Colorado Solar Calculator — 2026 Costs & Payback
Colorado offers full retail-rate net metering through Xcel Energy (most of the state), sales and property tax exemptions, and 1,580 kWh/kW production at altitude. Payback typically 9–11 years — solid but not exceptional, given moderate electricity rates.
US Solar Payback Calculator — 2026
Get an accurate solar payback estimate for your state using NREL solar irradiance, EIA electricity rates, and the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit.
The numbers above are based on state averages. Real quotes vary by roof orientation, shading, panel type, and installer. Compare quotes from 3+ pre-vetted installers in your area — free, no obligation.
Highest electricity rates in the lower 48. NEM 3.0 (since April 2023) cuts export rates ~75%. Battery storage now near-mandatory for payback.
Methodology & sources
Solar irradiance per state: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) PVWatts PSM3 typical-year data, weighted state average for residential rooftops.
Electricity rates: EIA Form 826 monthly residential rates (most recent September 2025 data).
Federal ITC: 30% through 2032 under the Inflation Reduction Act (Section 25D).
State incentives: DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency) as of April 2026.
Inflation assumptions: 2.5% annual electricity price increase (EIA AEO 2024 reference case), 0.5% annual panel degradation (NREL standard).
Self-consumption assumption: 45% direct self-consumption without battery — typical for residential without storage.
Deep dive — solar in Colorado
Sales tax exemption: 100% on solar equipment.
Property tax exemption: 100% — the added home value from solar is excluded from property tax assessment.
No state income tax credit for residential solar (commercial credits exist).
Black Hills Energy (southern CO): Net metering at retail rate but slower interconnection.
Colorado solar FAQ
Does Xcel Energy offer net metering in Colorado?
Yes — full retail-rate net metering for residential systems up to 120% of average annual usage. Excess credits roll forward indefinitely.
Are solar panels tax-exempt in Colorado?
Yes — both sales tax and property tax. Solar equipment is 100% sales-tax exempt and the added home value is excluded from property tax assessment.
Is there a Colorado state solar tax credit for residential systems?
No state credit for residential solar. Commercial systems have separate incentives.
How much does solar cost in Colorado 2026?
Average $2.85/W installed. An 8 kW system: $22,800 gross, $15,960 after 30% federal ITC.