP Texas",
        "Austin Energy"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 20400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20400,
        "annualProductionKwh": 11914,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1787,
        "paybackYears": 11.4
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "UT",
      "name": "Utah",
      "slug": "utah",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/utah",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-10",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 11.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5.4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.55,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.027,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Utah closed net metering to new customers in 2017; Rocky Mountain Power now pays an export credit worth roughly a third of the retail rate.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Rocky Mountain Power",
        "Provo City Power",
        "Murray City Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 20400,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 20400,
        "annualProductionKwh": 12614,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1451,
        "paybackYears": 14.1
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "VT",
      "name": "Vermont",
      "slug": "vermont",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/vermont",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-21",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 21.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3.2,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Vermont has one of the country's strongest net metering programs, paying retail plus a small adder for systems that keep their renewable credits with the utility.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Green Mountain Power",
        "Vermont Electric Cooperative",
        "Burlington Electric Department"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 25600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 25600,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9344,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 2009,
        "paybackYears": 12.7
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "VA",
      "name": "Virginia",
      "slug": "virginia",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/virginia",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-16",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 14.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.5,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.7,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.029,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Virginia has retail-rate net metering under the Clean Economy Act, with a standby charge that applies only to larger residential systems.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Dominion Energy Virginia",
        "Appalachian Power",
        "Rappahannock Electric Cooperative",
        "Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 21600,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 21600,
        "annualProductionKwh": 10512,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1524,
        "paybackYears": 14.2
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "WA",
      "name": "Washington",
      "slug": "washington",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/washington",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-18",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 11.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 3.7,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.9,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.028,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Washington guarantees retail-rate net metering through at least 2029, and solar equipment is exempt from state sales tax.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Puget Sound Energy",
        "Seattle City Light",
        "Avista Utilities",
        "Snohomish County PUD"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23200,
        "annualProductionKwh": 8643,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 994,
        "paybackYears": 23.3
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "WV",
      "name": "West Virginia",
      "slug": "west-virginia",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/west-virginia",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-16",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 14.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.1,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.85,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "West Virginia requires net metering at investor-owned utilities with credits carried forward, though the PSC has allowed separate solar rate classes.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Appalachian Power",
        "Mon Power",
        "Wheeling Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 22800,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 22800,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9578,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1389,
        "paybackYears": 16.4
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "WI",
      "name": "Wisconsin",
      "slug": "wisconsin",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/wisconsin",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-11",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 17,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 4.2,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 3,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.03,
      "stateIncentive": {
        "name": "Focus on Energy solar rebate",
        "summary": "Statewide efficiency program pays a flat residential solar incentive, with a larger amount for qualifying rural and income-eligible homes.",
        "estimatedValueUsd": 500,
        "endsOn": null,
        "budgetLimited": false
      },
      "netMeteringRule": "Wisconsin has no statewide net metering statute; each utility files its own buyback tariff, and several credit exports below retail.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "We Energies",
        "Alliant Energy",
        "Madison Gas & Electric",
        "Xcel Energy"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 24000,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 500,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23500,
        "annualProductionKwh": 9811,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1668,
        "paybackYears": 14.1
      }
    },
    {
      "code": "WY",
      "name": "Wyoming",
      "slug": "wyoming",
      "page": "https://killmyenergybill.com/solar-panel-cost/wyoming",
      "reviewed": "2026-08-04",
      "residentialRateCentsPerKwh": 11.5,
      "peakSunHoursPerDay": 5.3,
      "installedCostPerWattUsd": 2.9,
      "annualRateEscalation": 0.026,
      "stateIncentive": null,
      "netMeteringRule": "Wyoming requires net metering for systems up to 25 kW, but annual excess is bought at avoided cost and the state's low rates stretch payback.",
      "majorUtilities": [
        "Rocky Mountain Power",
        "Black Hills Energy",
        "High Plains Power"
      ],
      "modelled": {
        "systemKw": 8,
        "panels": 20,
        "grossCostUsd": 23200,
        "stateIncentiveUsd": 0,
        "federalCreditUsd": 0,
        "netCostUsd": 23200,
        "annualProductionKwh": 12381,
        "firstYearSavingsUsd": 1424,
        "paybackYears": 16.3
      }
    }
  ]
}