How much do solar panels cost in 2026?

A typical 6–8 kW residential solar system runs $15,000–$25,000 installed before incentives, or roughly $2.50–$3.50 per watt. After the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit and any state/utility rebates, net out-of-pocket often lands between $10,500 and $17,500.

How long does it take for solar panels to pay for themselves?

Payback periods typically run 7–12 years depending on your electricity rates, sun exposure, system size, and available incentives. Homeowners in high-rate states (CA, MA, NY, HI) often see faster paybacks, while lower-rate regions stretch closer to 12 years.

Is the federal solar tax credit still available?

Yes. The Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) is currently 30% of total installed cost through 2032, then steps down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034. It applies to panels, inverters, batteries, and installation labor for systems placed in service at your primary or secondary residence.

Should I buy or lease solar panels?

Buying (cash or solar loan) maximizes long-term savings and lets you claim the federal tax credit, but requires upfront capital or financing. Leasing or PPAs require little to no money down but the leasing company keeps the tax credit and you save less over the system's lifetime. Most financial analyses favor ownership if you plan to stay 7+ years.

Does TrustyFix install solar panels?

No. TrustyFix is a matching service that connects you with vetted local solar installers. We don't sell, finance, or install panels. You receive multiple competing quotes, compare them on equipment and price, and contract directly with the installer of your choice.

Solar Installation Services

Learn More About Solar

Installation Costs

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Solar Panel Leasing

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Solar Rebates

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Best Solar Companies

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Types of Solar Panels

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Solar Home Heating

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Explore Solar Solutions

Discover everything you need to know about solar energy - from installation costs and financing options to different types of panels and heating solutions. Our comprehensive guides help you make informed decisions about your solar investment.

Notable Solar Panel & Equipment Brands

Tier-1 manufacturers powering residential installations in 2026

TrustyFix doesn't sell panels — knowing the brands helps you compare quotes from local installers and pick the equipment that fits your budget and roof.

Maxeon (formerly SunPower)

Up to 22.8%

Premium IBC back-contact cells
Up to 40-year warranty on select models
Best-in-class degradation rate

REC Group

Up to 22.6%

Alpha Pure-R heterojunction (HJT) cells
Up to 25-year product & performance warranty
Lead-free construction

Q CELLS

Up to 21.4%

Q.PEAK DUO half-cell technology
Top US residential market share
Up to 25-year warranty on select models

Panasonic EverVolt

Up to 22.2%

Heterojunction (HJT) cell tech
Integrated home battery option
Up to 25-year all-in-one warranty (select programs)

Canadian Solar

Up to 22.5%

HiKu N-type TOPCon series
Strong value-to-performance ratio
Up to 25-year linear performance warranty

JinkoSolar

Up to 22.5%

Tiger Neo n-type TOPCon panels
Global volume shipment leader
Up to 25-year warranty on select models

How It Works

How TrustyFix Matches You

TrustyFix is a matching service — we don't perform the work ourselves. We connect you with vetted local pros who do.

1

Tell Us Your Project

Share your service type, ZIP, and timeline in about 2 minutes. Free, no account required.
2

We Match You With Pros

We route your request to up to 3 vetted pros in our network who serve your area.
3

Pros Reach Out Directly

Matched pros call or text you with quotes — typically within hours.
4

Compare, Hire, or Walk Away

Compare quotes, check reviews, and hire whoever you trust — or no one at all.

Get a free quote or estimate your Solar cost

Skip the search — we already know what service you need. Get matched with vetted local pros, or see what homeowners typically pay in 2026.

Get Matched With Local Solar Pros

Free · ~2 minutes · No obligation to hire

4.9/5

Service Timeline Details

Request received — matching you now

We're routing your request to our 24/7 emergency network — expect a call within 60 minutes. We're matching you with up to 3 vetted pros — expect them to reach out within 1 business day. We're matching you with up to 3 vetted pros so you can compare quotes — expect outreach within 1–2 business days.

What happens next:

1Pros in your area review your request and confirm they can help.
2You'll get calls or texts directly from them — typically 1–3 quotes.
3Compare quotes, ask questions, and hire the pro you trust most. No pressure to pick anyone.

Your details only go to the matched pros — we never sell your info.

Here's what happens next:

• Up to 3 vetted local pros in your ZIP get your request
• They reach out directly by phone or text — speed depends on the timeline you pick next
• They call within 60 minutes — directly, by phone or text
• They reach out within 1 business day — directly, by phone or text
• They reach out within 1–2 business days — directly, by phone or text
• You compare quotes and choose who to hire (or no one — zero obligation)
• Your details only go to matched pros · We never sell your info

What service do you need?

When do you need this service?

Almost done! Enter your details:

Full Name

Phone Number

Email Address

ZIP Code

Tell us about the job (optional, but helps pros quote faster)

Your details only go to the matched pros — we never sell your info.

256-bit Secure

No Obligation

10,000+ Served

Estimate Your Solar Cost

2026 national average ranges - Instant results

Free

Power Your Home with Solar Energy

Learn More About Solar

Installation Costs

Solar Panel Leasing

Solar Rebates

Best Solar Companies

Types of Solar Panels

Solar Home Heating

Explore Solar Solutions

Benefits of Solar Energy

Lower Energy Bills

Increased Home Value

Environmental Impact

Tax Incentives

Calculate Your Solar Savings

Energy Usage

System Size

Installation Cost

Savings Estimate

Notable Solar Panel & Equipment Brands

Maxeon (formerly SunPower)

REC Group

Q CELLS

Panasonic EverVolt

Canadian Solar

JinkoSolar

How TrustyFix Matches You

Tell Us Your Project

We Match You With Pros

Pros Reach Out Directly

Compare, Hire, or Walk Away

Get a free quote or estimate your Solar cost

Get Matched With Local Solar Pros

Request received — matching you now

Estimate Your Solar Cost

Ready to Switch to Solar?

Ready to Go Solar?