In Wisconsin, a 4.4-kW system for an average home costs about $13,420 after incentives in 2026, saves about $785 in the first year and pays back in 14.4 years.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Solar, 4.4 kW × $3.05/W | $13,420 |
| Federal credit (0%) | $0 |
| Net cost | $13,420 |
| Scenario | Net cost | Year-1 savings | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State averages (above) | $13,420 | $785 | 14.4 yr | $13,344 |
| Rates rise 5.6%/yr (2020–25 pace) | $13,420 | $785 | 12.6 yr | $24,164 |
| Rates stay flat | $13,420 | $785 | 17.8 yr | $5,073 |
| Survey price $3.9/W (LBNL) | $17,160 | $785 | 17.7 yr | $9,604 |
| Add 13.5-kWh battery | $31,092 | $1,054 | 22.4 yr | $4,848 |
| Size to 100% of use instead | $18,788 | $1,099 | 14.4 yr | $18,681 |
Verdict: at average Wisconsin numbers, solar is a marginal investment in 2026 — payback takes 14.4 years, leaving you $13,344 ahead after 25 years. The main reasons: export credits below retail (exports earn ~50% of retail), so only the solar you use yourself earns full value. 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 Wisconsin: Utility-specific: Xcel credits at retail; We Energies, Alliant, WPS pay avoided cost; MGE lower buyback once a net seller.
Battery: a 13.5-kWh battery at the Wisconsin average of $1,309/kWh adds $17,672 and shifts about 3,179 kWh a year from low-paid exports to your own use; payback becomes 22.4 years.
EnergySage's Wisconsin page lists a 12.9-year payback. Its method is not fully published; ours uses EIA's Jan–Aug 2026 price, 40% self-use and the state's export credit, 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.