Solar Electricity Calculator
Make a quick, honest estimate of what a solar setup could produce on your farm.
Location
System Config
Electricity Rate
Monthly Production
Solar vs. Grid - 25 Year Comparison
Savings Projection
How It Works
Solar panels turn sunlight into direct current, and an inverter converts that to usable AC power for your farm. Production changes with seasons, weather, tilt, and how the panels are aimed. A bigger array does not always mean better - good siting and shading control matter just as much. Your savings depend on how much power you use on-site and your real electricity rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is annual production calculated?
The calculator uses NREL solar irradiance data for your location combined with the system size and orientation you enter. It applies standard derating factors for inverter losses, soiling, and temperature to produce a realistic annual kWh estimate.
What payback period should I expect on a farm?
Payback varies widely. With current incentives and typical utility rates, well-sited farm solar pays back in 7 to 12 years on average. Sites with high electric bills, expensive utility rates, or strong state incentives can be shorter; remote or shaded sites longer.
Does it account for federal tax credits?
Yes, the calculator can include the federal Investment Tax Credit and other incentives you choose to enter. Always confirm current credit rates with a tax professional - federal and state programs change.
Can I model battery storage?
The current version focuses on grid-tied solar without storage. Battery payback depends heavily on time-of-use rates and outage exposure, which need to be modeled separately.
Is this advice or an estimate?
It is an estimate based on public data. Get a real site assessment and at least two contractor quotes before committing money. Roof condition, shading, and electrical service can all change the math.