Cost $2,400Adds $2,400
Your estimate
Cost
$25,000
Adds at resale
$15,000
Recouped
60%
National planning figure: $25,000 cost, 60% recouped. Ranked #18 of 27 projects by ROI.
Owned rooftop solar lowers electricity bills and, according to research from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Zillow, homes with owned solar have sold at a premium in many markets. Leased systems are different: the buyer has to take over the lease.
Why it scores where it does
- Owned systems transfer with the house and cut bills.
- Leased or financed systems require buyer approval and can slow closings.
- Value depends on local electricity rates and net-metering rules.
Get the most from it
- Buy rather than lease if resale matters.
- Keep production records and warranties for buyers.
- Replace an aging roof before installing panels.
Solar panel system ROI by region
| Region | Cost | Value added | % recouped | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific | $30,000 | $19,200 | 64% | |
| Mountain | $25,000 | $15,900 | 64% | |
| South Atlantic | $23,750 | $14,400 | 61% | |
| New England | $28,000 | $16,500 | 59% | |
| West South Central | $23,000 | $13,050 | 57% | |
| East South Central | $22,500 | $12,600 | 56% | |
| Middle Atlantic | $27,500 | $15,300 | 56% | |
| West North Central | $24,500 | $13,200 | 54% | |
| East North Central | $24,750 | $12,900 | 52% |
Frequently asked questions
Do solar panels increase home value?
Owned systems usually do, with premiums varying by state and electricity prices. The figure here is a conservative planning estimate before tax credits.
What about leased solar panels?
A lease must be transferred to the buyer or bought out, which some buyers and lenders dislike. It rarely adds value and can reduce offers.
Related projects
Cost $18,000Adds $12,240