In West Virginia, a 10.6-kW system for an average home costs about $30,624 after incentives in 2026, saves about $2,006 in the first year and pays back in 12.9 years.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Solar, 10.56 kW × $2.9/W | $30,624 |
| Federal credit (0%) | $0 |
| Net cost | $30,624 |
| Scenario | Net cost | Year-1 savings | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State averages (above) | $30,624 | $2,006 | 12.9 yr | $39,605 |
| Rates rise 5.6%/yr (2020–25 pace) | $30,624 | $2,006 | 11.4 yr | $68,076 |
| Rates stay flat | $30,624 | $2,006 | 15.5 yr | $17,845 |
| Survey price $3.6/W (LBNL) | $38,016 | $2,006 | 15.4 yr | $32,213 |
| Add 13.5-kWh battery | $38,427 | $2,006 | 15.5 yr | $31,802 |
| Exports cut to 50% of retail | $21,692 | $1,025 | 17.2 yr | $13,238 |
Verdict: at average West Virginia numbers, solar is a marginal investment in 2026 — payback takes 12.9 years, leaving you $39,605 ahead after 25 years. The main reasons: weak sun (the 5th-lowest yield of 51). 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 West Virginia: 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 West Virginia average of $578/kWh adds $7,803 and saves almost nothing extra under 1:1 net metering — buy it for backup, not payback; payback becomes 15.5 years.
EnergySage's West Virginia page lists a 13.6-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.