Do solar photovoltaic energy benefits outweigh the costs?

This article appears in the Spring 2020 issue of Energy Futures, the magazine of the MIT Energy Initiative. Benefits of solar photovoltaic energy generation outweigh the costs, according to new research from the MIT Energy Initiative.

Are solar panels worth it?

Solar panels can generate major savings if you’re trying to reduce your electricity costs, carbon emissions or both. The primary factor in determining whether or not solar panels are worthwhile for you is the cost you’re currently paying for electricity. The higher your electricity costs, the more a solar panel system will save you in the long run.

Can solar panels save money on energy costs?

Yes, homeowners across the US can save money on energy costs by powering their homes with solar panels instead of purchasing electricity from a utility. This is especially true following the rapid rise in grid electricity rates in 2022 and 2023.

How much does a solar panel cost?

Less efficient polycrystalline panels are typically cheaper at $0.75 per watt, putting the price of a 400-watt panel at $300. The cost of a solar panel also depends on how you buy it. If you purchase through a full-service installer, you will likely get a lower price for each panel than buying them individually from a retail store.

Is home solar a good investment?

The falling cost of solar panels coupled with the recent spike in grid electricity prices have made home solar a reliable means of reducing your essential energy costs. While the five-figure price tag for home solar often gives people sticker shock, it’s important to remember that going solar is like buying 25 years’ worth of electricity in bulk.

Are PV systems worth the cost?

Based on their findings, the researchers conclude that the decline in PV costs over the studied period outpaced the decline in value, such that in 2017 the market, health, and climate benefits outweighed the cost of PV systems at the majority of locations modeled.