How Much Do Solar Panels Cost? (Jan 2026)
Solar panels generate “free” electricity, but installing a system still costs money. A typical American household needs a 10-kilowatt (kW)
One of the biggest cost factors for your solar panel installation is the size of the system you have installed. System size is measured in kilowatts (kW) and is determined by household energy consumption. The average cost per watt is $3.04, but larger systems often have a lower cost per watt.
The average 6-kW residential solar panel installation is $17,852 before incentives. Learn about cost factors, financing options, tax breaks and more.
According to studies by the U.S. Department of Energy, the all-in cost of a home solar panel system is between $2.74 to $3.30 per watt. 1,2,12 This figure includes the solar panels, the installation, and other expenses. Using these numbers, an average-sized 8-kilowatt residential solar system would cost between $21,900 – $26,400.
Mounting system: This is what holds rooftop solar panels in place. Costs vary depending on the type of solar installation, but it generally costs between 7 and 20 cents per watt. Electrical wiring and hardware: This includes the wiring, switches and circuit breakers required to connect the solar panel system to your home's electrical system.
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