A home solar plant is an investment that pays back through your electricity bills. But the payback period is different for everyone. Here is what it depends on.
How much energy a plant produces
In Ukraine, each kilowatt of solar panels produces roughly 1,100–1,300 kWh a year. The south and east produce more, the north and west a little less. A 10 kW plant will produce about 11,000–13,000 kWh a year.
Output also depends on roof orientation (south is best), tilt and shade from trees or neighbouring buildings. Even partial shade on a few panels noticeably lowers the result, so we always assess the roof before designing.
What determines payback
- Your consumption. The more of the plant's energy you use yourself, the faster it pays back.
- The tariff. The more expensive grid power is, the more you save on every kilowatt-hour.
- Configuration. A grid-tied plant without a battery pays back fastest. Storage lengthens payback but gives you what a grid-tied plant cannot: power during outages.
- Equipment quality. Grade A panels lose little capacity over the years, so the plant keeps working at full strength longer.
How to estimate it yourself
Take your electricity bills for the past year and see how many kilowatt-hours you use. Then, roughly: the plant's annual output multiplied by your tariff is your annual saving. Divide the cost of the plant by that figure to get an approximate payback in years.
An exact calculation depends on the roof, your usage profile and the chosen equipment. We do it free of charge at the consultation stage.
The bottom line
A plant lasts 25 years or more and pays back much sooner. Every year after payback, the energy for your home is effectively free, and a house with a plant is worth more on the market.