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Free tool · updated June 2026

Solar savings calculator

Estimate what solar could save you. Pick your region, system size and how much power you use during the day for an indicative annual saving and payback period — then compare real quotes.

The more you use while the sun shines, the more you save (grid power costs far more than the export rate).

Indicative annual saving

$1,419 /year

Estimated payback

~7.0 years

~6,955 kWh/yr
~$10,000 to install
Get real quotes for my roof →

Indicative estimate only — not a quote. Based on EECA's ~$2,000/kW installed benchmark, a regional generation yield (PVGIS-based), grid power at about 33c/kWh and an export buyback of about 12c/kWh (as at June 2026). Your actual figures depend on your roof, shading, usage pattern, retailer rate and the system you choose. Always confirm with a qualified installer.

How the calculator works

We estimate your system's annual generation from a region-specific yield (kWh per kW installed, PVGIS-based), then split it into the power you use yourself — valued at the grid price you avoid (~33c/kWh) — and the surplus you export, valued at a typical buyback rate (~12c/kWh). Install cost uses EECA's benchmark of around $2,000 per kW. Payback is the install cost divided by the estimated annual saving.

Calculator FAQs

How accurate is this solar calculator?+
It gives an indicative estimate, not a quote. It uses EECA's ~$2,000/kW installed benchmark, a region-specific generation yield, grid power at about 33c/kWh and an export buyback of about 12c/kWh. Your real numbers depend on your roof, shading, daytime usage, retailer rate and the exact system — a quote from an installer will be more precise.
Why does "power used during the day" matter so much?+
Because grid power costs far more than the rate you earn exporting surplus. Every unit you use yourself saves you the full grid price (~33c/kWh); every unit you export earns only the buyback rate (~12c/kWh). Shifting hot water, laundry, dishwasher and EV charging to daylight hours significantly improves your return.
Does the calculator include a battery?+
No — it models panels only, which EECA notes generally gives the best financial return today. A battery adds cost and usually lengthens payback, though it can be worth it for backup power. See our solar batteries guide for more.

Sources

Figures on this page are indicative guidance, not a quote. Verified as at June 2026 — always confirm current pricing and rates with your installer or retailer.