In North Dakota, a 10.1-kW system for an average home costs about $26,008 after incentives in 2026, saves about $1,600 in the first year and pays back in 13.5 years.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Solar, 10.12 kW × $2.57/W | $26,008 |
| Federal credit (0%) | $0 |
| Net cost | $26,008 |
| Scenario | Net cost | Year-1 savings | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State averages (above) | $26,008 | $1,600 | 13.5 yr | $30,582 |
| Rates rise 5.6%/yr (2020–25 pace) | $26,008 | $1,600 | 11.9 yr | $53,583 |
| Rates stay flat | $26,008 | $1,600 | 16.4 yr | $13,007 |
| Survey price $3.6/W (LBNL) | $36,432 | $1,600 | 17.8 yr | $20,158 |
| Add 13.5-kWh battery | $38,428 | $1,600 | 18.6 yr | $18,162 |
| Exports cut to 50% of retail | $18,093 | $814 | 17.9 yr | $9,644 |
Verdict: at average North Dakota numbers, solar is a marginal investment in 2026 — payback takes 13.5 years, leaving you $30,582 ahead after 25 years. The main reasons: cheap power (the lowest price of 51), which caps what each kWh saves. Get at least three quotes: every $0.25/W you shave off the price moves payback by roughly a year or more here.
Net metering and exports in North Dakota: Not verified for this page — check your utility's net metering or export-credit tariff before you sign. The calculator assumes 1:1 kWh net metering (the best case).
Battery: a 13.5-kWh battery at the North Dakota average of $920/kWh adds $12,420 and saves almost nothing extra under 1:1 net metering — buy it for backup, not payback; payback becomes 18.6 years.
Lease or PPA instead? The owner can still claim the 30% 48E credit if construction began by July 4, 2026 or the system is in service by Dec 31, 2027 — ask whether that discount is in the monthly price.
The full method, material data and tips are on the main solar payback calculator page.