Americans aren’t just going solar; they’re hedging against geopolitical and utility uncertainty.

According to new EnergySage data, quote requests for solar paired with battery storage jumped 21% in just 23 days, a sharp reversal after demand cooled earlier this year when federal tax credits expired. 

That kind of spike doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s a response to a growing sense that the energy system—both in the U.S. and globally—is becoming less predictable. Between geopolitical tensions (namely with Iran), rising electricity demand, grid reliability concerns, and more frequent extreme weather events, homeowners are increasingly seeing solar-plus-storage—residential energy systems that pair solar panels with battery energy storage—as less of a “nice-to-have” upgrade and more of a practical way to control their energy costs and keep the lights on. 

For a growing number of homeowners, waiting to enhance their energy independence is starting to feel like the bigger risk. Americans aren’t just window-shopping for solar anymore—they’re acting on it, and quickly.

Key takeaways

Looming energy crisis sparks demand jump for solar and storage

Demand for solar-plus-storage systems increased 21% in March 2026 on EnergySage—a meaningful jump in just a few weeks. What stands out even more is the timing: Interest had softened earlier this year after federal tax credits expired at the end of 2025.

So what changed?

Part of the answer lies in rising geopolitical tension—particularly the escalating conflict involving Iran. A key flashpoint is the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow shipping route that carries roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply. Following recent U.S. strikes, Iran moved to restrict passage through the strait, tightening global supply and pushing oil and gas prices higher almost immediately.

That kind of volatility shows up in utility bills, fuel costs, and broader economic uncertainty. Fossil fuels, which still power most homes, are tied to global supply chains and geopolitical dynamics. When those systems get disrupted, prices follow. And homeowners are paying closer attention to the risks baked into the current energy system.

Installing solar alone can lower electricity bills, but adding a battery is what protects homeowners when the grid fails. Solar-plus-storage systems insulate homeowners from the volatility of geopolitically dependent fossil fuels. Instead of being fully exposed to market swings through utility bills, they can generate and store their own electricity, cutting reliance on the grid and bringing more predictability to an otherwise volatile energy system.

The conflict in Iran isn’t the only thing driving people to go solar

Geopolitics might be the spark, but it’s not the whole story. Several longer-term trends are pushing homeowners in the same direction.

Extreme weather events

Between wildfires, hurricanes, and winter storms, outages are becoming more common and more disruptive. These events not only threaten power reliability but also drive up electricity prices as utility companies scramble to reinforce damaged infrastructure and meet demand. While solar panels can reduce your bill, they won’t power your home during an outage without a battery.

Utility rate hikes  

Electricity demand is rising rapidly, and a major driver is the explosion of data centers and AI infrastructure. These facilities require massive, always-on power, and that surge in demand is putting new strain on the grid—while also pushing electricity prices higher. As utilities invest to keep up and manage tighter supply, those costs are increasingly being passed on to customers through higher rates.

Aging grid infrastructure

Much of the U.S. grid was built decades ago and wasn’t designed for today’s electricity demand levels. As homes, businesses, and new technologies draw more power, utilities face mounting pressure to upgrade aging equipment. That strain can drive higher rates as maintenance and expansion costs are passed on to customers—and can also increase the risk of outages. For homeowners, this makes solar paired with battery storage more appealing, offering both cost protection and reliable power when the grid is stretched.

Solar-plus-storage is a form of energy independence

All of this is changing how people think about energy. Solar used to be mostly about savings. Now, when you pair it with a battery, it becomes a way to take control. You can store excess power, use it when electricity is most expensive, and keep your home running when the grid goes down.

More homeowners are realizing that solar-plus-storage isn’t just a clean energy upgrade—it’s a hedge, a backup plan, and a long-term play for stability in a system that’s starting to feel anything but stable.

For years, going solar meant owning a home, hiring an installer, and committing to a system that costs tens of thousands of dollars. If you rented or didn't have the right roof, you were largely out of luck.

That's starting to change with the rise of plug-in solar.

The emerging category of small, portable solar systems—typically called plug-in solar, balcony solar, or plug-and-play solar—lets anyone with a sunny balcony, patio, or yard generate their own electricity. All you have to do is plug in a panel or two directly into a standard wall outlet. No installer. No permits. No roof required.

The concept has been popular in Europe for years and is finally gaining traction in the U.S. Utah legalized it in 2025; Maine followed in April 2026; both chambers of the Virginia General Assembly have passed it (just waiting on the governor’s signature); and roughly 30 other states have introduced similar bills as of April 2026. 

So… is plug-in solar worth it? The answer depends entirely on your situation. Here's what you need to know.

Key takeaways

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What is plug-in solar, and how does it work?

Picture an extension cord connected to the sun. That's essentially what a plug-in solar panel system is.

The setup is straightforward: One to three lightweight solar panels attach to a balcony railing, patio fence, or ground mount. Each panel connects to a small microinverter, which converts the direct current (DC) electricity from the panels into the alternating current (AC) that your home uses. A cord runs from this setup to a standard 120V outdoor outlet. Once it's plugged in, the solar electricity flows directly into your home's circuit—immediately reducing the amount of power you pull from the grid.

Plug-in systems are sometimes called "balcony solar" because that's where they're typically set up in Europe—Germany alone has roughly four million balcony systems installed. The plug-and-play concept keeps the setup simple without the need for permits or professional installation.

How much can plug-in solar actually save you?

Unlike with rooftop solar, don’t expect to eliminate your electric bills with balcony solar. But, especially as electricity rates continue to rise nationwide, the savings are still meaningful—typically somewhere between $13 and $50 per month.

Balcony solar systems are typically just powerful enough to offset the baseline electricity that your "always-on" appliances consume around the clock. (Think: Your refrigerator, Wi-Fi router, and standby electronics). But it’s not powerful enough to shave significant dollars off your utility bill.

Most plug-in systems on the market fall between 400 and 800 watts (W). Depending on where you live and how much sun your panels receive, an 800 W system might produce somewhere between 70—110 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month. According to Enphase, a 1,200-square-foot apartment uses around 600 kWh per month, so if that’s you, your balcony production would offset roughly 12%—18% of your monthly usage.

At the national average electricity rate of roughly $0.18 per kWh, that works out to roughly $131–$20 per month in savings on the low end, and closer to $40–$50 per month in high-rate states like California, New York, or Hawaii, where electricity costs considerably more. Over the course of a year, a well-placed system in a sunny location could offset $150–$600 in electricity costs, depending on your local rate and sun hours.

What does that mean for your payback period?

A basic plug-in solar kit runs $500–$1,500, depending on wattage and whether it includes a battery. So, if your system leads to $300 annual savings, you'd break even in two to five years. Some sellers advertise a two-year payback period—that's achievable if you're in a high-rate state with good sun exposure, but it shouldn't be treated as the typical outcome.

How do savings compare to rooftop solar?

A full rooftop solar installation costs significantly more upfront—around $30,505 on average for a 12 kW system before any incentives—but you’re getting roughly 5-15 times more power. Because of that, a properly sized rooftop system will significantly reduce—or potentially eliminate—your electric bill entirely, not just trim it.

If you own your home, the long-term savings are substantial: Most homeowners who install rooftop solar save between $37,000 and $154,000 on electricity over your 25 year warranty, according to EnergySage Marketplace data. By comparison, a plug-in kit costing $500–$1,500 that saves $300–$600 per year in electricity costs would net you roughly $6,000–$14,500 over 25 years, after subtracting the upfront purchase price. (Though, you’d likely need to replace a plug-in system at least once within those 25 years, which would reduce the savings figure by another $500–$1,500.)

The table below breaks it down in a clearer comparison:

*Net of upfront system cost ($500–$1,500). Does not account for potential replacement costs over 25 years.

Balcony solar panels also don’t feed excess electricity back to the grid (no net metering), and don’t qualify for any state or local financial incentives, so you won’t be gaining any additional savings by going solar this way.

Plug-in solar is best when rooftop solar isn't an option. For renters, condo dwellers, or anyone without roof access, a $1,000 plug-in kit that saves $25 a month is definitely useful, and far better than nothing.

Is plug-in solar legal where you live?

To be clear, plug-in solar isn't explicitly illegal in most places, but in many states it exists in a regulatory gray area. A handful of states have now passed clear enabling legislation, and a wave of others are moving quickly.

The two states with explicit laws

Utah and Maine are the two states that have explicit laws legalizing balcony solar.

Utah became the first state in March 2025. The law creates a separate regulatory category for portable solar generation devices up to 1.2 kW, eliminates the requirement for utility approval before plugging in, and removes the interconnection fees (as long as the device carries a safety certification). Maine became the second state when its governor signed the plug-in solar bill in April 2026.

The states moving fast

As of April 2026, legislators in roughly 28 states and Washington, D.C. have at least introduced bills to permit plug-in solar, according to Canary Media—and some are very close to becoming law.

Passed both chambers:

• Colorado

• Maryland

• Virginia

Passed one chamber:

• Hawaii

• Massachusetts

• New Jersey

• New Hampshire

• Oklahoma

• Vermont

Under consideration:

• Alaska

• California

• Connecticut

• Delaware

• Iowa

• Michigan

• Minnesota

• Missouri

• New York

• Ohio

• Pennsylvania

• Rhode Island

• South Carolina

Deferred:

• Arizona

• Georgia

• Idaho

• Indiana

• New Mexico

• Oregon

• Washington

• Wyoming

The regulatory gray area

In states without enabling legislation, plug-in solar isn't necessarily banned, but utilities often treat even a single plug-in panel the same as a large rooftop array. That can mean interconnection applications, fees, and waits of weeks or months.

Now, most people who have quietly plugged in small systems in these states haven't faced enforcement action, but know that you’d be operating outside clearly defined rules. While the practical risk is low for small, certified systems, it's worth being honest about the ambiguity.

If you're a renter, check your lease before installing. If you're in an HOA, review your CC&Rs. These agreements can restrict exterior modifications even where state law doesn't.

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If you've ever killed a houseplant and quietly vowed to never try again, Nick Cutsumpas has a message for you: You were probably just trying too hard.

Cutsumpas—who goes by Farmer Nick online—has built a following of hundreds of thousands around a deceptively simple philosophy he calls “mindful neglect.” The idea? Back off a little. Trust the process. Let living things do what they're designed to do.

It turns out, the same logic applies to sustainable living.

"Pick one project and just dive into that," Cutsumpas said. "Do not try to tackle your appliances, solar, heating, all these things at once—because then it's going to feel quite overwhelming."

Coming from someone who has solar panels going up this spring, a greenhouse powered by mini-splits, energy-efficient appliances throughout his home, and a recently-planted orchard, that advice carries some weight. We sat down with Farmer Nick to learn how he went from a corporate salesperson to an environmental influencer, and to get his best advice for living a more environmentally conscious lifestyle without trying too hard.

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How houseplants became the ‘unsustainable’ gateway to sustainability

Cutsumpas didn't grow up with a green thumb. He actually grew up as an athlete and followed the expected path into corporate America, landing at IBM Watson in New York City. He quickly realized life in a cubicle wasn’t for him.

While living rent-free with his parents in White Plains, a nudge from his mom to start a backyard garden as contribution to the home sparked a passion that would later become his career. When Cutsumpas eventually moved to New York City and lost the garden, he did what he now laughs off as "the only rational thing": He bought 120 houseplants for his 600-square-foot apartment. He started sharing the journey on Instagram, gained thousands of followers, and even landed a few Netflix specials.

Cutsumpas is quick to point out a certain irony: houseplants, on their own, aren't sustainable. They don't grow food, they don’t offset your utility bills, and many are shipped from far away. But they’re an entry point.

"If I care about this plant on my desk, I need to care about the big plant we all live on," he said.

For Cutsumpas, that realization turned into a deeper curiosity about energy, appliances, building materials, and what it actually means to live sustainably. He’s seen that progression from his clients, too. People he helped fill their Manhattan apartments with plants later called him from their new suburban yards, ready to plant pollinator gardens or install solar panels.

"Seeing them take that next-level jump was really exciting," he said.

Today, he operates his garden and landscape design business out of a 10-acre homestead in Michigan—a deliberate move from Los Angeles, chosen for its climate resilience, access to fresh water, and fertile land. He’s mid-renovation on what he's determined to make the “greenest home in Michigan.”

Making ‘green’ feel normal, not preachy

One of Nick's deliberate choices as a public figure is in what he doesn't say—specifically, words like “climate” or “sustainability.”

"I've stopped saying a lot of those words when I can,” he explained. “I want to incentivize people to the benefits and not have a trigger word that has oftentimes been politicized in a negative way.”

His reframe is practical and effective. For example, he won’t boast to people about how his EV is better for the planet, but instead focuses on how it’s faster and cheaper to fuel. It's a strategy rooted in meeting people where they are, and it extends to how he talks about clean energy, too. When he discovered solar leasing through EnergySage (more on that in a moment), he didn't post about it as an environmental act. He shared it on his profile as a financial win that he had just learned about. Sharing his experience encouraged others to sign up.

“Just sharing it out there and seeing those things happen is so encouraging because it means people are willing to take that next level,” Cutsumpas said.

How solar leasing restored his renovation plans

Like many homeowners, Nick had been eyeing rooftop solar for a while. But the upfront cost of a solar energy system (typically $30,500 on average) kept it out of reach, especially while he’s managing a major home renovation.

When he heard the federal solar tax credit—a 30% credit that led to roughly $9,000 in savings—was being discontinued for 2026, he scrambled to get panels installed. Unfortunately, so did everyone else, and the rush of demand made moving quickly even harder for his family.

"We had to make decisions really quickly, and with other home renovation projects and health things that we were navigating at the time, we were like, ‘Man, I don't think we can afford solar right now.’ It was a huge bummer."

Fortunately, through EnergySage, Nick discovered something he hadn't known existed: solar leasing.

"I did not realize that leasing solar was an option. Leasing it just like a car—without a down payment."

Through EnergySage's marketplace, Nick received multiple quotes from installers. One particular company stood out for being unusually affordable: It offered a monthly payment of around $125 through a leasing option.

"I'd much rather pay that than $40,000 to put solar on the rooftop right now," he said. “It’s a great alternative for those who may have missed out on the tax credit.”

His installation is scheduled for this spring, and he's already tracking his anticipated usage. The lesson he keeps coming back to: commercial solar companies can still access the federal tax credit and pass those savings along to customers through creative financing structures.

And for all the naysayers who think Nick is crazy for installing solar panels in Michigan, his response is this:

“Yeah, it may be cloudy in the winter months, but I'm going to be saving so much money in the summer. And if I put a battery on there, I'll just bank that electricity and save it for later." Smart guy.

Farmer Nick’s top 3 features for a ‘green home’

When asked what features he'd prioritize in any eco-friendly home, Nick's answers were more accessible than you might expect:

A note for renters and city dwellers

Nick acknowledges that sustainable living looks different when you don't own your home or live in a building. His advice remains the same: start small and don't underestimate what's possible. (Remember, this is the guy who stored over 100 plants in a 600-square-foot apartment.)

Nick said he’s seen solar innovation moving fast in Europe—including balcony-mounted solar panels popular in Germany that allow renters to generate their own power from a small terrace. He's hopeful more of these technologies will make their way to the U.S.—they’re already starting to.

In the meantime, he said to keep it simple: get some plants or a small indoor garden. Maybe a solar charger or a renter-friendly battery.

"However you can grow house plants, food on your windowsill—just do it," he said. "Build that relationship with the green things in your life, and it will have amazing impacts down the road."

How the future—and AI—will fit into the fold

For all his talk of practical steps and accessible entry points, Nick does have a larger vision—one that involves AI, energy grids, and the long arc of how societies power themselves.

"I am optimistic about the impact that AI will have on energy," he said—not because AI is inherently green, but because the scale of energy AI requires will force a reckoning with renewables. The fossil fuel industry, he argues, simply can't power AI data centers cost-effectively. Renewables can. And that economic reality, more than any policy shift, may be what finally tips the scales.

It's a version of his favorite argument: You don't have to lead with values. You can lead with math.

"If I can show you that my car is faster than your car and costs less to fuel, I don't have to tell you it's electric for those things to be true," he said.

Farmer Nick has been making that case—through plants, through mini-splits, through an eco-homestead still very much in progress—one convert at a time.

Martyna Kowalczyk was around 11-years-old the first time she fell asleep in her family’s solar warehouse. It was 2009, and her father had just started a renewable energy company in Poland, back when solar panels were still something of a novelty. The whole family was in it together, hauling equipment, learning the technology, figuring it out. Though Martyna was young, she was excited to be a part of this new family venture and already had a passion for the technology.

"No matter where I saw solar panels as a kid, I would always point them out," she says. "My friends would laugh at me."

Nobody's laughing now.

Kowalczyk is now the CEO of Solartime USA, a company she built from the ground up after moving to Texas from Poland in 2015 and convincing her father to open an American branch of the family business. She's also made a name for herself as the "Solar Girl," a YouTube personality with a growing following of homeowners who trust her honest, no-nonsense take on an industry with a history of some shady dealings. She says she’s never received a single negative review from a homeowner.

But perhaps the most remarkable thing about Kowalczyk's story is what she's had to navigate to get here: a notoriously male-dominated industry that often didn't know what to do with a young woman who knew more about solar than almost everyone in the room.

She turned that into her advantage.

'The woman is the neck'

Ask Kowalczyk what it's like being a woman selling solar to homeowners, and she doesn't hesitate. "My sales team takes advantage of it all the time," she said, laughing. "They'll say, 'I want to put Martyna on the phone.' Or 'I want to bring Martyna over so you can meet her.' It genuinely helps when I talk to women."

This tracks with data that the solar industry has been slow to reckon with. Research shows that more often than not, women make financial decisions in American households—between 69% and 90% of the time, depending on various studies. And Nielsen research estimates they'll control 75% of discretionary consumer spending by 2028. 

Studies consistently show that women are more likely than men to prioritize eco-friendly purchases and values-based investing. Yet only 15% of solar adopters who used EnergySage to research and find installers in 2024 identified as women, and site visitor data showed that just 37% of EnergySage users were female during that time. This isn't a quirk—it's a pattern, and it's costing the industry.

Kowalczyk has a theory about why the gap exists, rooted in something her father used to say: "The man is the head of the family, but the woman is the neck—and wherever the neck moves, that's the primary decision maker."

In practice, though, solar companies have historically directed their pitch at the head, not the neck. "We still see that a lot. Most of the customers we talk to are male, but they always go back to making sure their wife is happy and comfortable with the investment."

But especially when men aren’t part of the shopping equation, solo female shoppers can have a frustrating experience—because the sales process, from the door-to-door pitch to the technical brochures to the sales calls dominated by financial jargon, has historically been calibrated specifically for men. 

One such shopper, Emma Johnson, who went solar primarily out of environmental conviction, described feeling like companies "weren't meeting her at her level of knowledge or listening to her." She told EnergySage she couldn't make sense of the brochures they handed her. One installer put her ground-mounted system behind a row of trees despite her objections. "These people were not paying attention," she said.

If Johnson had been a Solartime customer, Kowalczyk would recognize that experience instantly. She's built her entire business model around its opposite: sitting down with both homeowners—whoever they are—and treating every concern as valid. "When you can hear both sides and both concerns," she says, "you get a better outcome for everyone."

The dynamic is shifting, she said. But the industry hasn't fully caught up.

From sleeping in the warehouse in Poland to selling in Dallas

Kowalczyk's path to CEO wasn't a straight line. When she and her father launched Solartime USA in 2016, she was enrolled in college and working as the company's receptionist. By 2017, she'd quit school to go all-in. She was 23 years old.

"I just really wanted to devote myself to this business. I said, 'I want you to be my mentor, Dad.' He said, 'Let's do it.'"

But she'd already been mentored by a decade of living and breathing solar. What Kowalczyk brought to the Texas market wasn't just knowledge; it was a perspective forged in a completely different culture. In Europe, she explained, clean energy marketing centers on environmental values—sustainability, recycling, ecological responsibility. That approach didn't land in Dallas. In its first year, Solartime USA went heavy on "save the planet" messaging. "We hit a wall. People just did not care,” she said.

So they pivoted their advertising, explaining how solar provides energy independence, financial control, and resilience. Despite the switch, Kowalczyk didn’t feel like she was abandoning her advocacy for the planet. "I would tell my dad, ‘People can think this is fully about control and money, but in the background, we're still doing what we love: going green.’"

The lesson stuck. Today, Kowalczyk doesn't just sell solar—she helps homeowners understand what they're actually buying, and whether it's right for them. "I love solar," she said, "but I love solar when it makes financial sense. Solar is not for everyone."

What being underestimated actually looks like

Kowalczyk doesn't dwell on the harder parts of her story, but she doesn't hide them either.

Early in her career, she remembers being in meetings where people would direct questions to her sales manager—a man she had hired and trained—simply because he was older and male. "It takes time to build confidence and to trust in yourself that you know what you're talking about," she said. "I like to say, ‘Fake it till you make it.’ I positioned myself as someone who knows what they're talking about—because I do. If you have a problem with that, I'm sorry, but that's your problem, not mine."

That confidence wasn't handed to her. Research on gender dynamics within the solar industry suggests that panels and rooftop technology are still widely perceived as "masculine domains" compared to other household technologies, with the responsibility for monitoring and managing solar systems typically falling to men—even when women are equally or more invested in the decision. Kowalczyk has lived this reality from both sides: as a female customer-facing professional navigating a male-dominated field, and as a CEO who has had to establish her authority from scratch.

What changed things, she said, wasn't a single breakthrough moment, but rather an accumulation. It took years of showing up, knowing her material, and gradually realizing that her identity wasn't a liability. It was a differentiator.

"There are so many YouTubers and tech educators in solar who are primarily male. I just try to use who I am to my advantage,” she said.

Earning homeowner trust

The solar industry has a complicated history when it comes to consumer trust. While plenty of installers, like Solartime, genuinely act in their customers’ best interests, bad actors exist. Those companies often have a transparency problem, and Kowalczyk is one of the loudest voices calling them out.

Consumer complaints about solar installations jumped fivefold between 2021 and 2023, according to Time magazine—a period that coincided with aggressive door-to-door sales tactics, inflated pricing, and a wave of shady contracts that left homeowners worse off than before. It’s a big reason EnergySage exists: to ensure homeowners are educated, can compare options, and don’t feel pressured when going solar, so they can feel confident and supported in their decision. 

Kowalczyk watched as these dishonest companies marred the broader solar industry's reputation and felt sick about it.

"People hated it when I would tell them I was in solar," she recalled. "Because of all the horror stories, dealer fees, bad situations people got into because of salespeople. I figured I needed to do something."

That "something" became her Solar Girl brand on Instagram and YouTube—a scrappy, deeply practical education channel where she breaks down solar contracts, battery storage, net metering changes, and installer red flags with the kind of directness you rarely see from someone whose livelihood depends on selling the product. Her motto for homeowners: “Take your time. Don't sign anything today. And if a company says the price goes up tomorrow, walk away.”

"I almost feel like if you're mad at solar, you should be mad at yourself for not doing the due diligence," she said—then immediately softened it. "But that's exactly why I make the content. Because it's in your best interest as a homeowner to select a highly reputable installer and look up the equipment. This is not a purchase to take lightly."

The approach is working. The five-star review streak on Google is real. And Kowalczyk said homeowners who find her on YouTube often end up calling Solartime USA because they've watched her be honest about the industry's problems. Trust, it turns out, is the best sales strategy.

"Solar is so cool"

Ask Martyna Kowalczyk what the future of solar looks like, and she gets animated in a way that makes it clear this was never just a job.

She thinks the industry is entering a weeding-out phase: bad actors, inflated prices, and companies that leaned too heavily on incentive-driven sales tactics are going to struggle. Solar on its own still pencils out financially in most markets, she said, even as the policy landscape shifts.

In Texas, she's seen a massive uptick in battery storage as net metering terms have tightened after the 2021 winter storm, saying eight out of 10 customers who install solar with her now add a battery. The value proposition is about locking in lower energy costs before utility prices climb further.

"People don't call us because of the tax credit," she says. "They call because they have a $500 electric bill and they don't want to pay the utility anymore."

Martyna doesn’t just talk the talk—she walks the walk. "I've had solar on every home I've ever lived in. In Poland. In Wylie. In Garland. I have it on one of my rental properties, and I'm about to put it on another. Solar is so cool."

Turns out, the girl who grew up getting laughed at for pointing at solar panels is the one laughing now: She’s built a lucrative solar company on hard work, relationships, and most importantly, honesty.

You can find Martyna Kowalczyk on YouTube at Solartime with Martyna and on Instagram at @solargirl.dallas.

Gas prices in the U.S. have increased 80 cents in the last month, and your utility bill is likely the next victim of the price spike.

The ongoing conflict in Iran is causing shipping disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz—one of the most important energy passageways on Earth. When that happens, the ripple effects hit your gas bill, your electric bill, and your grocery costs.

We've seen this influence energy prices before. But this time, there's a way out: Households now have real tools to protect themselves from global energy shocks, and many Americans are already using them. Here’s why energy markets are so fragile and how three home technologies are changing the equation for families who are tired of riding the price waves.

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Why a war half a world away raises your energy costs

At first glance, the U.S. might seem well-protected from global energy disruptions. After all, we’re producing record-high levels of oil and natural gas domestically. So why would a conflict in the Middle East affect what you pay for fuel here?

The answer is simple: Energy markets are global. When supply tightens anywhere, prices tend to rise everywhere.

One location that matters more than almost anywhere else is the Strait of Hormuz. A massive share of the world's oil supply flows through this narrow passage every single day. Since the war began, tanker traffic through the strait has been severely disrupted as shipping companies attempt to avoid the conflict zone. Markets reacted immediately. Oil and natural gas prices jumped as tensions escalated, and analysts warn prices could climb much higher if the disruptions continue.

You might be thinking, "But I'm not an oil importer." Fair enough—but if you're still driving a gas-powered car, you're already feeling it the at pump.

And oil's reach goes far beyond gasoline. It influences electricity generation, home heating, transportation costs, food prices, and the cost of everyday goods. When fossil fuel prices spike, the whole economy feels the pain.

That exposes one of the core vulnerabilities of fossil fuels: Their entire supply chain is fragile.

Why fossil fuels are uniquely vulnerable to price shocks

Think about what it actually takes for oil to reach your home. It has to be drilled, refined, transported, shipped across oceans, and delivered through massive infrastructure networks. It's a long, complicated supply chain, and at every step, something can go wrong:

Sanctions.

Pipeline failures.

Extreme weather.

Or, in this case, a new war, creating a shipping crisis in one of the world's most critical energy corridors.

This isn't a new phenomenon. The first time most Americans felt it viscerally was during the oil embargo of 1973, which led to an entire year of long lines, gas shortages, and massive price spikes. It upended the U.S. economy. For decades since, we've had little choice but to absorb these price swings.

But now, homeowners have a solution.

The 3 layers of renewable energy that can protect your home

Renewable energy works fundamentally differently. Sunlight doesn't travel through pipelines. Wind doesn't depend on tankers. The energy stored in batteries can't be blocked by military conflict.

As author and environmentalist Bill McKibben once told us, "Think about how the geopolitics of the world would have been different in the last hundred years if oil had been of trivial value and we ran things on sun and wind. Think of the wars that we would have avoided."

The sun simply shows up every morning, and wind is always flowing somewhere. On especially sunny or windy days, we can store that energy to use later. That's the foundation of a new kind of home energy independence, built on three layers of technology.

Layer 1: Generate your own power with solar

Solar panels are, in a very real sense, small power plants on your roof or yard. And once they're installed, the “fuel” is free.

That means if oil or natural gas prices spike—whether because of a war, a storm, or a political decision—the cost of your solar electricity doesn't move with them.

Solar also pairs naturally with other home electrification upgrades. Induction stoves, electric washer-dryer units, and heat pump systems can all replace fossil fuel appliances. And when powered by solar, your entire home can run on sunlight—that’s what Sean Gallagher did to avoid high utility bills for his Massachusetts home.

"I actually have a net zero home: Heat pumps installed, solar panels on the roof, no electric bill,” said Gallagher.

That combination—lower bills and protection from energy market volatility—is a big reason why rooftop solar adoption has grown so quickly across the U.S.

If your roof or yard isn't a good fit for panels, it's worth knowing that options like plug-in solar or portable panels can still power small appliances and reduce your dependence on the grid. But because the sun doesn't shine 24 hours a day, solar alone isn’t a complete solution, which is where the next layer comes in.

Layer 2: Store that energy with a home battery

Batteries solve solar's biggest limitation: They store energy for when you actually need it.

Here's a staggering fact: The sun delivers more energy to Earth in one hour than humanity uses in an entire year. The challenge has always been capturing and storing it. A home battery does exactly that—it absorbs the extra solar energy produced during the day and makes it available at night or during cloudy stretches.

Pairing solar with a battery gives you around-the-clock freedom from volatile oil and gas prices. Most homeowners still keep their systems connected to the grid for simplicity, but the financial protection is real. And during power outages—which are becoming more frequent as extreme weather events increase—a battery keeps your essential appliances running.

Kris from City Prepping—a company that teaches emergency preparedness—chose a solar and battery system as his back-up power system of choice.

"If there's a disaster, set up solar panels and a battery system with an inverter. You're not relying on fuel that's limited. It produces no noise, no fumes,” he said.

Battery technology is also improving fast. Home batteries are becoming more powerful, more affordable, and easier to install every year.

Layer 3: Cut gasoline out of the equation with an EV

Even with solar panels and a home battery, most households still have one thing tying them to volatile fuel markets: their car.

For many families, gasoline is the single biggest way global energy shocks hit their budget. One week you're paying a reasonable price at the pump, and the next you're watching the numbers climb past $4 or even $5 per gallon. Even in calmer times, the average American household spends between $2,000 to $3,000 a year on gasoline.

An electric vehicle can eliminate that cost. And if you pair it with a home EV charger and solar panels, you can "fuel" your car with electricity generated straight from your own roof, making the cost of driving far more predictable.

Some newer EV models are adding another capability that takes this even further with bidirectional charging, which allows electricity to flow both ways. That means your car isn't just a vehicle, it's also a massive battery for your home. If the power goes out, or if you simply want to avoid expensive electricity during peak demand hours, your EV can power critical appliances or even your whole home.

Energy security is becoming personal

For decades, energy security was something governments handled. Ordinary households had no real tool to protect themselves from global market disruptions—you just paid whatever the pump or the utility said.

That’s changing.

Together, solar, batteries, and EVs allow homes to generate, store, and control their own energy. As Florida homeowner Adam Lawrence put it, "With the weather and the political climate becoming more unpredictable, having power security is super important. It's kind of like number one, you've got to have power, then you've got to have water."

For others, it's more personal. "With the fragility of our nation's functioning, if an enemy were to come against us, we could lose some [access to the] grid. So we don't want to be tied to it necessarily," said Vermont homeowner Jane Jones, who recently made the transition to solar and storage.

These homeowners—and millions like them—are proving that the way you power your home doesn’t have to be as unpredictable as global energy markets. When times are uncertain, and the world feels out of your control, having control over your energy can make all the difference.

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The federal solar tax credit ends after December 31, 2025. That means solar panels will no longer be a viable investment for homeowners, right?

Wrong. It’s still one of the smartest long-term investments you can make in your home.

With falling solar panel costs, rising electricity prices, and the growing importance of personal energy independence, solar continues to deliver major financial benefits in the form of tens of thousands of dollars in savings—with or without the tax incentive. Most homeowners starting their solar journey today can expect to break even within about 10 years, then continue to enjoy at least 15 years or more of free electricity.

Solar still pays for itself—and then some. Here’s how the math works.

Solar prices keep falling as electricity rates climb

Solar prices remained at an average of $2.53 per watt—$29,649 for the average-sized system—in the first half of 2025, the lowest price on record, according to EnergySage data. This represents a dramatic decline from the early 2000s when the average system would’ve cost you nearly $90,000. Even accounting for recent tariffs and supply chain disruptions, the long-term trend remains decisively downward.

Meanwhile, electricity costs are heading in the opposite direction.

"We're entering this era where electricity prices are almost certainly going to rise across the country," Michael Thomas, founder of Cleanview, a platform that tracks clean energy trends, told EnergySage. "They've already risen as much as 30% in a year in a state like Maine recently, and we're looking at electricity price increases of 10, 15, 20% across most states this year."

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects U.S. residential electricity prices to average 16.8 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in 2025, up 2% from last year. Even more concerning for homeowners, residential electricity rates are projected to rise between 15% and 40% by 2030, according to the ICF Climate Center, and could double by 2050.

This divergence creates a widening gap that makes solar increasingly attractive.

"When you install solar panels you lock in a guaranteed price of your electricity, and you get discounted or free electricity for a very long time," Thomas explained. While your neighbor's electric bill keeps going up, yours will remain flat.

The new payback reality: Longer but still profitable

Without the 30% federal tax credit, solar payback periods will extend by roughly two years, according to Zoe Gaston, principal analyst at consulting firm Wood Mackenzie. This would push the average payback period they see from seven to nine years.

"So yes, that's two years, but in the grand scheme of things, it's not too significant,” Gaston said.

She’s referring to the fact that solar panels come with 25-year warranties and often last 30 years or more. Even with the extended payback period, homeowners can expect 16 to 20 years of free electricity after breaking even on their solar investment.

”Folks should run the numbers and see what it looks like,” Thomas said. "In some cases, you might be surprised if you see electricity rates are going to rise 10% every year for the next five years, and then calculate how much you might save with solar," he said. "It might look really good."

Not to mention, the federal tax credit isn’t the only solar incentive out there—many states and utilities still offer their own that can further reduce your payback timeline.

Why electricity prices won't stop climbing

The forces driving electricity prices higher show no signs of abating. Data centers powering artificial intelligence are driving unprecedented electricity demand, with consumption expected to increase 130% by 2030. The Energy Department projects data centers will use more electricity than households for the first time ever next year, putting extreme pressure on our aging power grid.

"We have an outdated electric grid that's just not big enough for the types of things that are happening in the economy right now—data centers, electrification, reshoring of manufacturing," Thomas said. "That ultimately requires investment from utilities, and they pass that on to customers in the form of [higher] rates."

Add natural gas costs that jumped more than 40% in the first half of 2025 compared to 2024, and you have a recipe for sustained price increases. "Any way you look at it, gas-fired power is expensive," John Quigley, senior fellow at the Kleinman Center for Energy Policy at the University of Pennsylvania, told NPR. "It's going to be increasingly expensive as natural gas exports increase."

Equipment costs and soft costs: Room for improvement

While equipment prices have fallen dramatically, climate activist Bill McKibben said there’s still a lot of work to be done.

“The real problem here is that solar costs us three times as much as it does in Europe or Australia," McKibben said.

One of the culprits? Soft costs—things like permitting, interconnection, and paperwork—which account for about two-thirds of installation costs.

“There are 15,000 building departments and municipalities in this country, and each has a building department who would like to climb on your roof. It’s not necessary—doesn’t happen elsewhere in the world,” said McKibben. “If we could knock that down, the price [of solar] would plummet.”

Fortunately, there is some progress being made in some states—both Texas and Florida passed bills in 2025 that will make the permitting process much smoother.

"That's good from both the consumer experience—you don't have to wait as long, you don't do as much paperwork—but most critically, it's going to drive down these so-called soft costs of solar," Thomas explained.

Battery storage costs have also plummeted, falling about 75% over 15 years, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

"Storage prices are really falling because we're seeing the price of battery packs fall across the world, as more people are buying EVs and installing solar and storage," Thomas said. "That's driving the cost down, and consumers benefit from that."

Improved financing options keeps solar accessible

For homeowners concerned about upfront costs without the tax credit, leasing options may provide a solution. A confluence of factors like high interest rates, tax policy changes, and economic uncertainty now make outright ownership more expensive—which makes third-party ownership (TPO) options, including leasing and power purchase agreements (PPAs), more attractive. Gaston said without the solar tax credit, she expects more homeowners to shift toward TPO options.

“The third-party ownership share was about 56% in Q2 of 2025. Looking ahead at our forecast, I expect that to jump to about 70% in 2026,” she said.

With TPO systems, the solar company owns the system, while you benefit from the energy it produces. A key factor: Solar companies can still claim the federal tax credit beyond 2025. It only expires for homeowners this year.

"For the next few years, leases are still going to make a lot of sense because the way the tax bill was written enables [the solar company] to still qualify as a business for the tax credit," Thomas explained. "They will be able to pass that on in the form of cheaper lease rates to consumers."

While solar ownership typically provides better long-term returns, leases eliminate upfront costs and still deliver immediate savings on electric bills—making solar accessible even without the federal tax credit. Solar loans often don't require a down payment either, but if you aren't comfortable taking on a high-debt load, a lease is also worth considering.

Gaston said the elimination of the federal tax credit is also innovating the TPO space, including a new rent-to-own model for solar panel systems that works similarly to leasing a car and purchasing it later.

“There's a lot of hype about prepaid TPO options. The TPO provider owns the system, they claim the tax benefits, but then they pass on the savings to the homeowner as a discount upfront,” Gaston said. “Then the homeowner, after a certain number of years, has the option to purchase the system and own it themselves."

Going solar still makes sense

Losing the 30% federal tax credit undeniably makes solar more expensive upfront for those who want to own their systems. But with electricity rates rising faster than general inflation, equipment costs continuing their downward trajectory, and grid instability increasing, the fundamental value proposition of solar remains strong.

"It's a personal financial decision that everyone has to make for themselves," Thomas said. But the math increasingly favors solar—even without federal support.

If you’re thinking of waiting to see if solar prices drop further, McKibben would advise otherwise.

"I think it's like planting fruit trees. The best time to do it was 20 years ago, and the next best time is today,” he said. “This still just makes bottom-line sense in all kinds of ways, including not a small thing that you're helping prevent the destruction of the planet that we happen to live on."

Every month you delay, you're betting that electricity prices won't continue their decades-long climb while missing the opportunity to lock in predictable energy costs. The federal tax credit may be ending, but the economics and ethics of generating your own clean power to escape rising utility rates and better the planet remain as compelling as ever.

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The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) for customer-owned residential systems expires December 31, 2025. With most installers at capacity through year-end, the credit is no longer accessible for most homeowners. But if you're among those who can install your system before that deadline, there's good news: You can still roll over any unused portions of your credit to future tax years until you've claimed every dollar.

For homeowners who install solar before the December 31, 2025 deadline, this rollover provision means you won't lose out on tax savings just because you couldn't use the full credit in one year. Whether you're a retiree with a modest tax bill or someone installing a large system generating a substantial credit, you'll eventually capture the full value—as long as your system is operational by December 31, 2025.

Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide an informational overview of the federal solar tax credit rollover for interested homeowners. It is not intended to serve as official financial guidance. Readers should consult with a licensed tax professional about their specific situation.

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Yes, you should be able to roll over unused solar tax credits indefinitely

One misconception about the solar tax credit is that you can't take advantage of it if you can't use it all in one year. This can give some homeowners pause when thinking about going solar, especially retirees or others with lower tax bills who worry they'll "waste" part of the credit.

While the IRS could release updated guidance, as of now, a tax expert told EnergySage that the federal tax code allows you to carry forward unused credits to future tax years until you've claimed every dollar. Right now, there's no time limit on this rollover provision—as long as your system is installed by December 31, 2025.

What does this look like in practice? Say you install a $29,649 solar panel system in 2025—the average-priced system on EnergySage. It qualifies for an $8,895 tax credit, but you only owe $4,000 in federal taxes that year. You'd claim $4,000 of the credit in 2025, reducing your tax bill to zero. The remaining $4,895 would then roll over to 2026, and you'd continue rolling over unused portions year after year until you've claimed the full $8,895.

This rollover feature is especially valuable for those who don't owe much in federal taxes annually, like people on fixed incomes or retirement. Even high earners may need a few years to fully use their credit if they install a pricier system that might generate a $15,000 credit, for instance.

The only catch is that you need to actually owe federal taxes to use the credit. It's nonrefundable, meaning you can't get money back if your credit exceeds your tax bill. But there are no income limits or caps on the credit amount. There's also no cap on the cost of the system, so whether your solar installation costs $100,000 or $25,000, you can still claim the full 30% credit.

How rollovers work in 2026 and beyond

While you can roll over credits from systems installed in 2025, no new credits will be generated after the deadline. This creates an interesting situation: You'll be claiming a credit that technically no longer exists.

Generally speaking, existing rollover rights remain intact even after the tax credit expires, according to a tax attorney consulted by EnergySage. The federal tax code's carry forward provision doesn't have an expiration date, so you should be able to keep rolling over those 2025 credits indefinitely.

It's possible the tax form you currently use to claim the credit (Form 5695) could disappear after 2025, but it's unlikely. Even if the standard form goes away, you should still be able to claim rollovers through other tax documentation methods. It may end up being more complicated without the form, though, so consider working with an accountant to make sure you're maximizing your savings.

Keep in mind that the solar tax credit is different from some other tax credits that have strict expiration dates, so your rollover should be protected because it's based on a real system installed during the tax credit's active period.

Do solar leases or PPAs qualify for the rollover?

Here's where some homeowners get tripped up: You only qualify for the tax credit—and the rollover benefits—if you actually own your solar panel system. That means buying it with cash or financing it with a loan.

If you lease solar panels or sign a power purchase agreement (PPA), the solar company owns the system and claims the credit, not you. While you miss out on the direct tax benefits and rollover flexibility, third-party ownership options are becoming more attractive, especially now that the residential tax credit is expiring. Third-party owned systems continue to qualify for commercial solar tax credits if they begin construction before July 2026 or are placed in service by 2028, and competitive providers typically pass those savings through to you as lower monthly rates—giving you indirect access to tax benefits.

The choice between purchasing and leasing comes down to your priorities: ownership and maximizing long-term savings versus capital flexibility and simplicity. Both paths can deliver meaningful electricity bill savings.

If you choose to finance your system with a solar loan or a home equity loan, loan payments are most likely not due by this year's deadline, according to the tax expert EnergySage consulted. As always, speak with a licensed tax professional to confirm what you can claim for your specific installation.

Why the rollover matters for your solar investment

The solar tax credit has been a cornerstone of American clean energy policy for two decades, helping millions of families reduce their energy costs while building a more sustainable future. With the ability to roll over unused credits indefinitely, homeowners who installed systems before the December 31, 2025 deadline have a strong safety net—even those with modest tax bills can eventually claim the full credit value over multiple years.

Solar installations typically take two to three months from signing the contract to connecting your system to the grid. While some installers may still have capacity to complete installations before year-end, many are fully booked. For those who can still secure installation, the rollover provision ensures you won't lose value if you can't use the full credit immediately.

But it's important to remember that solar's value extends far beyond the tax credit. Most homeowners save between $37,000 and $148,000 over 25 years by going solar. You'll protect yourself against rising utility rates (which have increased 32% over the past decade) and increase your home value—benefits that remain long after the credit expires.

We all look forward to the day we can finally retire. It’s easy to romanticize a life free from the daily grind, where you can fully enjoy hobbies, time with loved ones, and the freedom to do as you please. But a stress-free retirement requires a lot of planning and saving. Unlike your salary, your bills won’t disappear once you stop working. Without a steady paycheck, your investments become essential to running your household. 

Establishing a secure financial future for your retirement means exploring a variety of savings options—including solar panels. Many homeowners don't realize that installing a solar panel system can be one of the smartest retirement investment strategies, especially given today’s rising electricity rates. By viewing a home solar panel system as an investment opportunity, homeowners can reduce or even eliminate their electric bills, freeing up that cash for what matters most. 

“A key thing for retirees to consider is cash outflow because you no longer have a cash inflow from a job,” said Jeffrey Walker, who went solar through EnergySage in 2021. “I looked into solar as I noticed what was happening to electricity prices. Now that I’m retired, it certainly helps reduce monthly expenditures on electricity.”

Home solar is a low-risk investment with strong returns

To ensure financial stability, retirees and those planning their retirement generally invest in lower-risk options. Solar panels are a natural fit: They provide steady, increasing returns—similar to the high returns associated with traditional investments like stocks and bonds—but without the unpredictable fluctuations of those markets.

Solar has many financial benefits, including reduced electric bills, protection from future price increases, boosted home value, additional income streams, and tax-free savings. 

Solar reduces or eliminates electric bills

Your solar energy system can generate up to 100% of your electricity needs, eliminating electric bill costs and freeing up more cash every month to spend or invest elsewhere. 

That said, it’s important to note that even if you don't owe money on your electric bill, you'll still receive an electric bill if you're connected to the grid. 

Solar protects against future price increases

Utility electricity rates are turbulent. Over the past 10 years, they've increased by over 38%—and thanks to today’s growing electricity demands, they're only expected to continue increasing. 

By generating your own electricity, rather than buying from your utility, you can protect yourself from unpredictable rate increases for the lifetime of your solar energy system—generally 25 to 30 years. 

Solar increases the value of your home

Installing a solar energy system is an investment in your property. Multiple studies have shown that homebuyers are willing to pay more—about 5-10% according to the latest study—for homes equipped with solar panels.

You may generate additional income with solar

If you live in a state with a market for solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs), you can earn extra money by selling them. It works like this: A utility company purchases the right to “count” your panels’ electricity towards their renewable generation. Selling SRECs is one of the best solar incentives available. 

The benefits of solar investments aren't taxable

Unlike returns from more traditional investment vehicles, your financial returns from solar come in the form of monthly savings, not income (with the exception of SRECs), meaning they are not subject to taxation.

Creative financing can mean big savings

Thanks to the growing availability of $0-down solar loans, homeowners who don’t have cash on hand—or who, like Jeffrey, prefer to keep their money invested—can still leverage solar as a smart retirement strategy. 

When Jeffrey went solar, it made more financial sense for him to finance the system rather than pay upfront using cash from his investment portfolio. “I didn't want to reduce my portfolio that generates interest, dividends, or appreciation in stock prices,” he explained. Instead, he secured a loan with an interest rate low enough that his investments could continue earning more than he’d pay in financing. 

Generally, buying your system outright with cash provides the greatest long-term savings. However, as in Jeffrey’s case, financing your system with a low-interest loan—or signing a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA)—may make more sense if your cash is better invested elsewhere. Ultimately, the best option depends on your individual circumstances.

You can finance your system in one of three ways:

1. Buy the system outright

If you have a CD or other recently matured investment, using that cash to purchase a solar energy system can be a smart way to reinvest it. In 2025, the average EnergySage homeowner reaches payback in just about 10.5 years.

Paying upfront means avoiding interest altogether—you keep 100% of the system’s financial benefits. And with today’s high interest rates, that’s often the most lucrative financing option. Even Jeffrey, who initially chose a solar loan, eventually paid off his system in full. “The rates that I started with were incredibly low,” he said. “But then, as interest rates shot up, it became very expensive. At that point, I just paid off my loan and essentially paid for the panels outright.”

2. Buy the system with a solar loan

If you can't or don't want to pay for the system in cash, many banks and other financial institutions offer $0-down, low-interest solar loans to help with your purchase. Monthly payments are often lower than your monthly electric bill, enabling you to save money right away. Homeowners retain 40% to 70% of the financial benefits of their system with a solar loan, depending on the loan terms.

“If the [monthly loan payment] is less than what you would pay on average for electricity costs, then that’s an immediate benefit,” Jeffrey offered. “In the longer term, it becomes a very positive event in terms of eliminating or dramatically reducing your cash flow outflow to pay for electrical bills once you pay off the investment.”

3. Sign a solar lease or PPA

If you choose a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA), you often won’t pay anything upfront. Instead, a third-party owner charges you a monthly rate or per-kilowatt-hour rate for the electricity they produce. This will likely result in 10% to 20% savings on your electric bill for the duration of your lease agreement. 

For many retirees, a lease or PPA offers practical advantages. You preserve capital for other investments while starting to save on day one. The solar company handles all maintenance and system performance, eliminating unexpected repair costs. And since these third-party owned projects still qualify for the federal solar tax credit (which should get passed to you through lower rates with the right provider), you benefit from incentives even if you don't have the tax liability to claim them directly.

The trade-off is lower lifetime savings compared to ownership. You also won't benefit from increased home value or state-level ownership incentives. But if you prefer simplicity and want to keep your capital flexible, a lease or PPA can still deliver meaningful monthly savings.

A bright retirement starts with solar

Retirement should be about enjoying the years you’ve worked so hard for—not watching rising electricity bills eat away at your fixed income. Yet that’s exactly what’s happening to millions of retirees as utility rates skyrocket year after year. 

Solar delivers something invaluable: energy independence. Switching to solar shields you from unpredictable utility rate hikes, protecting more of your savings for the things that truly matter. With typical savings ranging from $37,000 to $148,000 over 25 years, solar helps ensure your retirement funds last as long as you need them to.

"Our electric bills for air conditioning used to be astronomical in summer, and now we still have energy credits going through the whole summer,” Jeffrey said. “We’re covering about 90% of our electricity demand with solar.”

Did you know that in some states, you can shop around for cheaper electric rates the same way you would shop for a cell phone plan?

These states have “deregulated electricity markets,” which means they give residents the power to choose who supplies their electricity. The problem is, many people don’t even realize they have this choice.

“It's not the most sort of known thing,” said Ben Hood, CTO and co-founder of WattBuy, a company that helps consumers navigate deregulated electricity markets.

With electricity prices reaching all-time highs, understanding whether you have the power to choose your power supplier could save you hundreds—even thousands—of dollars.

What is electricity deregulation?

Most of us live in what's called a regulated electricity market: You're assigned an electricity company depending on your home address, and that's that. But some states have deregulated electricity markets—or some variation of it—including:

• Connecticut

• Delaware

• Illinois

• Maine

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• New Hampshire

• New Jersey

• New York

• Ohio

• Pennsylvania,

• Rhode Island

• Texas

• Washington, D.C.

Hood said the idea for electricity deregulation emerged in the 1990s, when state governments decided to separate “electricity delivery” and “electricity supply” to make the market more competitive. (This is why you now see them listed separately on your electric bill.)

Traditional utilities have always been monopolies—it's one company that builds the power plant, the transmission lines, and delivers electricity to your home. That’s still the case in the majority of states, but if you live in a deregulated state, you have the power to choose which company will supply (or generate) your electricity. No matter where you live, your assigned utility will deliver it.

Think of it like this: The utility company is your commute home. You have to take those roads, but you can choose where you buy your fuel to get there.

Hood said state leaders looked at energy deregulation as a solution, as they were “trying to make sure that the electricity prices were not getting out of hand for their citizens.”

Yet now, over three decades later, electricity prices have surged to historic levels in recent years, making the case for competition stronger than ever.

The benefit of electricity choice

The most obvious advantage of choosing your electric provider is savings—Hood said WattBuy customers save up to 20% on their electric bills. With electricity rates reaching all-time highs and projected to continue rising, it seems like an ideal time to live in a state that lets you shop for electricity deals.

Locking in fixed rates

Many electricity providers offer a fixed-rate option that guarantees you'll pay the same monthly price throughout your contract.

"We've seen the numbers: Electricity prices are going up 6%, electricity inflation is 5 or 6%. So, if you wanted to, in Pennsylvania, you can go and you can find a 36-month fixed-rate plan so that you lock in your prices for the next 36 months. So that for three years you're not going to have that 5 or 6% inflation," Hood explained.

Specialized plans for your lifestyle

Locking in a fixed rate isn't the only way to save: When there's competition for your dollar, each provider devises enticing plans to try to win you over.

For example, if you're a night owl or have an electric vehicle, Hood said some providers offer free electricity from 8:00 p.m. to 8 a.m.—if you have an electric vehicle, that means you could charge your car for free while you sleep. Or, if clean energy matters to you, you can choose an electric provider that offers "green" plans that rely on renewables.

"There are some exotic plans that are great for you to keep your eye out for if you have a special situation like an EV or a solar system or a battery in your garage," Hood said.

Why don't all states offer the power to choose?

Everything about energy deregulation sounds pretty great, so why is it only available in select states?

"It's just what the state legislators valued for their consumers,” said Hood. “If they valued more sort of consistency and no confusion from the marketplace, then they might not deregulate electricity. But if they wanted to encourage that competition, then they might push into it really full force.”

The history of energy deregulation in the U.S.

Here's a little history lesson, because the deregulated electricity landscape has changed a lot since the ‘90s. At first, some states went all-in on consumer choice, including Texas, California, and Michigan (Michigan and California have since pulled back). Some states only give commercial customers a choice. Some only offer a choice for natural gas. And some states don't offer any choices at all.

As of 2025, only the 14 states plus Washington D.C. we mentioned above have electricity choice markets, and even then, each state has its own rules.

Texas: The poster child for deregulation

Texas is the only state where residents are required to choose a power supplier—you aren't automatically assigned to a local utility as you are in any other state. That means there's a lot more competition among third-party suppliers and a lot more energy suppliers for you to choose from.

"In Houston, you might have 300 options," Hood said.

Other deregulated states make "choice" a little harder to come by. For example, Hood said Michigan has a 10% cap, which is filled mainly by commercial customers, so very few residents get electricity choice. In other states, like New York, he said most residents have a choice, but they also have fewer providers to choose from because the state has strict rules for electricity companies.

"New York allows deregulation, but they require all of the deregulated plans to either be 100% renewable or to guarantee savings. So there's not a lot of variety," Hood explained.

Most states offer “community choice aggregation”

Aside from Texas, most deregulated states offer what's called "community choice," which means your local utility will be assigned to deliver and supply energy to your home by default, but you can opt for a different supplier.

Ben said the issue is that many people don't know they have this option. (I'm guilty: I moved to Massachusetts a year ago, and months went by before I sifted through my stack of ad mail and saw that several power companies were offering me different rates and plan options).

The downsides and challenges of deregulated energy

Clearly, there are benefits to electricity choice, but there are some downsides.

"There's a mental load that comes from needing to figure this out every three years if you sign up for a 36-month contract," Hood said. "If you only want one or two options, then having 300 is overwhelming."

Of course, many of us would rather have too many choices than none at all, but analysis paralysis is real. Hood said that's why tools like WattBuy exist.

"I mean, there are folks in Texas who are pulling out spreadsheets and calculating all of these things. We think, okay, we'll just do the math for you. We're good at math. We can do it for you," Hood said.

There’s also a dark side to retail electricity choice: Hood said the main reason he got into this business was to help protect consumers from scammers.

"There were door-to-door salesmen who were basically not explaining what people were signing up for, going into low-income neighborhoods and convincing people to sign up for a four-year contract that makes them double their electricity rate," Hood said.

That's why it's important to do your research and work with companies you can trust.

The case for nationwide electricity choice

Most of us can agree that we'd like the freedom to choose who supplies our electricity. So the question is, why aren't all states moving toward deregulating their electricity?

"Most of the lobbying dollars that come from utilities go into state legislators. There's a lot of entrenched interests that fight that because they have little kingdoms and they would like to stay king of those little kingdoms," Hood said.

So nationwide deregulation would be challenging politically, to say the least. But whether you live in a deregulated market or not, understanding what it is and how it works is important—especially as our nationwide energy use increases.

"This type of innovation is going to be more important as we load the grid a little bit more," Hood said. "It's going to be so much more important for us to be able to eke all of the capacity out."

Should you switch electric providers?

If you do live in a deregulated state, Ben said you should start by asking yourself this question: Am I spending too much on electricity?

"If you're happy with your electricity bill, then just go with it. But if you feel like August comes around and you're kind of dreading opening that electricity bill, then it behooves you to take a look," Hood said.

You can check if you're overpaying for your electricity for free on WattBuy. Its 90-second process may save you over $1,000 on your electric bills over the next three years.

Pair that with solar panels, a home battery, heat pumps, and an EV—all of which you can get through EnergySage—and you could probably kiss all your utility expenses goodbye.

Electricity choice isn't available everywhere, but for those who have it, the savings can be substantial. And for the rest of us? It's worth asking why our state leaders aren't fighting harder to give us the freedom to choose.

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Think solar panels only add a modest bump to your home's value? Think again. New research analyzing 5,000 California home sales shows that solar installations are driving property value increases of 5% to 10%—more than double previous estimates. For the average $790,000 California home, that's an eye-popping $39,500 to $79,000 boost in resale value.

This isn't just about monthly electric bill savings anymore. The data shows solar panels have become one of the most valuable home improvements you can make, delivering returns that exceed traditional renovations while providing decades of energy independence.

With the average solar panel system costing about $29,649 before incentives, homeowners may be able to recover their entire investment through property value increases alone—then enjoy decades of electricity savings on top of that.

Solar's home value impact is bigger than realized

For years, the solar industry relied on a 2019 Zillow study showing solar panels added about 4.1% to home values. But recent research conducted by SolarInsure provides a newer picture. It analyzed 5,000 California home sales between 2020 and 2023, comparing 2,350 homes with owned solar systems against 860 comparable homes without solar and 1,790 homes with third-party-owned solar.

The findings are striking: Homes with owned solar panels sold for 5% to 10% more than similar homes without solar, a significant jump from Zillow's 2019 study.

System age played a smaller role than expected. Solar installations over five years old still earned a 5% to 6% premium, while newer systems saw 7% to 9% increases. This suggests buyers value the long-term savings potential more than the newest technology.

To ensure accurate comparisons, researchers matched each solar home with three non-solar properties of similar size, age, and amenities in the same area. They also used the Case-Shiller Home Price Index to account for market fluctuations over the study period.

According to EnergySage data, the average 12-kilowatt system costs about $29,000 before incentives. With the 30% federal tax credit, that drops to roughly $20,000. So, if your home's value increases by just 5% due to solar, you could recover your entire investment through increased property value alone—before counting decades of electricity savings.

Why buyers pay more for solar homes

Several factors drive solar's impressive impact on home values:

• Guaranteed cost savings: Buyers are purchasing decades of reduced electricity bills. With average household electricity costs skyrocketing, solar represents protection against future rate increases.

• Energy independence: As power outages become more frequent and utility rates climb, solar paired with storage offers stability and resilience.

• Quality investment signal: Solar installation demonstrates that homeowners have made thoughtful, long-term improvements to the property.

• Immediate benefits without upfront costs: New homeowners inherit the solar system's benefits without the initial investment or installation disruption.

• Growing market awareness: As solar becomes mainstream, more buyers understand and appreciate its value proposition.

Your financing choice impacts your property value

The new research confirms that ownership makes a big difference when it comes to home solar. Homes with third-party-owned solar—leased or power purchase agreement (PPA) systems—showed no value increase compared to homes without solar.

This distinction becomes even more significant given the current federal policy. While the residential tax credit ends December 31, 2025, the commercial tax credit continues for systems that begin construction before July 2026 or are placed in service before 2028. This means companies offering leases and PPAs can still claim tax credits for systems, but homeowners won't see those savings reflected in property values.

That said, leases and PPAs serve an important purpose for many homeowners. They provide immediate electricity savings with no upfront cost and no maintenance responsibilities, allowing homeowners to keep their capital flexible.

The property value consideration primarily affects traditional lease and PPA structures where the solar company retains ownership through the life of the agreement. From a buyer's perspective, these arrangements can sometimes present complications if new homeowners don't want to inherit monthly payments and contract obligations.

However, some newer prepaid lease and PPA products offer a path to ownership before you sell your home. If you buy out or complete payments on your agreement and own the system outright by the time you list your property, you may see the same property value increases as systems purchased from day one.

Solar beats traditional home improvements

Compared to other popular renovations, solar delivers superior returns. National Association of Realtors data shows complete kitchen remodels recover about 60% of their cost at resale, while bathroom renovations typically see 50% cost recovery.

Solar panels can offer 100% cost recovery through property value increases alone, plus ongoing electricity savings. Unlike renovations that primarily enhance aesthetics or comfort, solar provides measurable, quantifiable financial benefits.

The installation process also favors solar. While kitchen or bathroom renovations can disrupt your home for months, solar installation typically takes just one to two days and is minimally disruptive to daily life.

Solar's long-term value proposition

For most homeowners, solar is a smart investment. Equipment costs have dropped significantly—EnergySage Intel's latest Marketplace Report shows prices hit record lows of $2.50 per watt in late 2024, down from over $3.80 per watt in 2014.

At the same time, household electricity costs are expected to increase substantially as utilities expand capacity to meet growing demand. With electricity prices historically increasing around 2.8% annually, the value of solar's fixed energy costs becomes more significant each year.

The 5% to 10% property value increase reflects the market's recognition of solar as a valuable, long-term asset. It's one of the few home improvements that can pay for itself through property value increases alone and then deliver decades of additional savings.

When homebuyers purchase homes with solar panels, they gain energy savings and grid independence—benefits that continue to drive demand and value. Solar remains one of the smartest investments you can make in your home, offering returns that few other improvements can match.

America’s EV revolution has picked up speed, but we’re not quite at the finish line yet. The U.S. still falls behind many other countries, including China and the entire European Union, in electric vehicle adoption. And a recent AAA report found that roughly 63% of U.S. adults are unlikely to purchase a fully electric vehicle as their next car—but the reasons behind their hesitation reveal a story of changes already underway. 

Many of these concerns stem from outdated myths (and Big Oil propaganda) about EVs, but some reflect real challenges that innovators, policymakers, and the industry are actively solving. The good news? Experts believe we’re at a critical tipping point, which means the path to widespread adoption could soon accelerate dramatically.

Here are the four biggest roadblocks to making EVs practical for everyone—and how America is working to overcome them.

Roadblock #1: Gaps in U.S. charging infrastructure

Lack of convenient public charging stations and fear of running out of charge—aka "range anxiety"—are two of the top arguments against buying an EV. But this fear isn’t rooted in reality.

Here's some perspective: In 2023, only 4% of EV service calls to AAA were for fear of running out of charge—and most cars still had juice.

The real problem? Lack of convenient public charging. Nearly 40,000 public chargers were added in 2024, but EV advocate Tom Moloughney, host of the YouTube Show State of Charge, admits that "there's not enough."

"It’s also very regional—the coasts seem to have more charging infrastructure installed than the Midwest. There are regions of the country that are terribly underserved," said Moloughney.

Even in well-served areas, chargers may not be reliable. For example, Jonny Lieberman from the YouTube show Driving with Jonny says his local charging station in Southern California has "three cars charging 24 hours a day, with a line of three to 10 cars waiting." Even where chargers are plentiful, Lieberman admits that many of the stations are plagued by outdated technology—there are different levels of EV chargers, and they’re not created equal.

But despite these charging challenges, improvements are happening. A 2025 report showed that only 14% of all EV owners reported an unsuccessful charging visit—down from the 20% rate that had been hovering since 2021. America is on track to add nearly 17,000 public fast-charging ports this year, with a goal of providing access to 100,000 public fast chargers by 2027.

Plus, some EV drivers are finding workarounds, like charging their EV at an RV park.

Roadblock #2: The renter problem

Just over a third of Americans are renters and likely don't have access to home charging. According to the AAA report, 27% of Americans said they didn’t want to purchase an EV due to the challenges of installing a home charger.

"If there was a policy for renters that said they had to have the ability to get a charger where they park their car, I think that would overnight change the game,” said Liebermann.

While you don't need a home charger to drive an electric car (you can also plug it into a wall outlet), it really increases convenience and affordability. It's “three times cheaper to charge at home than it would be to charge on a fast charger,” according to Liebermann.

His solution? "There should be a movement like you can't rent an apartment without heat. You shouldn't be able to rent one without the ability to install a charger."

Some innovative charging solutions are already emerging, like EVMatch. It’s sort of like an Airbnb for EV chargers, providing drivers with access to chargers from homes and businesses they usually wouldn't have access to.

Roadblock #3: Unfriendly EV policies

While other countries have been rolling out the red carpet for EVs, American policy has been inconsistent. The biggest recent change is the elimination of the federal EV tax credit.

"There's no way around it—vehicles are going to become more expensive on October 1st here in the U.S., and it's going to slow down electric vehicle sales," said Moloughney.

Other countries beating America in the EV race—like Norway, Sweden, and China—offer various EV driver benefits, including tax breaks, free charging, and parking discounts.

But despite these rollbacks, not all EV incentives have been lost. Tom Bowen from Qmerit, the leader in EV charger installations, said some corporations are also making up for the loss of the federal tax credit. "We're seeing many of our partners on the [Original Equipment Manufacturer] side respond with additional incentives to try to encourage folks to purchase. We also see that at the state level, some utilities are still offering incentives," he said.

Roadblock #4: Lack of budget EVs

If you compare brand-new, recent model cars, the sticker price isn't that much higher on an EV. But if you're looking for a quality budget vehicle, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an electric option.

"At the entry-level market, you can still get internal combustion engines cheaper than EVs," says Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield, founder and host of Transport Evolved. She said the lack of EVs at that entry-level point matters greatly to many Americans.

But here's something that might surprise you: Budget EVs exist.

The Chinese manufacturer BYD makes a $10,000 EV called the Seagull—but high tariffs and security concerns prevent it from being sold in the U.S.

The good news? GM and Ford made billion-dollar investments in plants for more affordable EVs starting closer to $30,000. Tesla has promised a $25,000 Model 2, though its future remains unclear. While these aren't $10,000 BYD prices, they're trending in the right direction. 

"I think consumer demand will drive [prices down],” said Bowen. “The consumer tends to win out if it's a better experience."

And in the meantime, you can often find used EVs with low mileage and minimal wear and tear for about half the price of a new one.

Optimism for an electrified America, despite the roadblocks

Each expert remains optimistic about America's EV future. While EVs only currently account for around 9% of America’s new car sales in 2025, that number may be more positive than it sounds. "I heard 8% was a tipping point, and once you get to 8%, it eventually gets to 100%," said Lieberman.

Moloughney said he believes EVs would've hit 50% of new car sales around 2032 if the tax credit hadn’t been eliminated. Without it, he expects that timeline to be pushed to 2035. Lieberman estimates 2040.

What can we do to increase EV adoption?

One thing we can all do right now to help meet that goal is to fight EV misinformation with facts.

"We need to be willing and able to tackle FUD [fear, uncertainty, doubt] with compassion, empathy, science, and facts," says Gordon-Bloomfield.

So when you hear someone say, "Don't they catch fire all the time?" or "Those batteries need to be replaced, and they're not good for the environment," share the truth with them.

America's path to 50% EV adoption isn't about waiting for better EV technology. It's about consumer education, improved convenience, better incentives, and more affordable vehicles. The harder we fight for these things, the faster Americans will move away from the gas pumps.

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Solar prices have fallen dramatically over the past few decades, averaging $2.53 per watt in 2025—a huge drop from the $7+ per watt costs of the early 2000s. Even more notable, the U.S. solar industry has maintained prices at these record-low levels despite recent economic headwinds, a testament to the sector’s resilience and innovation.

While U.S. solar remains more expensive than in countries like Australia, where systems can cost under $1 per watt, American installers are working hard to close the gap. Much of the focus is on reducing “soft costs”—non-equipment expenses like permitting, marketing, and administrative overhead. By streamlining these processes, installers can lower prices while still delivering the quality and reliability that U.S. homeowners expect.

The Trump administration’s tariffs have added new challenges, but EnergySage data shows that, in early 2025, many installers absorbed these financing cost pressures rather than passing them on to homeowners. This adaptability underscores the industry’s long-term ability to reduce costs and expand adoption.

Has solar in the U.S. been getting less expensive?

Solar costs on EnergySage have fallen from $3.86 per watt in 2014 to $2.53 per watt in 2025—a drop of more than 34% over the past decade. For a typical 11-kilowatt (kW) system, that decline translates to roughly $14,600 in savings. The difference is even starker compared to the early 2000s, when solar panel systems cost upward of $7 per watt.

These prices reflect the gross installed cost of solar before any rebates or incentives. Depending on where you live, state and local programs can further reduce costs, although availability varies widely.

Will Trump’s tariffs drive the cost of solar back up?

In addition to eliminating the federal solar tax credit, the Trump administration’s new tariffs on imported solar equipment may impact pricing for American homeowners. According to EnergySage's latest contractor survey, 70% of installers expected tariffs to negatively impact their businesses, with 19% predicting they would "dramatically harm" their ability to operate profitably.

However, the solar industry has shown resilience in managing cost pressures. Data from the first half of 2025 shows that installers absorbed financing cost pressures rather than raise prices ahead of anticipated tariffs and policy changes. Solar prices remained stable in the first half of 2025, suggesting installers found ways to maintain competitive pricing despite economic headwinds.

Many installers are actively working to reduce soft costs—the non-equipment expenses that can add significant expense to installations. With equipment costs representing only about 46% of total system cost, there's a substantial opportunity for cost reductions in other areas.

“When you think about all of the industries being disrupted by tariffs, residential solar should be able to handle them the easiest because they have so much more room to improve,” Jigar Shah, former Director of the Loan Programs Office in the U.S. Department of Energy and current energy entrepreneur and podcaster, said to EnergySage.

“We know that we can get the cost of residential solar down closer to $2 a watt, and we have all this [electricity price] volatility while the [solar] product has never been more valuable for customers.” 

While solar prices could drop further, holding off on installation isn’t always the best strategy. Even without the federal tax credit, which ends for systems installed after December 31, 2025, most systems pay for themselves in about 10 years through electric bill savings, then go on to deliver decades of free electricity. With electricity rates climbing and no slowdown in sight, the savings from going solar today often outweigh the potential benefits of waiting.

Why is solar in Australia less expensive?

When people point to lower international solar costs, Australia is usually the benchmark. As of March 2025, the cost of residential solar energy in Australia averaged just AUD $0.90 (USD $0.59) per watt—less than a quarter of the U.S. average.

One big reason is permitting. In the U.S., requirements vary widely by state and local jurisdiction, often involving extensive paperwork for installers to complete. Australia finds ways to ease these requirements and restrictions by offering nearly immediate virtual permitting portals. 

“[Installers] could drop their cost tremendously if they just worked smarter, not harder,” said Shah. “That means working with the utility to make interconnection easier, and talking to your town's mayor and city council members.”

“Be very vocal—that's how this works,” Shah said. “If you have a solution, and your local officials are making it hard for their constituents to access it, that should be something that has political consequences.”

But Australia’s success comes with caveats. Reports have documented cases in the country where solar energy systems, expected to last 20 years, experienced malfunctions or sharp performance drops after only five years. Meanwhile, many U.S. systems installed in the early 2000s are still running smoothly after two decades, suggesting America’s stricter regulatory oversight helps ensure long-term reliability.

A balance must be struck between lowering costs and maintaining quality solar installations. Fortunately, recent data show that U.S. installers are finding ways to cut costs without compromising quality. 

According to EnergySage’s latest contractor survey, many installers are streamlining soft costs—expenses like sales, overhead, and operations—rather than skimping on labor or equipment. With 84% of installers reporting higher labor costs in the past year, finding efficiencies in other areas becomes critical for maintaining competitive pricing.

Solar remains a smart bet for U.S. homeowners

Solar continues to deliver strong returns despite tariffs, policy shifts, and higher labor costs. Most systems pay for themselves in a little over 10 years, and with panels lasting up to 30 years, homeowners can enjoy decades of free electricity after the initial investment is recouped. For anyone looking to reduce costs and achieve energy independence, solar remains one of the smartest investments available in the United States today.

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The average American family spends nearly $1,800 a year on electricity today, but that bill could rival a second car payment by mid-century. Annual electricity costs are projected to hit nearly $4,000 by 2054—adding up to more than $81,000 in cumulative costs over the next three decades. 

Exploding demand from AI data centers and the massive investments required to modernize the nation’s aging power grid are the biggest forces behind these rate hikes, putting unprecedented strain on utility companies. 

Installing a home solar panel system is a way to flip that script. Instead of watching electric bills drain your budget year after year, going solar can lock in predictable energy costs and deliver an estimated $52,000 in savings before any potentially available incentives—turning a growing expense into lasting financial relief.

30-year outlook: Average electricity costs vs. solar savings

*Assumes a cash purchase of a solar panel system that costs $29,649 and does not include any tax credits or rebates, which would reduce the price and increase savings.
**Breakeven year

Data centers and an aging grid drive up electricity costs

America’s electric grid wasn’t built for today’s digital demands, let alone tomorrow’s AI-powered economy. The projected surge in electricity costs stems from multiple converging factors, but one stands out: Data centers. Electricity demand from data centers alone is expected to grow by 130% by 2030, creating immense potential strain on an already overburdened grid.

Utility companies must invest heavily in upgrading aging infrastructure to keep up. Those costs ultimately get passed along to customers through higher rates. In Virginia—the state with the heaviest cluster of data centers—Dominion Energy has signaled how these pressures play out on household budgets. The utility is moving forward with rate hikes that will raise the typical customer’s bill by about $21 a month by 2027. Roughly half of that increase went into effect in July, offering a preview of what could come nationwide.

“Demand is going up and we're going to need new generation, but there are supply chain bottlenecks,” Christopher Knittel, professor at MIT Sloan School of Management and director of the Climate Policy Center and the Center for Energy and Environmental Policy Research (CEEPR), told EnergySage.

“We certainly point to building out the transmission network as a way to lower prices because it can enable us to move cheap electricity across different regions, but it's a double-edged sword from that perspective,” he said. “We have an aging infrastructure, so even if we just maintain the status quo, that will lead to higher rates as we renew that infrastructure.”

Solar offers protection from escalating electricity rates

As electricity rates climb year after year, solar panels allow homeowners to lock in stable energy costs for decades. According to EnergySage data, a homeowner with solar panels could save more than $52,000 over the next 30 years, while their neighbor who relies solely on the grid could face nearly $82,000 in electricity costs over the same period. 

Solar panel systems usually take several years to pay off, but once they do, savings will compound as electricity rates continue to rise. EnergySage’s analysis indicates that solar homeowners will break even by year 14 (or 2038 if you install this year) and start seeing positive cumulative savings, which grow substantially each year thereafter. By year 20, total savings surpass $17,000; by the 30-year mark, they reach nearly $52,000.

Those numbers don’t include any potential state tax credits and rebates, which could further increase savings. They also don’t include the federal solar tax credit, which expires after December 31, 2025—nearly a decade ahead of its original schedule due to recent federal legislation. To qualify for the tax credit, systems need to be installed by the end of the year, but many installers are already reporting maximum capacity. 

The good news is that solar remains a strong long-term investment, even without the federal tax credit. Most homeowners save between $34,000 and $120,000 on electricity over the lifetime of their system. Regardless of tax credits, falling equipment costs and rising electricity rates make solar an increasingly smart financial choice.

The key advantage is energy independence. While non-solar utility customers remain exposed to rate hikes driven by infrastructure upgrades, fuel price swings, and regulatory changes, solar homeowners generate their own clean electricity at a predictable cost that stays consistent for decades.

The $80K question: Pay the utility or go solar?

American homeowners face a simple decision: Continue paying skyrocketing electric bills that could exceed $80,000 over the next 30 years, or invest in solar panels that offer substantial long-term savings.

Electricity rates will keep climbing due to surging demand from data centers and ongoing infrastructure upgrades, but solar technology continues to become more affordable and efficient. By going solar, homeowners can lock in predictable energy costs while building equity in their own power generation.

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The clock is ticking on the federal EV tax credit. With the $7,500 incentive for new EVs and $4,000 for used models set to expire September 30, 2025, shoppers have just days left to save thousands on their next electric vehicle.

After marathon debates in Congress and the signing of President Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" on July 4, the credits that were originally slated to continue through 2032 will vanish completely—no phase-out, no warning beyond this final deadline.

For context, this isn't just pocket change we're talking about. According to Kelly Blue Book, the average new electric vehicle costs $57,245 as of August 2025. That $7,500 credit represents a 13% discount. August EV sales surged almost 18% year-over-year as buyers rushed to beat the deadline. Now, as we enter the last weekend to claim the credit before it expires, the questions are piling up faster than cars at a charging station.

We answer the 10 most pressing questions about what this means for your next car purchase and the future of electric transportation in America.

What exactly ends on September 30?

The federal tax credits for electric vehicles—worth up to $7,500 for new EVs and plug-in hybrids, and up to $4,000 for used ones—expire completely on September 30, 2025. These credits, which were supposed to continue through 2032 under the Inflation Reduction Act, were cut short when Congress passed the reconciliation bill earlier this year.

Unlike past changes to EV incentives that included gradual phase-outs, this is a hard stop. One day you can save thousands; the next day you can't. The credit applies to both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), though each must meet specific requirements, including North American assembly and battery sourcing rules.

Do I need the car in my driveway by September 30?

There's some breathing room: You don't necessarily need to drive your EV home by September 30. According to recent IRS guidance, you need to have a written binding contract in place and make a payment by that date. This means if you sign a contract and put down a deposit by September 30, you can still qualify for the credit even if the car arrives in October or later.

This clarification is especially helpful if you're ordering a vehicle that needs to be manufactured or shipped from another state. The key is having that contract signed and payment made—not necessarily taking delivery.

Which vehicles still qualify right now?

Not every EV qualifies for the full credit. The list changes frequently as automakers scramble to meet battery sourcing requirements. Currently, popular qualifying models include various configurations of the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Ford F-150 Lightning, and select Hyundai and Genesis models.

Just keep in mind that even within a given model, some trims or battery configurations may not qualify, depending on how their battery materials are sourced or assembled. So, make sure to verify the specific VIN or trim’s eligibility. The credit is also split into two halves: One portion for satisfying “battery component / assembly” requirements and another for “critical mineral sourcing.” Some vehicles may qualify only partially (i.e. $3,750) if they meet one but not both requirements.

Remember, SUVs, vans, and pickups have an $80,000 price cap, while other vehicles cap at $55,000. These limits refer to the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP), not what you negotiate at the dealership. Always verify current eligibility at fueleconomy.gov before making your purchase.

Can you still claim federal tax credits for installing a home EV charger?

While you only need to sign paperwork to claim the EV tax credit, the charging tax credit is more time-intensive—the installation needs to be complete. The good news is that you still have until June 30, 2026 to get that charger installed and claim the credit.

The 30C Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit provides up to 30% of the total cost (up to $1,000) for installing an EV charger at your home—but there's a catch. You must live in an eligible low-income community or non-urban census tract to qualify. You can check your eligibility using the Department of Energy's mapping tool.

You must file for the tax credit in the year the charging infrastructure was placed in service. So if you install your charger in 2025, you'll claim the credit on your 2025 tax return. Unlike the EV purchase credit, there's no point-of-sale rebate option—this one requires waiting until tax season.

How much money will I actually lose after September 30?

The immediate loss is straightforward: $7,500 for new EVs or $4,000 for used ones. But the real impact depends on your situation. If you're financing, that $7,500 could mean the difference between a $500 and $600 monthly payment. For cash buyers, it's $7,500 less to invest or keep in savings.

Industry analyst Karl Brauer warns the impact could be severe. “I think you're going to see third quarter EV sales probably go up slightly, or at least remain strong, simply because people who want to buy one are going to jump in before that Sept. 30 deadline,” he told Yahoo Finance. After that, he predicts EV market share could drop to as low as 4%, half of the current levels.

Can I still get the credit if I lease instead of buy?

Both the residential EV tax credit (Section 30D) and the commercial credit (Section 45W) that dealers use for leased vehicles expire on September 30, 2025.

Section 45W explicitly states, "No credit shall be determined under this section with respect to any vehicle acquired after September 30, 2025." The IRS has confirmed in its official guidance that no commercial credits will be allowed for vehicles acquired after this deadline.

But, if you sign a binding lease agreement and make a payment by September 30, you can still benefit from the credit even if the vehicle is delivered later. This means dealers can still claim the commercial credit and pass those savings to you through lower lease payments—but only if your lease is signed and paid for before the deadline.

After September 30, you're on your own. Some manufacturers have announced they'll offer their own $7,500 discounts to maintain sales momentum, but these company-specific incentives will vary widely and aren't guaranteed to match the federal credit's value.

Are there income limits I need to know about?

Yes, and they haven't changed. To qualify for the new EV credit, your modified adjusted gross income must be below $300,000 for joint filers, $225,000 for heads of household, or $150,000 for single filers. For used EVs, the limits are lower: $150,000 for joint filers and $75,000 for singles. And there aren’t limits if you lease your EV because the credit technically goes to the dealer.

You can use either your current year's income or the previous year's—whichever is lower. This flexibility helps if you've had a recent income change that might affect your eligibility.

Will states pick up the slack?

If you can’t purchase an EV in the next week, you may still be able to claim other incentives. Some states are trying to cushion the blow. New Jersey's Charge Up program offers up to $4,000 per vehicle through 2026. Other states like New York and Massachusetts have their own incentive programs, though none match the federal credit's value. And many utility companies also offer rebates for home chargers and special EV electricity rates.

The landscape varies dramatically by state. For example, states like Alabama and Mississippi offer little to no state-level support. Check your state's incentives at DSIRE before making your decision.

How will this affect EV prices and availability?

The market is about to flip dramatically. With the credit deadline just days away, we're seeing the final surge of buyers rushing to lock in savings before September 30. After that? Expect a very different landscape.

Many manufacturers are already planning their post-credit strategies—which, especially with EV sales volumes already down earlier this year, will likely include price cuts, according to Ivan Drury, director of insights at car buying site Edmunds.

“If you already can’t sell the vehicles at current prices, there’s no way you are going to sell them at today’s prices with this credit going by the wayside,” he told CNN. For buyers, this could mean manufacturer discounts that partially replace the federal credit.

The next few months will be telling for the entire EV industry—and for shoppers weighing whether to wait and see if prices drop, or lock in current deals while inventory is still available.

What happens to the EV market long-term?

The EV industry faces a significant transition. "There's no doubt we'll see lower EV sales next quarter after tax credits end September 30, and it may take several months for the market to normalize," said Duncan Aldred, senior vice president of General Motors North America, in a recent statement. "We will almost certainly see a smaller EV market for a while, and we won't overproduce. Still, we believe GM can continue to grow EV market share." 

Next week marks a watershed moment for electric vehicle adoption in America. The difference between buying before or after September 30 is thousands of dollars. So if you’re on the fence, head to the dealership this weekend, and take an EV for a spin. There’s a good chance you’ll leave with a new electric car. 

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The Federal Reserve on Wednesday cut interest rates for the first time this year, dropping the federal funds rate another 25 basis points, bringing the benchmark lending rate down to 4.0% - 4.25%. September's rate cut comes after the Fed declined to lower rates all year. It's good news for homeowners looking to go solar.

The solar industry experienced a slow down over the past couple years as higher interest rates made homeowners and business owners alike hesitant to purchase pricey solar systems that often need to be financed with loans. Increased rates made those loans more expensive and changed the financial equation for many people wanting to invest in renewable energy by pushing out the solar break-even point by several years. 

However, this rate cut—combined with dropping installation costs—should make the financials involved with going solar more appealing to on-the-fence homeowners.

Lower rates mean that homeowners will see a return on their solar investment faster than they would have even a year ago. For example, this most recent 25-basis- point reduction in the Fed funds rate means a homeowner will save about $3,000 in interest payments on a 20-year, $30,000 home solar loan.

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Going solar is a wise investment regardless of what’s happening with interest rates because your saved monthly electric costs are typically greater than a monthly solar loan payment. When rates drop like they did on Wednesday, the numbers work in your favor even more so, reducing what you’ll owe in interest on your loan. That means you can pay off the loan sooner, and you’ll have a faster solar payback period, too.

"Most solar adopters finance their system with a loan, so dropping interest rates will help make solar more affordable and likely drive up demand for new commercial and residential solar installations," said Spencer Fields, former director of insights at EnergySage.

How do lower interest rates make solar cheaper for me to install?

How much you can save with solar will always depend on a few key factors including the cost of electricity in your area, how much electricity you use and your state’s energy policies such as net metering. But your interest rate will always be a critical factor in your savings equation if you take out a loan to pay for your solar panels.

Just as with a mortgage or any other major purchase you choose to finance, the lower your interest rate, the less interest you’ll have to pay over time, and the more money you’ll save. The average home solar panel system costs about $30,000 before incentives, and according to EnergySage data, around 85% of homeowners finance their solar system. 

Let’s look at a quick example: If you take out a $30,000 loan at a 4.25% interest rate for a 20-year term, you’ll pay about $14,500 in interest. That same loan at a 5% rate, will cost you around $17,500 in interest. That means this interest rate cut could save you as much as $3,000 in interest payments over your loan term.

Plus, most EnergySage customers pay off their solar loans early, further reducing their overall interest payments. An EnergySage analysis found that the typical homeowner who used EnergySage for their solar project paid off their solar loans in less than 10 years. So, this interest rate cut, combined with the early repayment schedule, could add up to as much as $10,000 in saved interest costs for a 20-year loan.

When it comes to solar loans, it’s also important to remember that there can be additional fees and costs rolled into your loan depending on your lender and the specific terms of your loan. That’s why it’s vital to look at not just the interest rate, but the Annual Percentage Rate, or APR, because the APR includes all of the other fees built into your loan, giving you a more complete picture of the rate you’re truly paying.

A lower interest rate speeds up your solar payback period

Solar is a worthwhile investment because, as we explained above, you can often make your money back in less than 10 years. From there on it’s pure savings going back into your pocket. Even if they take out a 20-year loan, the average homeowner who goes solar through the EnergySage Marketplace pays their loan back in less than 10 years. So if you take out a loan while interest rates are lower like they are now, you’ll hit your payback period sooner and save yourself more money over time.

Should you wait to buy solar panels until interest rates drop again? 

You’ve probably heard the conventional wisdom that it’s not smart to try to time the stock market. Well, the same advice applies to timing interest rate cuts. Fed officials indicated they will look to continue to balance economic risks through the end of 2025 and likely won't make another rate cut by the end of the year.

While all kinds of macroeconomic factors impact the Fed’s final decision—and until they announce their decision, it’s never set in stone—one thing is all but certain: Electricity prices will continue to rise. The faster you install solar, the sooner you can save on your electric bills.

The 30% residential solar tax credit—long considered one of the best solar incentives—is set to disappear after December 31, 2025. Under President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), the credit will end abruptly in three months, with no phase-out period as originally planned. On the surface, that might sound like a devastating blow for solar savings, but the reality is more complex.

For millions of American homeowners, losing this credit won’t actually change their financial outlook when it comes to solar. The tax incentive only applies if you owe enough in federal income taxes to take advantage of it, so people like retirees on fixed incomes, families with little to no annual tax bill, and students just starting their careers couldn’t always cash in anyway. For these households, the cost of solar—and the savings it delivers—remain the same.

The federal solar tax credit doesn’t apply to every household

The residential solar tax credit is nonrefundable, which means it can only reduce the amount of federal income tax you owe—it can’t generate a refund or a check in the mail. In other words, if your tax bill is already low or nonexistent, you won’t see much benefit from this incentive.

However, one major benefit is that homeowners can carry forward unused credits to future tax years, so if you don’t have a tax bill this year, but you will in following years, you’re still able to take advantage of the credit. Still, the nonrefundable structure has always limited who can truly take advantage of the federal solar tax credit. 

Retirees who don't owe much federal income tax

Many retirees rely on sources of income like Social Security, which aren’t subject to federal income taxes. That means retired people often owe little to nothing in federal taxes—and without a tax bill, there’s nothing to apply the solar tax credit to. When your main income streams are tax-exempt, you simply don’t qualify for much of the benefit.

Unlike employed people, who may owe little in taxes one year, but can carry the solar tax credit forward to offset higher tax bills in future years, many retirees have a monthly income that rarely changes, meaning those future tax years with enough liability may never come. However, if you have multiple retirement accounts, it’s possible to create tax liability by working with a financial advisor in some situations. A licensed financial professional can help you assess your options.

Families or individuals with little to no annual tax bill

The solar tax credit can't be applied if other deductions or credits have already reduced your tax bill to zero. Many households with multiple children, substantial mortgage interest, or other significant deductions find their federal income tax bill reduced to zero before accounting for solar credits.

Similar to retirees, households with very low taxable income often don’t owe enough to claim the credit. Families earning below certain thresholds may have minimal federal tax bills after standard deductions and other credits. The solar tax credit’s nonrefundable nature means unused amounts can’t be converted into a refund or cash, limiting the potential financial benefits for those households.

Students or young adults just starting out

People early in their careers often earn less and may not have a high enough tax bill to benefit from the credit. Entry-level salaries, student loan interest deductions, and other factors common among young adults frequently result in minimal federal tax bills.

Renters who don't own their home

The solar tax credit only applies to solar energy system owners. If you don’t own your home, you don’t own the solar panels on it, and you can’t claim the credit. That’s why a significant portion of American households—those who rent rather than own their homes—could never take advantage of this incentive in the first place, meaning they aren’t missing out now that it’s disappearing.

The end of the federal solar tax credit may matter less than you think

Losing the residential solar tax credit was an unexpected shift, but the solar industry is strong enough to adapt. Even without federal subsidies, solar remains financially attractive for most homeowners because it eliminates or significantly reduces their increasingly expensive electric bills. Over the course of 25 years, most homeowners can save anywhere between $34,000 and $120,000 on their electric bills by going solar—far more than the value of the upfront tax credit.

Solar costs have also dropped dramatically over time. Ten years ago, a home solar installation cost $3.36 per watt—28% more than the average prices seen on EnergySage today. Meanwhile, rising electricity rates continue strengthening the financial case for going solar, making it a smart investment even without federal incentives.

Of course, the elimination of the residential solar tax credit (25D) makes solar slightly more expensive for some people. On average, an EnergySage solar shopper who goes solar in 2025 will break even in about seven years. Without the federal tax credit, that same system on the same roof would take just over 10 years to pay for itself. While that’s a longer timeline, it still represents a solid return for homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for more than a decade. Solar after the loss of 25D requires more patience, but it’s still worth it.

State and local incentives continue

Federal policy isn’t the only factor that makes solar more affordable. Many states offer their own tax credits, which can be claimed in addition to federal incentives. Utilities, manufacturers, cities, and local governments often provide rebates, performance-based incentives, or other programs that remain unaffected by the federal credit’s expiration.

Homeowners may also benefit from net metering, a policy that allows them to sell excess solar energy back to the grid, offsetting their electricity costs even further. In some states, you can earn solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) for the power your system produces, creating an additional income stream. These state and local programs can significantly shorten the payback period for solar panel systems, ensuring strong returns even without the federal tax credit.

Your solar timeline hasn't changed if you can’t use the credit

For many households, losing a credit they couldn’t use anyway doesn’t change the real benefits of going solar: Lower electric bills, long-term savings, and protection against rising energy costs.

Even for homeowners who could’ve taken advantage of the federal tax credit but missed it, solar remains a strong investment on its own. While the end of the federal incentive is a notable policy shift, it doesn’t diminish the fundamental value of going solar. For most Americans, the economics of solar energy make it worth investing in.

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A lot has been said about solar energy lately—and not all of it’s true. For homeowners, it can sometimes be tough to separate fact from fiction. Is solar a scam, as some critics suggest? Does the manufacturing process erase its environmental benefits?

The short answer to both of these questions is a resounding no. Solar is a proven, reliable technology. It’s not a scam; it’s a cornerstone of the country’s clean energy transition and one of the most effective tools we have to shrink the energy sector’s carbon footprint—along with the carbon footprint of many other industries.

Still, that doesn’t mean panels are impact-free. Like any manufactured product, it takes energy and industrial materials to produce them efficiently and at scale. However, those impacts are more manageable than those of other similar industries, and solar has made major progress in cleaning up its supply chain.

“We’re aware of the environmental impacts, and we're holding ourselves accountable as an industry,” George McClellan, senior manager of technical sales at REC Group, told EnergySage. “The industry is moving in the right direction. We've made great strides.”

“Most solar panels don’t have any materials or chemicals that exceed the EPA toxicity levels,” he said. “There can be a tiny amount of lead in some panels, but it’s typically below the threshold limit set by the EPA.” 

What matters most is the net environmental payoff. Once installed, solar panels don’t release harmful substances, generate clean electricity for 25+ years, and are backed by ongoing improvements in manufacturing and recycling practices.

The environmental cost—and payoff—of making solar panels

Yes, making solar panels has an environmental impact, just like manufacturing any other product. Solar cells, or the part of a solar panel that actually generates electricity, start as silicon, which comes from heated quartz. This manufacturing process involves chemicals that can be harmful if not handled properly—the key phrase being, “if not handled properly."

“It’s not so much that the cell is problematic as the processing is. It uses a lot of energy and water,” McClellan said, noting that this process also contributes to removing hazardous materials from entering the environment. 

One of the biggest concerns is silicon tetrachloride. If dumped carelessly, this chemical can cause burns and air pollution. Fortunately, it pays off for manufacturers to recycle this back into new solar panels because it saves them money. It's a win-win situation where doing the right thing also makes financial sense.  

“It’s important to understand whether the company has good stewardship,” McClellan said. “You need to make sure that you're not working with companies that are less than aboveboard with reporting. It's got to be transparent.”

Research shows that a single solar panel only takes about three years to offset the emissions from its production and transportation, thanks to its renewable electricity generation. Since panels last 25 to 30 years, that provides decades of completely carbon-free energy production.

Solar panel manufacturing keeps getting cleaner

Today’s solar industry looks very different than it did in its early decades. Twenty years ago, lead was much more widely used in solar panel manufacturing, and improper waste disposal raised legitimate concerns, especially in countries with weaker regulations. 

“There’s been a big wave of consciousness around [the environmental impact of manufacturing] over the past five years. We're now manufacturing in a less toxic fashion,” McClellan said.

“As an industry, we’re moving towards understanding the environmental impacts of manufacturing, as well as post-manufacturing and end-of-life effects. That wasn't understood as well twenty years ago when I jumped into this industry,” he said.

While a better awareness of the materials and chemicals used in the making of solar panels has lessened their impact on the environment, solar panel disposal is still a cause for concern to many people. Historically, landfills have been the cheaper and easier way to dispose of decommissioned solar panels, which poses a toxic waste problem. But contrary to popular belief, it’s a problem we can manage. 

"[Solar cell] waste is very manageable and should not delay deployment—it's not a reason to slow down," Teresa Barnes, director of the Durable Module Materials (DuraMAT) Consortium, said to NREL in an interview. "We will have less waste from [solar panels] than we do from traditional fossil sources of electricity, and it's less toxic than some of the other fossil energy waste. These end-of-life [solar cell] materials are something we can handle."

Solar panel recycling eases end-of-life waste concerns

Recycling solar panels at the end of their lifespan is becoming increasingly common. Some manufacturers, like REC and Qcells, already offer recycling programs for their customers. As solar adoption grows, recycling programs and specialized companies are expected to expand and become a standard part of the industry.

Solar panels are safe to put on your roof

Solar panels are safe, clean, and one of the smartest investments you can make for both the environment and your wallet. Manufacturing involves some chemicals, but the industry has largely addressed these concerns through improved practices and oversight.

Once those panels are generating electricity on your roof, they'll produce clean energy for decades with zero emissions. Their manufacturing footprint gets paid back quickly through clean energy production, especially as solar technology keeps improving.

As McClellan puts it, “The benefits are going to continue to grow, and the environmental cost will continue to shrink. We're moving in the right direction on both.”

With the September 30th deadline approaching to claim the federal tax credit for your electric vehicle (EV) charger installation, many EV owners are weighing their options for home charging. Driving an EV means cleaner, more efficient transportation and freedom from routine gas station stops. But to get the most out of your EV, you’ll want the convenience of charging at home.

Most drivers upgrade to a Level 2 charging station when they buy an EV. Although most cars come standard with an installation-free Level 1 charger that plugs into a regular wall outlet, it’s much slower than Level 2 chargers. Most people prefer to spend the money on a faster Level 2 option to ensure they start each day with a full battery.

Installing one, however, isn’t a DIY project you should try to take on yourself. A safe, reliable setup depends on the right professional, and in this case, that means hiring a licensed electrician who’s qualified to install EV chargers. While time is of the essence to cash in on federal EV tax credits, don’t let the tax credit deadline push you into rushing the process. Choosing the right installer now will save you money—and headaches—later.

Why you should never DIY your EV charger installation

Installing an EV charger isn't as simple as mounting a TV or replacing a light fixture. It involves high-voltage electrical work that requires specialized knowledge, proper permits, and adherence to local electrical codes.

"Only a licensed electrical professional can provide expert knowledge, safety, accountability, and ultimately peace of mind that can prevent expensive future costs and life-threatening hazards,” Vernon Riggs, senior vice president at Qmerit, told EnergySage.

EV chargers typically require 240-volt circuits—the same voltage that powers your electric dryer or oven. Even though they’re common, incorrectly installing this type of circuit can lead to electrical fires, damage to your home's electrical system, or worse. Licensed electricians have the training to handle these installations safely and ensure they meet all safety standards.

Beyond safety, there's the question of accountability. When you hire a licensed professional, you're not just paying for their time; you're investing in their expertise, insurance coverage, and ability to stand behind their work. 

"While a handyman or well-meaning unlicensed individuals may try to work cheaper, the risks to your property, finances, and family are much too great,” Riggs said.

The hidden costs of cutting corners

That bargain installation from your neighbor who's handy with electrical stuff might seem tempting, but the potential consequences far outweigh any upfront savings. Unpermitted or incorrectly installed electrical work can void your homeowner's insurance, exposing you financially if something goes wrong. In some cases, improperly installed systems must be completely redone, making that "cheap" installation the most expensive option.

As Riggs points out, "If the work is done without a permit, who pays to correct it, who is fined, and how much legal trouble will there be when it's discovered in the future?"

How to find trusted EV charger installers near you

While you can start by asking local electricians about their EV charger experience, checking reviews, or even reaching out to your EV manufacturer’s installer network, these approaches can take time and may not guarantee a qualified match.

That’s why EnergySage recommends Qmerit. Qmerit operates a nationwide network of licensed electricians who are specifically trained and certified for EV charger installations. Just like EnergySage, Qmerit carefully vets every installer for licensing, insurance, and experience—so you can confidently and quickly connect with trusted professionals in your area.

Key questions to ask when hiring an electrician 

Your family electrician may not have experience with EV charger installations, however, so it's important to vet your options carefully. Riggs recommends asking the following questions when interviewing a potential electrician:

• Do you have liability and workers' compensation insurance? This protects you if something goes wrong during installation or a worker gets injured on your property. Any licensed electrician should have both types of coverage and be willing to provide proof.

• Do you provide any warranties? Professional EV installers should stand behind their work. Look for electricians who offer warranties on both their labor as well as any equipment they provide.

• Will you pull the necessary permits? Proper EV charger installation requires electrical permits in most areas. A qualified electrician will handle this process and ensure their work meets local building codes.

Going with the pros is worth it

While it’s true that a professional installation will cost more upfront than any DIY or unlicensed alternatives, working with a qualified electrician is the clear choice when considering the safety risks, potential insurance issues, and long-term reliability concerns.

Your EV is a significant investment, and a properly installed home charging station is critical to that equation. The right charging setup ensures you can reliably charge your vehicle while protecting your home's electrical system, saving you even more money. Take the time to find the right professional installer: It sets the foundation for years of trouble-free charging from the comfort of your own home.

If you're already saving money with an electric vehicle (EV), adding solar panels to the mix transforms solid savings into extraordinary ones.

The math is compelling: Charging your EV with solar panels typically only costs about $200-$300 each year—compared to around $600-$700 with grid electricity, and about $2,500 for a comparable gas vehicle.

That's right—powering your electric car with sunshine costs less than most people spend on coffee each year.

Solar charging cuts EV costs by 60% compared to grid power

The financial advantage of solar-powered EV charging extends far beyond the pump. Over 25 years, the average driver charging an EV with solar panels can save more than $14,000 compared to using grid energy and as much as $70,000 compared to fueling a gas car.

These aren't hypothetical projections—they're based on current energy costs and typical driving patterns. The average American drives about 13,500 miles each year, and with solar panels generating electricity at roughly $0.05 per per mile, the economics become undeniable. That's less than half the national average grid rate of $0.15 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and a fraction of public charging station costs.

The price stability matters as much as the savings. Since 1990, grid energy has increased by an average of almost 2% annually, while gas prices have risen almost 4% annually over the last century. Solar panel owners who use their system to charge their EVs escape this endless price escalation entirely.

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Breaking down the real numbers: How much you'll actually save

Let's get specific about what these savings look like for the average American driver. Here's how the annual costs stack up:

• Solar charging: $200-300 per year

• Grid charging: $600-700 per year

• Gas vehicle: $2,500 per year

• Public charging stations: $1,000 per year

The gap widens dramatically over time. Over 25 years of charging an EV on solar, the average driver will spend tens of thousands of dollars less than if they charged using grid energy. Factor in rising electricity rates and volatile gas prices, and the savings multiply.

You need about 6-10 solar panels to power your EV

The beauty of solar-powered EV charging lies in its simplicity. It will take the power of anywhere from about six to 10 solar panels to charge the average electric vehicle, though the exact number varies based on your driving habits and location.

For most homeowners, this means adding six to 10 panels to their existing system or planning for a slightly larger system if they're going solar for the first time. Most solar panels today have a 400-watt power output, and with average driving patterns requiring about 362 kWh monthly, the math works out to roughly a 2.4 kW addition to your solar system.

When you consider the thousands saved annually on fuel costs, most homeowners see a return on investment within three to five years.

Smart charging strategies maximize your savings

To fully capitalize on solar-powered EV charging, you'll need more than just panels on your roof. A Level 2 home charger maximizes efficiency, while battery storage systems let you bank sunshine for overnight charging.

The configuration matters too. Solar-compatible smart chargers can prioritize using your panels' output during peak production hours, ensuring you're using free solar energy rather than drawing from your local power grid. Some systems even allow you to set charging schedules that align with your solar production patterns.

Time-of-use electricity rates add another layer of savings potential. By charging during off-peak hours when you can't use solar (like overnight), then selling your solar power back to the grid during peak rate periods, some homeowners actually profit from their setup if there's a good net metering policy in their state.

Federal incentives make 2025 the year to act

The window for maximum savings is closing fast. The 30% federal solar tax credit expires after December 31, 2025, potentially adding thousands to the cost of going solar if you wait.

Electric vehicle incentives expire even sooner, on September 30, 2025, so if you want to take advantage of those federal tax credits—up to $7,500 for new EVs and $4,000 for used ones—stack these incentives with state and local rebates, and the combined solar-EV investment becomes even more financially attractive.

Many states offer additional incentives for home charging equipment, and some utilities provide rebates for solar installations specifically designed to support EV charging. The convergence of these programs in 2025 creates an unprecedented opportunity for savings.

Beyond dollars: Energy independence and grid stability

While the financial benefits alone justify the investment, solar-powered EV charging delivers value beyond your bank account. Every kilowatt-hour generated on your roof is one less demanded from an increasingly strained electrical grid.

Using solar panels to fuel your electric car reduces your carbon footprint to essentially zero. Unlike grid charging, which often relies on fossil fuel generation, solar ensures your daily commute runs on 100% renewable energy—which matters more as extreme weather events and peak demand periods stress the grid. Homeowners with solar-plus-storage systems maintain transportation capability even during outages—a growing concern as climate events intensify.

The distributed nature of rooftop solar also helps stabilize the broader grid. As EV adoption accelerates and data centers multiply their energy demands, home solar installations provide crucial capacity without requiring massive infrastructure investments that ultimately show up on everyone's utility bills.

For homeowners ready to maximize their clean energy savings, it makes financial sense to combine your EV with solar panels. With federal incentives set to expire and electricity rates continuing their relentless climb, there's never been a better time to power your EV with sunshine—watch your transportation costs plummet as your energy independence soars.

California electricity prices have nearly doubled in the last decade—and the supply cost of power isn’t to blame. 

The average price of electricity in the Golden State soared a whopping 96% between 2014 and 2024, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Electricity rates surged especially high between 2021 and 2023, climbing by double-digit percentages year-over-year and spiking more than 14% between 2022 and 2023 alone.

Even after adjusting for inflation, real electricity prices in California—electricity’s value adjusted for inflation to reflect purchasing power over time—rose by more than 20% from 2021 to 2024, according to economists Jenya Kahn-Lang and Jesse Buchsbaum of Resources For the Future (RFF). By contrast, in many other states, electricity rates only increased at around the same rate or more slowly than inflation, largely because wholesale power prices stayed stable.

If not inflation, what’s causing the massive jump in California’s electric bills? Expensive—but necessary and long-overdue—investments in utility infrastructure upgrades aimed at addressing aging equipment and worsening extreme weather drive the state’s rising rates. At the center of it all are wildfires. 

The frequency and intensity of wildfires on the West Coast have increased in recent years, due to both climate change and preventable utility equipment failures. California has shouldered the brunt of these destructive events, but it won’t be the last state to face the steep price of resilience in a changing climate. 

“California is an outlier, but it's also a harbinger,” Severin Borenstein, professor at UC Berkeley Haas School of Business and faculty director of the Energy Institute, told EnergySage. “We have drastically higher rates, but that’s not a function of higher wholesale costs—those have risen almost exactly in line with inflation.”

“They're a result of dealing with climate change,” he said. “Extreme weather impacts electricity systems and requires new investments, which feed into rates.”

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Wildfires fuel electricity rate hikes in California

Kahn-Lang and Buchsbaum break down electricity system costs into four categories: Power production, transmission, distribution, and other expenses. Their analysis shows that transmission and distribution—not production—are the main drivers of electricity rate hikes. In California, inflation-adjusted distribution costs have increased by 18% since 2021. 

Transmission and distribution costs reflect the massive investments needed to build new grid resources. These expenses are especially burdensome in regions hit by increasingly frequent and severe weather events, like California’s wildfires.

“The recent price increases in California are primarily due to wildfires,” Kahn-Lang told EnergySage. “Californians are paying for past wildfires and for upgrades to the power grid to prevent and reduce the spread of future wildfires. Utilities are responsible for the costs of the wildfires in California. As we've seen in the past, that’s a huge amount of money.”

California is a harbinger for the rest of the country

As Borenstein put it, California is as much a harbinger as it is an outlier. The state’s skyrocketing electricity prices foreshadow what’s likely to come nationwide, as wildfires, floods, hurricanes, and storms require badly needed investments in new and improved grid resources. 

“California is already there, but I think a lot of other states will soon be there, too,” Borenstein said. “Look at the wildfires in Washington and Oregon and the flooding in Texas. To be realistic about increasingly extreme weather, they’re going to have to make more investments, and typically those end up getting loaded into rates.” 

Borenstein also pointed to other states that also face major transmission and distribution costs. “Maine comes to mind—they have real problems with reliability and have had to make some very expensive investments,” he said.

Kahn-Lang echoed Borenstein’s assessment: “In some sense, California is an isolated case, but extreme weather events are becoming more common across the country, so we may see more price increases related to extreme events in other states going forward,” she said. “We’re seeing some interesting patterns [in transmission and distribution prices] elsewhere. Maine really stands out in that analysis.”

Power grid strain mounts as data centers boom and solar incentives expire

Climate disasters aren’t the only factor driving up transmission and distribution costs. Electricity demand is projected to jump far beyond what the current grid can reliably handle, fueled in large part by the rapid growth of generative AI. Data center electricity demand alone is expected to grow 130% by the end of the decade. To meet this, states must build new generation sources on top of the investments already being made in infrastructure upgrades. 

Although California’s electricity prices are an extreme case, the rest of the country isn’t immune to future spikes.

“If you take California out of the national average, the rest of the country’s [electricity prices] did not increase faster than inflation; it increased slightly slower than inflation,” Borenstein said. “But that's not to say they won't increase faster in the future, particularly given data center demand.”

Building new power plants and upgrading transmission and distribution infrastructure takes years, even without extreme weather disruptions. On top of that, recent roll backs of federal clean energy incentives and harmful political rhetoric will make it harder and more expensive to develop new renewable generation sources, which deploy faster than their fossil fuel counterparts. All of this is happening at a time when electricity demand is surging, creating additional pressure on the grid and making higher rates almost inevitable.

How to protect yourself against rising electricity prices

For homeowners, installing solar panels is one of the most effective ways to protect themselves against soaring electricity costs. It lets you generate your own power and rely less on a grid already stretched thin by extreme weather, aging infrastructure, and growing demand.

The financial case for going solar is especially strong right now: If you install a solar panel system before the 30% federal solar tax credit expires at the end of 2025, you can take advantage of one of the last major federal incentives available for clean energy. 

With or without federal support, solar offers both long-term energy and financial stability. By generating your own power, you can avoid skyrocketing California rates and stay ahead of the rising grid issues proliferating across the country.

As extreme weather and power outages become more frequent and intense, energy resilience—the ability to keep power on when the grid fails—is no longer a luxury but a necessity.

Energy resilience can take many forms, from massive solar projects that keep entire communities running to a couple of batteries tucked away in your garage. We spoke with entrepreneurs and homeowners across that spectrum to learn practical ways anyone can boost their power security, no matter the budget.

'America's first solar-powered town' never lost power during a Category 4 hurricane

Syd Kitson, a former NFL player turned sustainability developer, founded Babcock Ranch—a solar-powered town in Southwest Florida with over 5,000 residents. In 2022, Hurricane Ian put his vision to the ultimate test: The Category 4 storm hit the community head-on with 160 mph winds.

"I can remember sitting in my home and watching the weather, and the weather person said, 'it's headed right for Babcock Ranch,'" said Kitson. "That thing sat on top of us for eight hours."

The devastating hurricane knocked out power to over 4.45 million homes and businesses across the state, but Babcock Ranch never lost power.

The town’s secret isn’t just solar panels and batteries—though the community had both ready to deploy—but thoughtful infrastructure planning. Babcock partnered with Florida Power & Light to weather-proof its electrical grid, including burying all power lines and using concrete poles. Combined with strategic construction around natural waterways, the community was prepared to endure the hurricane.

"Everything we had worked on, everything we had done to plan for this, had worked. And it really proved out that if you do the right thing and you think ahead of time of what needs to be done, you can be very successful," Kitson said.

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A YouTube creator built a net-zero home with a $90k solar energy system (and doesn’t regret it)

You may have heard of Matt Ferrell, who created the popular YouTube channel Undecided with Matt Ferrell. His energy resilience journey started small: He bought solar panels and a battery at his previous Massachusetts home to provide additional peace of mind during New England winter storms.

When designing his new eco-friendly home, Ferrell went all-in with a solar and battery system large enough to achieve net-zero energy use, which means it produces as much energy as his family consumes. The investment cost was about $90,000, but he says it was worth it.

"There's just no worry. Once, I was sitting at my computer, and the power was out in the neighborhood, and we never knew,” he said, explaining the benefits of adding solar and storage to his home. “It's that sense of security for my family, knowing that we won't have spoiled food in the fridge, knowing that we don't have to worry about this kind of stuff…to me, that sense of relief makes it all worthwhile."

Ferrell said the solar energy system will save him $196,000 over 30 years, but he emphasizes his approach isn't for everyone.

"I look at the content that I've been putting together as a menu,” he said.“ Look at all the different options, but you don't have to do all the options." A system design that works well for one property may not work for another, and homeowners have varying energy priorities.

A Florida homeowner ditched his gas generator for solar and batteries

Army veteran Adam Lawrence lives in Orlando, Florida, with six family members and was experiencing regular power outages. There were just enough to be genuinely frustrating—and push him into taking action.

"We probably have an outage once a quarter or something like that for a few hours. And if it's nighttime in Florida, it's tough to sleep if your AC goes out," he said.

Lawrence first tried a traditional generator, but said the experience was miserable.

"I remember we lost power, and it was raining, and it was 3 a.m. We had a little AC window unit, and I had to get that working because we had a 7-month-old," said Lawrence. "So I'm out there hooking up propane tanks, getting the generators, setting up the interlock…and that's when I was like, 'Okay, I’ve got to figure something else out.'"

Plus, the generator was loud. "Running a generator at two in the morning is fine for me because my AC's on and I can sleep, but it's not the best for my buddy and his wife who live next door."

This past summer, Lawrence installed solar panels and batteries. It doesn’t zero out his energy use like Ferrell’s, but the system produces about two-thirds of their family's daily energy needs and provides backup power when needed, which Lawrence says is enough.

“You never really know how bad things can get, and seeing these things happen across the world, a lot of people think this can't happen here. But it can, and I'd rather be prepared for it than not,” Lawrence said.

A New Hampshire couple planning for energy security

In rural Pyrmont, New Hampshire, where there are fewer than 800 residents, Vernon and Jane Jones spent over two decades dreaming about going solar before contacting an installer in August. For them, power outages aren’t only inconvenient, but also impact their access to water from their drilled well—a critical necessity on their property

"With that kind of grid dependency, we really didn't want to have a problem and be without water for weeks at a time," Vernon said.

“We need to protect our water supply if we should need it, or if anybody around us needs it when the power goes out,” Jane added.

Timing also worked in their favor: The Joneses are scheduled for an October installation, so they were able to secure the 30% federal tax credit before it expires at the end of 2025. This will help them save around $9,000 on their roughly $30,000 investment.

The true value of energy resilience goes beyond money

Installing a solar battery isn’t cheap. It typically costs about $11,000, but your ultimate electric bill savings also depends on other factors like where you live and how much energy your household uses daily.

That means that batteries may not make financial sense for every homeowner. But as Ferrell explains, "It's not just about the finances—it's also about energy security. I keep hammering home on that, because it's hard to put a price on that.”

Ferrell said the good news is that battery prices continue dropping over time, and new, more affordable options are hitting the market every day. However, he’s the first to admit that solar batteries aren’t the best solution for everyone.

"Don't take me as saying everybody should go get a battery, because everybody's use case will be different,” he explained. But if you're very concerned about energy security because of tornadoes or hurricanes or blackout conditions, or if you live in Florida…a battery is probably where you should be looking first."

If you can’t afford a battery or aren’t ready to make the financial commitment, there are more affordable ways to improve your home’s safety and efficiency with other simple clean energy upgrades.

“Home insulation is the lowest hanging fruit,” Ferrell said. “If you have access to a home energy audit, that will be the best money you can ever spend on your house. They'll give you recommendations, and then you can take it from there.”

As the country’s electrical grid faces increasing challenges—from severe weather to growing power demand from AI data centers and electric vehicles—energy security will only become more critical. Whether you're planning a comprehensive system like Matt's net-zero home, a practical solution like Adam's backup setup, or just getting started with solar like Vernon and Jane, the key is taking that first step toward home resiliency, no matter how small that step is.

You're working from home when the lights flicker and go out. Your internet dies, your refrigerator stops humming, and you're left wondering how long you could be in the dark.

If you're like most Americans, you're likely to experience about 5.6 hours of power outages each year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). While that might not sound like much time, even short blackouts can be expensive—and longer ones can cost you thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.

The financial impact of losing power extends far beyond a slightly higher electric bill. Between potential property damage, emergency supplies, spoiled groceries, and lost productivity, power outages can hit your wallet hard. But here's the thing: You can plan ahead and avoid being at the mercy of an unreliable power grid.

Solar batteries are also changing the game for homeowners who want to take control of their energy security. When paired with solar panels, these backup systems can keep your lights on and your food fresh—and even offer a lifeline to neighbors if needed. We'll break down exactly what power outages could cost you and how investing in energy storage might be one of the smartest financial decisions you make for your home.

Key takeaways

How much does a power outage cost?

Your level of preparation and the duration of the power outage will partially determine how much it will cost you. Here are some of the most common costs associated with power outages:

Major power outage costs

Spoiled food

Cost: about $200 for a fridge full of groceries

If you have a fridge and/or freezer full of perishable food and your power outage lasts more than a day, you'll likely experience significant food waste.

During a power outage, keep your refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible to retain the cold air. Food in the fridge will generally stay fresh for a day after an outage, and food in the freezer will stay frozen for a day to a day and a half if you keep it closed.

If your power outage lasts more than a few hours, make sure to check your food for signs of spoilage before consumption.

Emergency supplies

Cost: about $25 - $100, depending on what you need

Stocking up on emergency supplies is the best way to prepare for a power outage. Especially if you're notified of a planned shutdown or you're aware of extreme weather heading your way, plan to have the following on hand:

• Firewood and fuel source

• Candles

• Flashlight

• Extra batteries

• Portable phone charger (with a full charge)

• Non-perishable foods (at least enough for one week for your entire household)

• Extra bottled water (at least enough for one week for your household, including pets)

Lost productivity

Cost: about $200, assuming you make $25/hour and miss a full day of work

During a power outage, you'll lose your internet connection. So, if you need it to do your job, it could mean losing actual wages if you're an hourly worker or having to take a personal day if you're a salaried employee.

The cost of your lost productivity will vary significantly depending on your unique situation, but you should consider it if you frequently experience power outages.

Property damage

Cost: anywhere from $500 - $25,000, depending on the severity of the damage

You may not experience any property damage during a power outage. Or, an outage could cost you thousands of dollars. Either way, it's important to be aware of the potential risks.

When a power outage ends, the large surge of electricity that goes to your home can damage your electronics. To protect your property, make sure you either unplug or use a surge protector for major electronics like computers and televisions.

It's more difficult to avoid damage directly to your house. For example, if the outage occurs during a hurricane and you can't run your sump pump, you could experience flooding in your basement. This could cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to $25,000!

Similarly, if the outage occurs during a winter storm and you lose heat, your pipes could burst (something that happened to quite a few people during the 2021 Texas freeze), costing anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Alternative housing

Cost: about $150/night, depending on the location and quality of the hotel

Sometimes, the damage to your home from an outage is bad enough that you need to find alternative housing. You also could decide that your need for power is worth paying the cost of a hotel.

Your costs here depend on where you're looking for alternative housing, the quality of the hotel, and how long you need to stay there. If you have a friend or family member nearby with power, it's always worth checking if you can stay with them!

How much do power outages cost businesses?

Are power outages dangerous?

Absolutely! These are some of the biggest health risks associated with power outages:

• Spoiled food. Remember how we mentioned that food could spoil quickly without refrigeration? If you've ever gotten food poisoning, you know that eating spoiled can lead to misery and serious health risks.

• Mold buildup. Water damage from flooding can cause harmful mold to form in your house.

• Extreme heat/cold. During extreme heat or cold, not having access to air conditioning or heating (assuming you also lose heat during the outage, which isn't always the case) can present a high risk.

• Medical device failure. If you need to store medication in a fridge or require electricity to power medical devices, you need to have a reliable backup source for power outages.

Outside of your home, you should be cautious around downed power lines (always assume they're active) and extra careful at traffic lights that aren't working.

How to protect yourself from power outages

Solar panels on their own don't work during a power outage. But if you install batteries with your solar panels, you'll have a reliable backup source—and it won't be noisy or require refueling like a generator.

Batteries turn your home into an "energy island," allowing you to keep your devices powered regardless of the grid's condition. With a large enough battery system, you can keep your fridge, sump pump, AC/heating source, and medical devices running, significantly reducing the health risks associated with power outages.

Modern battery systems are designed to automatically kick in when the grid goes down, so you might not even notice when an outage happens. This seamless backup power can save you from the financial headaches and safety risks that come with extended power loss, making energy storage a smart investment for your home's resiliency and your peace of mind.

While virtually no clean energy program survived this summer’s legislative process unscathed, the 30% residential solar tax credit (Section 25D of the U.S. tax code) got the shorter end of the stick compared to its commercial counterpart, the 48E tax credit—meaning leasing solar panels may now be more affordable than buying them yourself. 

Signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)  dramatically narrowed the timeline for homeowners to claim the federal solar tax credit. The Biden-era Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 had extended the residential credit through 2034, but under current law, it now expires at the end of 2025. To qualify, homeowner-owned systems must be installed by December 31, 2025.

However, solar companies that offer third-party ownership (TPO) solar models—such as solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs)—can still claim the 30% commercial solar tax credit under Section 48E after 2025, albeit with new restrictions and a condensed timeline. TPO projects will remain eligible as long as construction begins before July 4, 2026, or if the system is placed in service by December 31, 2027. This effectively gives TPO projects an additional two years of eligibility compared to homeowner-owned eligibility, which is being cut short at the end of this year.

In addition to the OBBBA, persistently high interest rates have also set the stage for more growth in TPO solar models, according to the 21st edition of the EnergySage Intel: Solar & Storage Marketplace Report. 

“By cutting nearly a decade off the residential solar credit, the OBBBA abruptly reshaped the economics of going solar,” said Emily Walker, director of insights at EnergySage and author of the organization’s 21st Marketplace Report. “Homeowners interested in purchasing a solar panel system in cash will need to move quickly, while providers offering TPO products can continue to leverage federal incentives for a bit longer.”

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Some states will benefit more from TPO than others

The limited continuation of 48E for TPO projects offers a silver lining as the residential solar market adjusts to the loss of 25D and other headwinds, including steep tariffs and increasingly hostile political rhetoric. But access to these benefits isn’t universal. States that allow solar PPAs and leases are much better positioned to weather federal policy changes, while those that restrict TPO are likely to see solar adoption slow.

TPO solar explained

TPO, or leased, solar panel systems are installed on residential rooftops, but are considered commercial equipment for tax purposes because they stay under the ownership of the solar company—not the homeowner. Homeowners use the electricity generated and pay the solar company monthly, often at rates lower than those of the utility. Since the system remains under company ownership, the solar company claims the tax benefits, not the homeowner. 

With leases and PPAs, homeowners typically sign long-term agreements—usually 20 to 25 years—while the solar provider maintains ownership of the physical panels. This setup requires little to no upfront cost and removes maintenance responsibilities from homeowners, but the major downside to leasing is that it almost always provides much less long-term savings than owning a system outright that is purchased with cash or a loan.

Solar lease vs. power purchase agreement (PPA)

PPAs and solar leases are similar, but not interchangeable. The key difference is how you’re charged for your power each month. With a PPA, homeowners agree to pay a set price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity produced by the solar panel system, and you pay based on the amount of electricity you use every month. That means that your monthly bill will vary depending on how much energy you use. For example, your bill will likely be higher in the summer months when you’re using your air conditioning every day. 

If you’re looking for a predictable monthly payment that never changes, a solar lease may be a better option. A solar lease charges a flat monthly fee to use the system regardless of how much energy you use every month. In either case, the rate is usually lower than the local utility’s electricity rate, which should generate monthly bill savings right off the bat. 

Both models allow households to avoid upfront installation costs, though they sacrifice direct ownership and the financial savings that come with the ability to claim tax credits yourself.

2026 could be a breakout year for TPO solar

The elimination of the residential credit makes it more expensive for homeowners to purchase solar panel systems outright—but as electricity rates continue to rise and show no signs of slowing down, the economics of going solar still remain strong, even without tax incentives. At the same time, the partial preservation of 48E strengthens the case for TPO projects: Because solar providers can still claim a 30% credit against their installation costs, customers will ideally continue to see lower prices than if the credit had been eliminated entirely.

The extra two years of commercial tax credit eligibility create a meaningful buffer for the industry. Installers and financiers will be able to continue building out residential solar projects while capturing federal credits, even as the residential credit disappears for homeowner-owned systems. Combined with high interest rates that have discouraged solar loan financing, this policy is expected to push more homeowners toward TPO offerings.

“That extra time is consequential for installers,” Walker explained. “It allows them to continue developing residential projects with the tax credit, even as the credit for purchased systems disappears. For some homeowners, that will make TPO the most accessible entry point into solar.”

Local policies will drive—or block—TPO solar adoption

Homeowners’ access to TPO financing depends heavily on where they live.

Some states explicitly allow both PPAs and leases, others ban them outright, and many fall into a gray area where policies remain unclear. For example, Florida bans PPAs but allows solar leases. If you live in a state that restricts access to PPAs, you may still be able to benefit from TPO solar through a lease model.

While the table in this section outlines PPA availability, information on solar leases is less consistently documented. Homeowners interested in lease availability should check with their state’s public utilities commission (PUC) for the most up-to-date information.

In states where TPO is permitted, solar companies can continue to claim the 30% federal credit through Section 48E, and may choose to pass those savings along to customers even as the residential credit disappears. That tax advantage helps insulate those markets from policy-driven slowdowns. With interest rates still high, households in these states also gain access to little-to-no-upfront-cost options that make solar financially viable. 

By contrast, states that prohibit or restrict TPO may see adoption stall. Homeowners in these markets will be left with cash purchases or loans as their only financing options. Although most solar loans these days require no down payment and no additional upfront investment, having a TPO option available still gives homeowners more choice overall. Without the federal solar tax credit, customers face longer solar payback periods, or the time it takes to break even on a solar investment. In states with relatively low electricity rates, like Washington, going solar may not even make financial sense once the residential solar tax credit disappears. 

“In states that allow TPO, providers can continue developing projects with the support of federal incentives,” Walker said. “But in states that restrict leases and PPAs, the loss of the residential tax credit extends payback periods significantly in areas with lower electricity rates, potentially slowing adoption.”

PPA access by state

Even without tax credits, rising electricity prices keep solar attractive

Even as federal incentives shift under the OBBBA, rising electricity prices continue to push homeowners toward solar. Electric bills are climbing steadily across the country, which is a trend unlikely to slow down amid the surge in AI data center–driven demand, which will only continue to grow.

While the loss of the residential tax credit will raise the cost of solar ownership in the near term and uneven state policies limit access to TPO, the core economics remain compelling. For most homeowners, solar is still one of the most effective ways to stabilize your energy costs in the face of electricity rate volatility, political uncertainty, and our changing climate.

America's power grid is struggling.

Power outages have increased a staggering 20% annually since 2019, with weather-induced blackouts now threatening millions of households across the country—especially along the coasts, the Great Lakes, and Gulf regions.

New research from Texas A&M University shows that these power outage hot spots face the highest levels of vulnerability, putting families at risk during extreme weather events that are becoming more frequent and severe.

You can't control the weather, but you can control how you prepare for future storms by protecting yourself with clean energy: Solar battery systems can be a lifeline during extreme weather.

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Texas and California lead the nation in blackouts

Between 2000 and 2023, Texas was the leading U.S. state for major power outages, with more than 200 blackouts. In 2023 alone, Texas accounted for 13% of all power outages across the country. California followed, with 238 major power outages, while Louisiana residents endure the longest average blackouts at 470 minutes, or about eight hours. When the power goes out for days at a time, families face spoiled food, medical equipment failures, and dangerous indoor temperatures.

"We knew that the state of power system vulnerability nationwide is exacerbating,” said Dr. Ali Mostafavi, the director of the Urban Resilience AI Lab, in the report. “But the magnitude of that was shocking, and greater than we hypothesized." 

The Texas A&M research team used machine learning to analyze over 179 million data points sorted by time and location, creating a Power System Vulnerability Index (PSVI) that maps America's most at-risk counties. Their findings confirm what many people already realize: The grid is getting worse, not better.

Solar and batteries beat generators during outages

When severe storms knock out power lines or heat waves overwhelm the grid, most homeowners typically reach for gas generators. But solar panels combined with battery storage systems offer advantages that generators can't match—they're silent, emission-free, and can power your home instantly without manual startup.

Modern battery systems store electricity from the grid or solar panels when rates are low, then automatically kick in during outages. Unlike generators that require constant refueling and maintenance, batteries provide seamless backup power that keeps your refrigerator running, medical devices operational, and lights on without the carbon monoxide risks of running a generator.

Adoption rates are rising as more people learn about the benefits of batteries: Thirty four percent of EnergySage shoppers purchased batteries alongside solar in the first half of 2024, and that rate increased to 45% by the end of the year. During extended outages, batteries paired with solar panels can recharge daily, providing long-term backup power as long as the sun shines. Generators eventually run out of fuel—and good luck finding gas stations with power during widespread blackouts.

The real cost of going without solar and backup power

The impacts of climate change impact some areas disproportionately: States like Alabama and Mississippi recently saw seasonal power outage spikes exceeding 50%. These aren't abstract statistics—they represent families losing hundreds of dollars in spoiled food, missing work, and risking heat stroke or hypothermia.

Power outages are expensive 

Power outages cost homeowners anywhere from as little as $25 for emergency supplies to $25,000 or more for major property damage (think flooded basements or burst pipes). Even a typical outage will run a family about $200 in spoiled groceries, not counting lost days working, hotel stays, or damaged electronics. For people with health conditions who have medical equipment that requires refrigeration or electricity, the consequences can be life-threatening.

So while it’s true that solar-plus-storage is a pricey upfront investment, the reasons why it’s worth it are apparent. A system typically costs between $20,000 and $30,000 after the federal solar tax credit, depending on system size. While that's a significant chunk of money, consider that a single extended outage can cost thousands of dollars or result in a medical emergency.

If you’re interested in adding battery storage to your existing solar panels, or getting solar-plus-storage for the first time, you’ll receive the full 30% tax credit if you act now and have them installed by the end of the year. You’ll end up paying thousands more if you wait to install your clean energy system until 2026 or later.

Climate change guarantees more blackouts ahead

This isn't a temporary problem that utility companies will fix next year—it's an accelerating crisis driven by extreme weather and aging infrastructure.

About 80% of major power outages in the U.S. from 2000 to 2023  were due to weather events, and the number of those outages in the last decade was double that of the previous one. Which means that as hurricanes intensify, heat waves stretch longer, and winter storms become more severe, the grid will continue failing more frequently.

Battery storage provides insurance against this new reality. While utilities struggle to modernize decades-old infrastructure, installing a battery system now will protect your family through whatever weather extremes the coming decades bring.

Taking action before the next outage hits

The coasts, the Great Lakes, and Gulf regions are the highest-risk areas, putting millions of American families who live in power outage hot spots at risk. The question isn't whether you'll face extended blackouts, but when.

Solar panels with battery storage have evolved from an expensive investment to an essential home resilience upgrade. As outages surge and extreme weather becomes our new normal, the choice is simple: Invest in solar and backup power now while prices are lower and tax credits remain available.

Randy Harrison stands outside his farmhouse in Lincoln, Massachusetts, reflecting on a four-year journey that has finally led to solar panels on his roof. Now that his installation is complete, he’s most excited for one simple, symbolic moment: flipping the switch.

“The thing I’m looking forward to most once the system is installed is flipping the switch,” Randy said. “After that, I know I’ll generate my own power moving forward.”

For Randy, going solar was about more than saving money—it meant embracing sustainability, stabilizing his household energy costs, and preparing for the future.

Project spotlight

A four-year solar journey

Randy’s path to solar began in 2021–and it wasn’t easy.

“I made every mistake in the book,” he admitted. “The process to get here was unbelievable.”

In Lincoln, where heavy winter storms often knock down trees and cut power, reliability was a motivating factor to make a change. Randy had even considered a backup generator at one point. But when federal tax credits were prematurely cut this year, the urgency to make the leap to solar became clear.

What Randy didn't expect was how difficult it would be to find trustworthy partners in the solar industry.

"This [solar] business is an emerging business," Randy observed, drawing on his background as a marketing consultant. "So much of this industry is focused not on being easy to buy, but on being easy to sell. It's about making their sales numbers and hitting revenue targets—and the customer becomes a necessary evil. I really felt like a lamb ready for the slaughter."

Finding EnergySage at the right moment

Randy’s journey nearly took a wrong turn.

“I was in the process of concluding my first go-round with an installer, ready to sign the final paperwork, when my wife suggested we have someone take a second look,” Randy recalled.

A quick Google search led him to EnergySage—just in time. Randy submitted his nearly-signed solar agreement for review to Aliza, an EnergySage Energy Advisor, who identified a major problem.

“I found EnergySage, submitted my paperwork, and connected with Aliza, my Energy Advisor,” he said. “She’s been my guardian angel through this whole process.”

EnergySage’s advisors are unbiased, clean energy experts dedicated to helping homeowners make confident, informed decisions. Aliza’s review uncovered $8,000 in hidden financing fees buried in the fine print of Randy’s contract.

“The average cost per watt in my area was around $3. But in my agreement, it was closer to $6,” Randy said. “Aliza discovered an $8,000 finance fee that wasn’t transparent. Without her, I never would have known.”

That discovery reset Randy’s solar journey—but this time, he had the trusted guidance he needed with EnergySage.

"That was the beginning of what set me off on this journey: To find the trust I needed to make a major, significant improvement to my home," Randy added.

But trust wasn't just about finding the right installer—he also needed transparency in an area that had caused him the most confusion: financing.

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Finding a trusted loan provider

For Randy, one of the most frustrating aspects of his solar journey was getting a straight answer to a simple question: "What will my monthly cost be when all is said and done?"

"That was the most important number for me to know," Randy explained. "With all the incentives, with the financing, with everything else—what will my monthly payment be, and how does it compare to my current energy costs?”

The answer should have been straightforward, but Randy discovered that many vendors made it unnecessarily complicated. Local installers would refer him to multiple financing options.

"To figure out the monthly number was a math exercise for an accountant, not for someone like me," Randy said. "That's where the national vendors had an advantage—they could instantly give you your monthly number. But as I learned with one vendor, that instant answer came with hidden costs."

The complexity wasn't accidental. Randy realized that some companies deliberately obscured financing details to facilitate sales, not to help customers make informed decisions. 

"So many vendors I spoke with couldn't clearly explain what I'd actually be paying each month. If you can't answer that basic question transparently, how can I trust you with a 20-year financial commitment?"

The breakthrough came when Randy's chosen installer, Second Generation Energy (SGE), offered financing through Atmos Financial—a relationship built on transparency rather than hidden fees.

"The installer had this relationship with a company they trusted, and that trust extended to me,” Randy said. “I knew exactly what the fees would be. There was a financing fee, but it was a lot less than others, and it was completely on the table–completely transparent."

Most importantly, there were no prepayment penalties after a certain period—crucial for Randy's plan to pay down the system in five years. 

"Four years ago, they couldn't offer this kind of transparent financing,” he added. “They can do it now. That was part of what made this the right time to move forward with Second Generation."

Planning for today—and tomorrow

When reviewing bids through the EnergySage Marketplace, Randy appreciated seeing different equipment philosophies from each vetted installer.

“I was looking for a few different things in my solar installer,” Randy explained. “One was product knowledge. You need someone who understands how the equipment integrates together and lasts over time. The other piece was trust. I wanted a local company I could depend on.”

He ultimately chose Second Generation Energy, a Massachusetts-based installer. Every EnergySage installer is pre-screened to ensure they’ll provide homeowners with a trustworthy experience. They are rated based on their results, reputation, and responsiveness.

"Dave from Second Generation was a straight shooter," Randy added. "Over time, he and I built that trust. So I had [trust] with EnergySage, and then having that same trust extend to the installer—that was exactly what I needed."

Randy was also thinking ahead when sizing his system; he needed the system to be future-proofed for other potential clean energy additions like electric vehicles and heat pumps. As a result, SGE educated him on critical technical details, like the importance of choosing a 48-volt battery system over a 40-volt system to accommodate EV charging without shutting down his entire solar panel array.

"I would never have known about the voltage difference," Randy said, smiling. "That's where the trust with the installer comes in—to understand my needs and ensure I have a system that can accommodate future growth."

• System size: 10.5 kW 

• Panels: SunPower X21-350-BLK-E-AC  

• Inverter: Enphase Energy IQ7X-96-2-US 

Advice to homeowners

Now, with solar panels on his roof and a solar battery in his basement, Randy is ready to lock in his energy costs and embrace a sustainable future. Reflecting on his journey, Randy describes the solar market as “the rootin’ tootin’ West.”

“There are so many sales pitches out there—it can be overwhelming. But with EnergySage, I finally found the trust I needed to make a major improvement to my home.”

Randy’s advice to other homeowners considering solar boils down to one word: trust.

"If you don't have trust, you need to find it,” he says. “Some people may find trust in working with a national vendor. For me, I needed individual attention for my specific needs."

Randy also emphasized the importance of having an unaffiliated advocate: 

"I would argue everybody needs an unaffiliated partner in this process. Having EnergySage in the mix is critically important—a resource that has the knowledge and insights, and is focused on you as a customer."

For Randy, the four-year journey was worth it to find the right partners and solution. His advice to friends considering solar is simple: 

"Run–don't walk–and contact EnergySage right away!"

Solar is a significant investment, so it’s natural to worry if you notice a drop in electricity production. The good news? Solar electricity generation fluctuates with the seasons, so most production dips are normal. But if you notice a persistent issue, you’ll want to ensure your equipment works properly. 

For most homeowners, their solar panels themselves require almost no attention over their decades-long lifespan. The rare issues that do occur typically arise during installation, and the only regular maintenance they may need is an occasional cleaning—often just a couple of times a year, if that.

“Solar panels don't really go bad. Sometimes you may pull it out of the box and it doesn't work, but that's about it. Very seldom have I seen a solar panel go bad once it’s installed,” Duane Wright, president of Fused Solar and Roofing, told EnergySage. “As long as it rains enough to remove bird droppings, dust, and pollen, that’s pretty much all the maintenance needed.”

Inverters, on the other hand, are another story: They’re commonly the real suspects for solar panel system issues.

Inverters are usually the culprit of solar energy issues

While solar panels themselves are remarkably durable, your solar inverters are more likely to require repairs or replacements. If you notice a sudden dip in production, it’s often due to an inverter issue likely caused by overheating, electrical surges, or improper installation. Fortunately, these problems are usually straightforward to fix.

What is a solar inverter?

Solar inverters are responsible for turning the energy generated by your solar panels into usable electricity for your home and appliances. Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, while your home uses alternating current (AC) electricity. Inverters are the middleman: They convert DC electricity to AC electricity, enabling you to harness solar power for your home. 

Microinverters vs. string inverters

There are two main types of solar inverters: String inverters and microinverters. A string inverter is a centralized inverter located at ground level that converts electricity from multiple panels, sometimes the entire system. It’s the more affordable option, and maintenance is typically easier and cheaper. However, string inverters are less efficient than microinverters and can make expanding your system tricky.

Microinverters convert electricity at the panel level and are usually more efficient than string inverters. Each panel has its own inverter mounted on its back, which enables panel-level monitoring and optimization, but that also makes them harder to maintain and repair.

“Most maintenance we do involves replacing or repairing microinverters. If you have 25 microinverters on a 25-panel system, there are 25 fault points, and they’re underneath the panels on the roof,” Wright explained. “With string inverters, there's only one fault point, and it’s at ground level.”

How to troubleshoot solar panel system issues

For starters, remember that not every dip in production signals a problem. Solar panels generally produce less energy during the cloudy winter months and more during the sunnier spring and summer—seasonal fluctuations are completely normal and to be expected.

Most solar panel systems include a monitoring system accessible via a smartphone app. These apps let you see real-time energy production and often send alerts if your system isn’t performing as expected.

If you receive an alert or notice that your system isn’t producing as much as it should for the season, it’s best to contact a professional certified by your manufacturer to troubleshoot the issue. Tampering with your solar equipment yourself can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

What if your solar installer goes out of business?

Your original installer should be your first point of contact for any maintenance or repair needs. However, some companies may not stay in business for your solar panel system's entire 25-year lifespan—especially given the expected impact of recent federal policy changes on residential solar installers. If your installer closes its business, you’ll need to find another company to repair your system. 

Orphaned solar panel systems

As the solar industry reacts to policy changes and economic headwinds, more companies are offering operations and maintenance (O&M) packages for “orphaned” systems, a term for solar setups left without an installer. When selecting a new solar company, the most important thing to confirm is whether or not that company is certified by your equipment manufacturer to work on your system. Any work done by an uncertified company can void your warranty, so start your search by contacting your manufacturer. They can often recommend local companies authorized to work on your system. If you do any work on your system yourself, you could also void your warranty, so make sure to read the fine print.

Understanding solar panel repair costs

How much any potential solar panel repair will cost depends on your manufacturer’s warranty: Most cover the parts necessary for repairs, but only some pay for the labor required to service your system. For example, Tesla’s standard warranty covers labor costs for its inverters; Enphase’s does not. Those labor costs are on you if you need to repair or replace your Enphase microinverters. 

Labor costs will vary depending on the service company and the type of work you need done. As Wright mentioned, repairing a microinverter on top of a roof is a much different job than troubleshooting a string inverter in a garage. But in general, expect to pay around a couple of hundred dollars for a service visit if your equipment warranty doesn’t cover labor.

Solar panels rarely fail

The reality is that solar panels are built to last, often for decades, with minimal intervention for repairs or maintenance. Seasonal changes or inverter issues cause most production dips—not the panels themselves. By monitoring your system, cleaning occasionally, and relying on certified professionals for repairs, you can keep your solar investment running smoothly for years to come.

If you see a drop in solar production, don’t panic. Check your monitoring system, understand the seasonal context, and contact your installer or manufacturer-certified technician. As long as you keep an eye on them, solar panels are a reliable, low-maintenance way to harness the sun’s energy.

If you’re planning a cross-country electric vehicle (EV) road trip and worried about “charging deserts” between cities, you’re probably overlooking a hidden network that’s been there all along.

Across the U.S., more than 13,000 RV parks and campgrounds dot the country—and many are the perfect spot to stop and charge your EV on a long road trip. Most RV parks are actually equipped with the same 240-volt outlets that EV users need to charge their cars. That means you’ve got more charging options than you might think.

Although these campgrounds weren’t designed with EVs in mind, their dynamic electrical setups make them surprisingly practical pit stops. Whether a major campground chain or a mom-and-pop site, RV parks can help ease range anxiety for EV drivers eager to venture off the beaten path.

That said, it’s smart to call the parks ahead and check their availability. Campground policies vary: Some campgrounds happily allow EV charging with or without an overnight stay, but a few simply don’t have the power capacity to support it—and others forbid it. A quick phone call can spare you from a long detour.

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Why RV parks are a hidden gem for EV charging

Aside from being located almost everywhere, RV parks come with unique perks for EV drivers. Unlike the late-night scramble to find a fast charger, you can often reserve your spot days, weeks, or even months in advance. Popular destinations fill up quickly, but once you secure a reservation, you can set out on your trip knowing you have a guaranteed place to plug in.

"What makes RV parks such a smart solution for EV drivers is that their infrastructure mirrors what we recommend for home charging—240-volt Level 2 outlets,” Carmen Robinson, senior vice president of residential solutions for Qmerit, told EnergySage. “Whether you’re in your garage or at a campground, the ability to charge overnight while you rest ensures you start the next day with confidence and range."

With a Level 2 charger, which is what most people use to charge their cars at home, you can count on adding about 20 miles of range for every hour you're plugged in—meaning an overnight stay can easily give you 150+ miles for the next day's adventure. That’s slower than DC fast chargers, but that doesn’t matter while you’re sleeping or relaxing by the campfire: You rest, your car charges, and you’re ready to roll with a full battery in the morning.

In fact, that slower charging pace also benefits your EV’s long-term battery health. Fast charging is great in a pinch, but steady overnight charging is easier on your EV’s battery system.

Finally, RV parks are typically budget-friendly. When you factor in overnight accommodations—whether you're camping, staying in a cabin, or simply sleeping in your vehicle—you’re often paying less than you would for a hotel room and a separate charge stop.

When RV park charging might not work for you

RV park charging isn’t always a perfect solution. The biggest drawback is time—if you’re looking for a quick 20-minute boost, this won’t cut it. You’ll need at least four to six hours to add meaningful range, which makes overnight stays the most practical option.

Another challenge is availability. Not all parks allow EV charging. Some worry about stressing older electrical systems, while others see it as an unfair use of resources truly meant for RVs. Plenty of RV campgrounds are suitable for charging, but it’s something to consider when booking campgrounds.

You need to bring your own charger

One of the most important things to remember? You’ll also need to bring your own equipment. RV parks provide outlets, but you’ll need to pack your own charger and adapter—for most EV drivers that’s usually a NEMA 14-50 adapter. 

The weather may not be on your side

Lastly, consider the weather factor. Unlike covered charging stations, RV park outlets are often exposed. The equipment is designed to handle rain, but plugging in during a downpour or snowstorm can make for a less-than-pleasant experience.

How to find EV-friendly RV sites

RV parks have been around for decades, but finding the right ones for EV charging no longer requires flipping through guidebooks. Apps like PlugShare let you filter for campgrounds with the types of outlets you need, while reviews from other EV drivers provide valuable details on which sites truly welcome EV charging and what to expect. Traditional RV apps like Allstays can also help you locate campgrounds with 50-amp hookups along your route.

When booking a charging station, you should ask three key questions:

1. Can I charge my EV here?

2. Do you have 50-amp sites available?

3. What’s the cost?

Remember that timing matters, too. RV parks near national parks and other popular destinations tend to sell out months in advance during peak season, so make your reservation early if you’re road-tripping in the summer. Traveling in the off-season usually means more availability and sometimes lower prices.

How much does EV charging at RV parks cost?

Your charging costs will vary. Some campgrounds bundle electricity into the nightly site fee, ranging from $20 to $100 per night, while others add a separate charge for EV use. Extra fees typically run $10 to $20 per night as a flat rate, though some parks charge per kilowatt-hour (kWh) instead.

What to know before hitting the road

Charging your EV at an RV park can take a little more planning ahead than plugging in at a dedicated charging station. Here’s what to be aware of:

Test your setup first

Before you leave, double-check your charger at home to confirm it works with the type of outlet you’ll use on the road. Get familiar with any settings that let you adjust charging speed—some campgrounds may ask you to dial it back during peak demand.

Have a backup plan

Even with a reservation, outlets can sometimes be faulty or unavailable. Always arrive with enough charge to reach the next charging option if necessary.

Know your outlets

Most RV power pedestals have three types: a large round 50-amp outlet (the one you want for your Level 2 EV charger), a smaller three-pronged 30-amp outlet, and standard household outlets. Stick with the 50-amp when possible—the 30-amp will charge your EV, but at a much slower pace.

Mind your manners

If the campground asks you to lower the charging speed to protect their system, do it. You’ll still wake up with plenty of range and also help ensure EVs remain welcome at RV parks. Some EV owners will even offer to pay a little extra for the electricity they use—an offer that can help foster good relationships.

The next frontier for long-distance EV travel

RV parks are an underexplored resource that make ambitious EV road trips possible. While they won’t replace the speed of DC fast chargers for quick stops, they stand out as overnight charging outposts in corners of the country where traditional infrastructure hasn’t reached.

As Robinson puts it, "For years, we’ve focused on the convenience of home charging, but RV parks reveal just how versatile that same model can be on the road. By tapping into existing infrastructure, EV drivers can extend their journeys into places where fast chargers haven’t yet reached, without sacrificing the reliability of a full overnight charge."

As more EV drivers venture off the beaten path, campgrounds are evolving. Some are installing dedicated EV charging stations, while others are upgrading their electrical systems to handle the growing demand. This shift benefits everyone: Parks gain a new revenue stream, and drivers gain thousands of additional charging stops across America.

Range anxiety doesn’t have to limit your adventures. With some planning and the right gear, your cross-country EV journey is more than feasible.

When golf ball-sized hail started hammering Texas last spring, solar panels across the state faced their ultimate test.

The verdict? Most panels emerged unscathed, proving that today's solar technology can take a serious beating. But with extreme weather events intensifying and hail damage accounting for over half of all insured solar losses, understanding how to protect your investment has become essential for every solar homeowner.

Modern solar panels are built to withstand more damage than you might expect. Still, as homeowners from Colorado to Texas have learned, nature sometimes throws curveballs that even the toughest equipment can't dodge.

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Your solar panels are tougher than you think

Solar panels aren't as fragile as some homeowners imagine. They're built to last, with tempered glass shields that can take a beating.

“Modern solar panels are engineered to withstand extreme weather,” Duane Wright of Fuse Solar and Roofing told Engergysage. “Most Tier 1 panels are tested to endure wind speeds up to 140 mph, and hail impact from 1-inch diameter hailstones traveling over 50 mph.”

Companies like UL Solutions, an applied safety science company, test solar panels by dropping a two-inch solid steel sphere from 51 inches onto panels, simulating the impact energy of serious hail. If panels survive this test without electrical hazards, then they earn their stripes for real-world deployment.

The proof is in the pudding—or in this case, the parking lot. When a severe hailstorm hammered the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL) Colorado campus in 2017, just one single panel out of more than 3,000 suffered damage. That's a 99.97% survival rate against Mother Nature's frozen fury.

How hail actually damages solar panels

Not all hail damage is created equal. While your panels' tempered glass provides solid protection, extreme storms can still leave their mark in several ways. Here's the most common damage you can expect from hail:

Visible damage is the most rare, but also the most obvious—cracks, chips, or shattered glass that you can spot from the ground.

Hidden microcracks are the sneaky culprits that worry experts more. These microscopic fractures in solar cells might not immediately impact performance, but can spread over time like a windshield crack, gradually reducing efficiency and creating hot spots.

Cell and busbar damage happens beneath the surface when hail's impact energy transmits through the glass. Modern panels with 16 or more ultra-thin busbars are more resilient than older models, distributing electrical current more evenly and surviving localized damage better.

But the real danger comes from what experts call "concentrated impacts"—multiple hailstones hitting the same spot, creating a spiderweb of damage that weakens the entire structure. Think of it like repeatedly hitting the same spot on a car windshield; eventually, something's got to give.

What makes panels hail-resistant

When shopping for solar panels in regions where it hails a lot, certain features make some panels better at withstanding hail than others:

Glass thickness matters most. While 97% of 2-mm panels failed a 45-mm ice ball test, only 13% of 3.2-mm panels failed the same test. That extra millimeter makes a massive difference—it's like upgrading from a bicycle helmet to a motorcycle helmet.

Certification levels tell you what intensity panels can handle. Panels with UL 61730 or IEC 61730 ratings have withstood 1 to 3 inch hail traveling up to 88 mph (for perspective, that's faster than most Major League fastballs).

Frame design and support provide structural integrity. Panels with reinforced frames and middle support bars distribute impact energy better, preventing the glass from flexing and cracking under pressure.

Advanced testing standards separate premium panels from the pack. While basic certification only requires surviving 25mm sized-hail, some manufacturers like AIKO and LONGi now test against 40-45mm hailstones—softball-sized ice chunks that would make most homeowners run for cover.

Smart strategies to protect your investment

You can't stop hail, but you can minimize its impact on your solar system by taking some precautions ahead of time. Here's what to consider:

Choose the right tilt angle. Tilting panels at 60° instead of flat can increase survival likelihood from 82% to 99%. While that steep angle isn't practical for most roofs, even moderate tilts help hail bounce off rather than strike head-on.

Consider tracking systems with hail stow modes if you're installing ground-mounted panels. These automatically tilt panels to near-vertical positions when storms approach, turning direct strikes into glancing blows.

Schedule post-storm inspections even if panels look fine. Invisible damage including micro-cracks can spread over time, decreasing production and increasing fire risk. Professional inspections using infrared or electroluminescence imaging can catch problems early.

Review your insurance coverage before storms hit. Most homeowner's policies cover solar panels under dwelling protection, but verify that hail is listed as a "covered peril" and understand your coverage limits. With some installers reporting that hail causes over 50% of total insured solar losses, proper coverage is essential.

Act quickly if damage occurs. Shut down your system immediately if you spot visible damage, preventing electrical hazards. Document everything with photos for insurance claims, and contact your installer for a professional assessment.

Weather concerns shouldn't stop you from going solar

Here's what homeowners should remember: Solar panels are built to last decades in harsh conditions, and most will shrug off typical hailstorms without missing a beat. Modern panels undergo rigorous testing that would destroy most other outdoor equipment.

But the weather overall is becoming more extreme. As climate patterns shift and "hundred-year storms" seem to arrive every few years, investing in quality panels with robust hail ratings makes sense—especially in Hail Alley states like Texas, Colorado, and Nebraska.

The math still works in solar's favor. Even accounting for potential hail damage, solar remains one of the best investments homeowners can make. With proper panel selection, smart installation choices, and adequate insurance coverage, your solar system will likely outlast your roof—come hail or high water.

Google just pulled back the curtain on one of tech's best-kept secrets: exactly how much energy its Gemini AI uses with every prompt. The answer—0.24 watt-hours (Wh) per median query—might seem small at first (about the same as running your microwave for one second). But multiply that by billions of daily interactions, and it suddenly becomes clear just how much energy AI is really using every day. 

This level of transparency in a new report from Google provides comprehensive data on per-prompt energy usage. It's a wake-up call about how Silicon Valley's AI race will impact the trajectory of clean energy demand—and translate into increased energy costs for everyday Americans.

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Inside Google's energy revelation

"We wanted to be quite comprehensive in all the things we included," Jeff Dean, Google's chief scientist, told MIT Technology Review in an interview. And comprehensive it is—Google's analysis reveals that the AI chips powering Gemini account for just 58% of the total electricity demand.

The remaining energy appetite breaks down into surprising categories: 25% goes to supporting hardware like CPUs and memory, 10% powers backup equipment sitting idle but ready, and 8% runs the cooling systems and power conversion necessary to keep everything operational. Every Gemini query triggers this entire infrastructure cascade.

One particularly interesting fact? Complex prompts consume far more energy, according to the report. If you feed Gemini dozens of books for a detailed synopsis, use its reasoning models, or ask it to generate images instead of text, its energy consumption spikes dramatically above the median. The company's data shows that Gemini's median prompt used 33 times more energy in May 2024 than it did in May 2025, though it says improvements in efficiency have brought consumption down.

Google's carbon math isn't a win for your utility bills

Google estimates each Gemini query produces 0.03 grams of carbon dioxide—a figure that sounds reassuringly small until you dig into the math. The company calculates this using its own market-based emissions, factoring in its 22 gigawatts of clean energy purchases since 2010. On paper, Google's emissions per unit of electricity are one-third of the average grid's.

While Google can claim carbon neutrality through renewable energy purchases, the actual electricity powering those data centers still draws from the same stressed grid that powers your home. The real-world impact becomes clearer when you zoom out from individual queries to Google's total footprint. The company's data centers, along with those from other tech giants, are driving unprecedented demand growth. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that electricity demand from data centers worldwide will more than double by 2030 to around 945 terawatt-hours—more than Japan's entire annual consumption.

The effect of AI on your monthly electric bill

Google's report arrives at a critical moment for American homeowners. Data centers currently consume about 4.4% of total U.S. electricity, but that's projected to reach 11-12% by 2030. In practical terms, that means power that could otherwise keep rates stable is instead being diverted to answer prompts about recipe substitutions and homework help.

The math for homeowners isn't pretty. Goldman Sachs estimates $720 billion in grid upgrades will be needed through 2030 to meet this demand—costs that utilities pass directly to consumers. Depending on where you live, residential electricity rates are projected to rise between 15% and 40% by 2030, with the average household facing about $143 more per year in electricity costs.

Google's report also reveals that data centers consume 0.26 milliliters of water (about five drops) per prompt. But those drops add up when multiplied by billions of queries, putting additional strain on resources in drought-prone regions where Google operates major data centers.

We need more AI data

While Google's disclosure represents a significant step toward transparency, the company still hasn’t revealed how many total Gemini queries it processes daily, making it impossible to calculate the AI's total energy footprint. The report also strictly limits itself to text prompts, leaving out the substantially higher energy costs of image and video generation.

More top of mind for homeowners may be what Google's efficiency improvements actually mean. When companies make AI more efficient, history shows they don't use less energy—they simply run more queries. It's the digital equivalent of widening highways to reduce traffic, only to find that more cars fill the new lanes.

How solar helps fight back against AI's grid strain

The irony isn't lost on energy experts: while Google's data centers strain the grid, distributed solar generation from homeowners could actually help stabilize it. Solar prices hit a record low of $2.50 per watt in the second half of 2024—a dramatic decrease from over $3.80 per watt in 2014, according to EnergySage. For homeowners, this means building your own energy independence is much more affordable, even as AI drives grid demand higher.

Rooftop solar provides what data centers take away: distributed generation that reduces strain on transmission lines and helps prevent the brownouts and rolling blackouts that become more likely as facilities like Google's multiply. An 11-kilowatt system—the average quoted on EnergySage—can offset approximately 14,000 kWh annually. If you do the math, that works out to roughly the equivalent of preventing 58,000 Gemini queries from impacting the grid each year.

The benefits compound during peak demand periods when both AI data centers and air conditioning usage spike. Solar panels produce the most electricity during these same afternoon hours, providing crucial relief when the grid needs it most. A recent study from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) found that 44% of households that went solar in 2023 earned less than $100,000 annually, with most earning between $50,000 and $100,000—proving that solar isn't just for the wealthy, but a practical defense against AI-driven rate increases.

Solar and clean energy can lower AI's impact

Google's transparency is refreshing, but it doesn't change the fundamental equation: AI's energy appetite is growing, and ultimately, homeowners will help foot the bill. The question isn't whether Gemini and its AI siblings will impact your electricity costs, but by how much.

Every question typed into Gemini contributes to a system where tech companies reap the benefits while homeowners absorb the infrastructure costs – but the equation shifts when homeowners become energy producers rather than just consumers. Investing in clean energy can change the outcome of AI’s energy appetite and keep energy affordable for everyone.

You’ve probably seen the Tesla Solar Roof—sleek tiles, futuristic vibe, and hefty price tag. Here’s what most people don’t realize: Tesla isn’t your only solar roof option.

Tesla may have put solar roofs on the map, but long wait times, high costs, and mixed customer service reviews have many homeowners looking elsewhere. Companies like CertainTeed, Luma Solar, and GAF Energy also sell solar roofs that look just as appealing, last for decades, and will slash your electric bills—often with faster installs, lower costs (though still more expensive than traditional solar panels), and fewer headaches.

With the federal solar tax credit set to disappear after 2025, choosing the right solar product and installer could be the difference between locking in an additional $9,000 in savings now or missing out entirely. For many homeowners, that might mean skipping Tesla and going with a competitor that can deliver results on time.

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What is a solar roof?

Solar roofs provide all the benefits of solar without the “look” of solar panels. Instead of mounting panels to your existing roof, you replace the roof with solar-integrated roofing materials. 

A solar roof is your roof—the shingles themselves produce electricity, so no bulky equipment is necessary. That’s a major difference between solar roofs and solar panels— you can remove your solar panels from your roof if you ever need to because they’re still separate equipment. 

Why people are looking past Tesla

Tesla’s Solar Roof is well-known, but far from the perfect option. Many homeowners have been turned off by Tesla’s long installation wait times and inconsistent customer service for years. And now, a growing number of prospective customers say they don’t want their home projects tied to Elon Musk’s increasingly polarizing public persona.

Given Tesla's notoriously long wait times, going solar with Musk’s company could also cost you money.

The Trump administration’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) eliminates the 30% federal solar tax credit for homeowners after December 31, 2025—meaning that all systems installed on January 1, 2026, and beyond won’t qualify for the credit, which is a very tight time crunchSome Tesla customers have reported install wait times of up to two years, so if you want to be certain you’ll get your system installed and approved before these federal policy changes take effect, a who has available inventory now might be your best bet.

Solar roof vs. traditional solar panels

Solar roofs and regular solar panels both power your home with clean energy. One of the main differences is simply the aesthetics. With a solar roof, the “panels” are built right into your roofing material, giving you a sleek, seamless appearance. This can boost curb appeal, especially if you dislike the look of traditional solar setups. However, that design integration comes with a tradeoff: Solar roofs are much more expensive, and installation requires a complete roof replacement.

On the other hand, standard rooftop solar panels are faster and cheaper to install, and they’re generally more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity. You can mount them on your existing roof and have your system up and running in less time than it would take to “turn on” a solar roof. 

If you already need a new roof and want to go solar, a solar roof can be a stylish two-in-one solution. But traditional panels are usually more cost-effective if your roof is in good shape and what you’re looking for is maximum savings.

Solar roofs that aren’t Tesla

CertainTeed SunStyle

CertainTeed’s SunStyle solar roof offers a sleek, frame-free design that looks attractive with a variety of kinds of architecture. It’s an ideal choice for homeowners who value design just as much as energy savings. 

The brand’s SunStyle tiles have the highest output per panel of any product on our list. However, they’re less efficient than Luma Solar’s product and fall short of GAF’s performance warranty. 

Luma Solar Luma Air

Luma Solar’s Luma Air offers a luxury alternative to solar panels. The shingles are upgradeable, allowing homeowners to swap them out as technology improves. At 22.1%, Luma Air is the most efficient solar product on our list. 

The company offers a short product warranty of just 5 years—20 years less than both Certainteed and GAF’s warranty terms—but Luma does offer 25 years of power production coverage.

GAF Timberline Solar Roof

GAF’s Timberline Solar Roof can be installed with a nail gun, making it faster and easier to build than many other solar roofs. The shingles are installed with the company’s Timberline roof and designed to blend in seamlessly. However, solar cell efficiency isn’t included in the product’s data sheet, so if that’s important to you, it’s probably smart to look elsewhere. 

GAF’s product warranty is solid, and its performance warranty just beats out that of Certainteed and Luma Solar: The Timberline Solar Roof should maintain 84.8% of its original output in year 25.

Best non-Tesla solar roofs

Should you install a solar roof?

Tesla may grab the headlines, but CertainTeed, Luma Solar, and GAF prove there’s more than one way to get a sleek and sustainable energy-producing roof. With multiple styles, quicker installs, and often lower prices, a non-Tesla solar roof could be the best choice for your home and your budget.

Traditional rooftop solar panels still make the most sense financially, and usually performance-wise in most cases. But if you’re looking for the most attractive option when it comes to curb appeal, solar roofs are really about the look and style, offering a unique option for homeowners who are willing to pay more for design to enjoy the benefits of clean energy.