Solar comparison
Solar ROI by State
Compare solar ROI by state using electricity rates, system cost ranges, payback periods, incentives, net metering, and battery strategy.
Quick answer
What this comparison means
Solar ROI is usually strongest where electricity rates are high and incentives or net-metering credits lower net cost. California, Massachusetts, New York, and New Jersey can produce fast payback despite higher installation prices. Texas, Arizona, Florida, and Colorado depend more on utility plan, self-consumption, roof quality, and local incentives.
Comparison table
| Factor | Option A | Option B | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $0.33/kWh | 5-8 years | California modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| Texas | $0.16/kWh | 8-12 years | Texas modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| Florida | $0.15/kWh | 8-12 years | Florida modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| Arizona | $0.16/kWh | 7-9 years | Arizona modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| New York | $0.29/kWh | 6-9 years | New York modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| Massachusetts | $0.30/kWh | 6-9 years | Massachusetts modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| New Jersey | $0.23/kWh | 6-8 years | New Jersey modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| Colorado | $0.17/kWh | 8-10 years | Colorado modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| Nevada | $0.14/kWh | 7-9 years | Nevada modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
| Rhode Island | $0.3/kWh | 7-9 years | Rhode Island modeled with local cost, incentive, and net-metering caveats. |
Data Sources
This comparison uses state electricity-rate ranges, local incentive context, net-metering rules, and solar production assumptions informed by NREL PVWatts-style modeling. Final quotes, utility tariffs, and interconnection rules can materially change the economics.
Assumptions
Payback and ROI are directional estimates, not financial advice. They assume typical residential roof conditions, stable household usage, currently available incentives, and separate treatment of battery backup value, financing costs, and installer-specific add-ons.