Prices are compiled from three sources: Nemet (2009) for 1975-2003, Farmer & Lafond (2016) for 2004-2009, and IRENA for 2010 onward. Due to limited data availability, we use the Global Price Index series reported by IRENA, based on pvXchange benchmark prices for modules sold in Europe. . As of 2026, the average cost of residential solar panels in the U. is between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. This typically translates to about $2. 50 per watt of installed capacity (more on price per watt below). The total price depends on your system size, location, roof type. . Solar panels can lower your electricity bill by 75% or more, but the upfront investment is significant. Why trust EnergySage? If you've been putting off solar because of sticker shock, this might change your mind: Most homeowners save $37,000 to $154,000 over 25. . NLR analyzes the total costs associated with installing photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential rooftop, commercial rooftop, and utility-scale ground-mount systems. NLR's PV cost benchmarking work uses a bottom-up. .