Every solar company promises savings — but what do the real numbers look like for homeowners in Florida, Texas, Arizona, Michigan, New Mexico, Oregon, and Illinois in 2026? Get the facts here.
You've probably seen the ads: "Save thousands with solar!" But when you dig deeper, it's hard to find real, specific numbers. That's because solar savings depend on your location, utility rates, roof conditions, and energy usage.
In this guide, we're pulling back the curtain. You'll see actual estimated savings for homeowners in each state we serve — Florida, Texas, Arizona, Michigan, New Mexico, Oregon, and Illinois — based on current utility rates and typical energy consumption.
Understanding how solar savings work helps you evaluate any claim. Here's what determines your actual savings:
The percentage of your energy use that solar powers. Most systems offset 60-100% of your usage. The more you offset, the more you save.
What you pay per kWh determines solar's value. Higher rates = bigger savings. States like California, Hawaii, and parts of Texas have the highest rates.
Larger systems produce more energy but cost more. The sweet spot offsets 100% of your usage without overproducing.
Most states credit you for excess energy sent to the grid. Better net metering policies = better savings. Rates vary by utility and state.
Here's what typical homeowners in each state can expect to save annually with a properly sized solar system:
| State | Avg. Electric Bill | Annual Savings | 25-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🌴 Florida | $175 - $225 | $2,100 - $2,700 | $52,500 - $67,500 |
| 🤠Texas | $165 - $215 | $1,980 - $2,580 | $49,500 - $64,500 |
| 🌵 Arizona | $180 - $240 | $2,160 - $2,880 | $54,000 - $72,000 |
| 🌲 Michigan | $140 - $180 | $1,680 - $2,160 | $42,000 - $54,000 |
| 🌞 New Mexico | $150 - $190 | $1,800 - $2,280 | $45,000 - $57,000 |
| 🌿 Oregon | $130 - $170 | $1,560 - $2,040 | $39,000 - $51,000 |
| 🌽 Illinois | $135 - $175 | $1,620 - $2,100 | $40,500 - $52,500 |
*Estimates based on typical 2,000 sq ft home with 10kW solar system. Actual savings vary based on energy usage, roof conditions, utility rates, and net metering policies.
The payback period is how long until your cumulative savings equal what you paid for the system. Here's the breakdown by state:
6-8 yrs
🌵 Arizona
Best ROI — high sun + high rates
7-9 yrs
🌴 Florida
High usage + strong net metering
7-10 yrs
🌞 New Mexico
Excellent sun, good rates
8-10 yrs
🤠Texas
Variable rates, large systems
9-12 yrs
🌲 Michigan
Lower rates, but good incentives
9-12 yrs
🌽 Illinois
Strong state incentives help
10-13 yrs
🌿 Oregon
Lower rates, but incentives available
After payback: Every year after is pure savings! With a 25-30 year panel lifespan, that's 15-20+ years of free electricity.
The numbers above are estimates. Your actual savings depend on several factors unique to your home:
South-facing roofs get maximum production. East/west works too, just with slightly less output. Flat roofs may need tilted racking.
Trees, buildings, or chimneys that cast shade on your panels significantly reduce production. Even partial shading impacts output.
Higher usage = more savings potential. A 3,000 sq ft home with two EVs will save significantly more than a 1,500 sq ft condo.
Net metering policies vary by utility. Some credit you at full retail rates, others at less. This dramatically affects your bottom line.
Bigger systems produce more but cost more. The goal is to size correctly to your usage without significant overproduction.
Adding a battery like Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery can significantly boost your savings — especially in states with time-of-use billing:
Many utilities charge higher rates during peak hours (typically 4-9 PM). With a battery, you use stored solar energy during expensive peak times instead of buying from the grid.
Additional savings: $300-$600/year
When the grid goes down, your battery keeps your lights on. No food spoilage, no disrupted work, no hotel stays — especially valuable in hurricane-prone areas.
Value: $500-$2,000+/year (peace of mind)
Without a battery, excess solar goes to the grid. With a battery, store it and use 100% of your production — maximizing every dollar of solar you generate.
Additional savings: $200-$400/year
The 30% federal tax credit applies to battery storage systems too! This makes adding a battery more affordable than ever.
30% credit on battery cost
Combined with solar, adding a battery can increase your annual savings by $500-$1,000+ per year
We don't just help you get solar — we make sure you get the maximum savings possible by shopping every major solar company in your area.
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