How Our Calculators Work
Each calculator uses real data to give you estimates—not marketing fluff. We pull electricity rates from your utility, sun hours from NREL satellite data, and typical installation costs from contractor databases. The result: numbers that reflect your actual situation, not some "average American home" that doesn't exist.
That said, calculators are starting points, not contracts. Actual quotes from installers will vary based on your specific home, roof condition, existing electrical work, and local labor costs. Use these to screen whether a project makes sense before spending time getting formal quotes.
Which Calculator Should You Start With?
If you're not sure what to electrify first, start with our Electrification Order Quiz above. It's the most comprehensive tool and gives you a personalized roadmap covering all technologies in the right sequence.
If you already know you want solar, heat pumps, or an EV charger—jump straight to that calculator. Each one is self-contained and gives you everything you need to evaluate that specific upgrade.
The Panel Upgrade Calculator is worth checking even if you're not planning electrical work. Many homes with 100-amp panels can't handle adding a heat pump, EV charger, AND electric range without an upgrade. Better to know upfront than get surprised mid-project.
Understanding Your Results
Every calculator shows you key metrics that matter: payback period (how long until savings cover the upfront cost), annual savings (what you'll save each year), and total cost (including installation and equipment after incentives).
We always factor in the federal tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act. For 2024-2025, that's 30% for solar and batteries, and up to $2,000 for heat pumps. State and utility rebates vary widely—the calculators include common ones, but check with your local utility for the latest programs.
Results are estimates based on typical usage patterns. Your actual savings depend on how you use energy, whether rates change, and equipment performance in your specific climate. That's why we recommend getting 3 quotes from installers once you've decided to move forward.
Why Accuracy Matters
The internet is full of inflated savings claims. "Save $30,000 with solar!" sounds great until you realize it's over 25 years, assumes 5% annual rate increases, and ignores maintenance costs. Our calculators show realistic numbers—which sometimes means a project doesn't make financial sense for your situation. We'd rather you know that upfront than be disappointed after installation.