In Connecticut, a 7-kW system for an average home costs about $18,867 after incentives in 2026, saves about $1,961 in the first year and pays back in 8.4 years.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Solar, 7.04 kW × $2.68/W | $18,867 |
| Federal credit (0%) | $0 |
| Net cost | $18,867 |
| Scenario | Net cost | Year-1 savings | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State averages (above) | $18,867 | $1,961 | 8.4 yr | $55,510 |
| Rates rise 5.6%/yr (2020–25 pace) | $18,867 | $1,961 | 7.7 yr | $89,294 |
| Rates stay flat | $18,867 | $1,961 | 9.6 yr | $29,710 |
| Survey price $3.3/W (LBNL) | $23,232 | $1,961 | 10.1 yr | $51,145 |
| Add 13.5-kWh battery | $34,433 | $1,961 | 13.9 yr | $39,945 |
| Exports cut to 50% of retail | $12,971 | $936 | 11.7 yr | $21,530 |
Verdict: at average Connecticut numbers, solar is a solid investment in 2026 — payback takes 8.4 years, leaving you $55,510 ahead after 25 years. The main reasons: electricity that costs more than in all but 6 states; weak sun (the 9th-lowest yield of 51); 1:1 net metering, which credits every exported kWh at the full retail price. Pay cash if you can: Berkeley Lab found loan-financed systems priced about $1.50/W above cash installs in 2025, which can add years to the payback.
Net metering and exports in Connecticut: Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (RRES, <=25 kW): Netting Tariff (credits roll indefinitely) or Buy-All Tariff $0.3289/kWh fixed 20 yrs; enrollments after 2026-01-01 pay a 4.02¢/kWh charge on all production.
Battery: a 13.5-kWh battery at the Connecticut average of $1,153/kWh adds $15,566 and saves almost nothing extra under 1:1 net metering — buy it for backup, not payback; payback becomes 13.9 years.
EnergySage's Connecticut page lists a 9.8-year payback. Its method is not fully published; ours uses EIA's Jan–Aug 2026 price, 1:1 net metering, 3%/yr rate growth and 0.5%/yr panel aging, with no federal credit.
The full method, material data and tips are on the main solar payback calculator page.