Solar Panel Costs in 2026 : It''s Usually Worth It
Solar panels cost an average of $3.03 per watt, but costs can vary with location, your installer, and how you pay.
As of publishing, the average cost per watt is $2.84. Most solar companies set the price according to the solar system's wattage. A solar installation's “cost per watt” is a little like the “price per square foot” when you buy a house. It helps compare the value of solar energy systems in different sizes.
Solar panels themselves represent only 12-18% of total system cost, typically $0.30-$0.50 per watt. Premium monocrystalline panels offer 20-22% efficiency but cost more than standard panels with 18-20% efficiency. Panel type significantly impacts both cost and performance:
Commercial solar installations are a great way for companies to lower energy costs. Generally, installing solar panels on businesses costs a bit less per watt because the systems are larger, but the total costs will be higher. In 2025, the average cost for commercial solar panels is just about $2.00 per watt.
Your state's averages matter more than national numbers, and factors like shading, roof complexity, and local incentive programs all play a role in your final price. The average cost of a 12 kW solar panel installation on EnergySage is $29,649 before available incentives.
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