The cost of solar panels has dropped roughly 89 percent since 2010, which is why rooftop solar now pays for itself faster than most people expect.
Start by checking your roof’s direction and shade. A south-facing roof with six hours of sun is ideal, and even east or west can work with a larger array.
Get three quotes and compare the cost per watt, not just the headline price. Most installers price between two and four dollars per watt after incentives.
Ask each installer to model your payback period, since local utility rates and incentives change the math more than the panel brand ever will.