Free solar calculator

Solar Payback Calculator

Compare cash and finance scenarios to see when solar may recover its cost.

Compare your solar payback

Model a cash purchase or financed system.

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✓ Cashflow calculated in your browser
Your payback estimate will appear hereEnter system cost and annual benefit.

Your payback estimate

Cashflow over 25 years.

Cash purchase
Estimated payback
7.9 years
Cumulative net savings recover the upfront cost
Net system cost
£6,500
Finance cost
£0
Year 1 net benefit
£750
10-year net position
£1,675
25-year net benefit
£15,000
25-year ROI
231%

Understand the difference between payback and ROI

Payback tells you when the original cost is recovered. ROI shows the total return relative to the money invested.

Cash purchase

Payback starts with the full net system cost paid upfront.

Financed purchase

The model includes deposit, interest and loan payments in the cashflow.

Long-term view

Growth in electricity value and panel degradation are applied annually.

Solar payback FAQs

What is solar payback period?

The time required for cumulative net solar benefits to recover the total cost paid.

Does financing change payback?

Yes. Interest and payment timing can change cashflow and total cost.

Is a shorter payback always better?

A shorter payback is attractive, but equipment quality, warranty, roof condition and installer design also matter.