Payback Calculator
See how many years until any project pays for itself, with a year-by-year breakdown.
This models one scenario's simple payback. Comparing cash vs. loan vs. lease/PPA financing? See the Payback Period Comparison.
This tool provides a planning estimate based on the assumptions shown below the results — it is not a quote, and actual costs and savings will vary by installer, local rates, and your specific home.
Enter your project cost and savings to see the payback period.
How this calculator works
Payback period = the year cumulative savings first equal or exceed the project cost, interpolated to a fractional year. This is a simple, non-discounted model with flat annual savings — it doesn't account for a rising utility rate or equipment degradation over time. To compare cash vs. loan vs. lease/PPA financing specifically, see our Payback Period Comparison.
Source: Standard simple payback period methodology, last updated 2026-07-01.