In Maryland, a 8.8-kW system for an average home costs about $22,528 after incentives in 2026, saves about $2,414 in the first year and pays back in 8.4 years.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Solar, 8.8 kW × $2.56/W | $22,528 |
| Federal credit (0%) | $0 |
| Net cost | $22,528 |
| Scenario | Net cost | Year-1 savings | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State averages (above) | $22,528 | $2,414 | 8.4 yr | $60,663 |
| Rates rise 5.6%/yr (2020–25 pace) | $22,528 | $2,414 | 7.8 yr | $94,314 |
| Rates stay flat | $22,528 | $2,414 | 9.4 yr | $34,940 |
| Survey price $4/W (LBNL) | $35,200 | $2,414 | 12.5 yr | $47,991 |
| Add 13.5-kWh battery | $40,632 | $2,414 | 14.1 yr | $42,560 |
| Exports cut to 50% of retail | $15,770 | $1,196 | 11.5 yr | $25,017 |
Verdict: at average Maryland numbers, solar is a solid investment in 2026 — payback takes 8.4 years, leaving you $60,663 ahead after 25 years. The main reasons: 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 Maryland: Retail net metering, but closes to new customers 2027-07-01 (successor expected to pay less).
Battery: a 13.5-kWh battery at the Maryland average of $1,341/kWh adds $18,104 and saves almost nothing extra under 1:1 net metering — buy it for backup, not payback; payback becomes 14.1 years.
EnergySage's Maryland page lists a 9-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.