NorthSolarCalc is a free, independent solar savings calculator built for US and Canadian homeowners who want a quick, honest estimate — not a sales pitch. We are not a solar installer, and we don't sell panels or represent any specific installer.

Who runs this site

NorthSolarCalc is published under the NorthSolarCalc organization, not an individual named author. We don't claim to be licensed solar engineers, electricians, or tax professionals — the content is built and reviewed against the official sources listed in our methodology, not personal credentials.

What the calculator does

You enter a monthly electricity bill and pick a state or province. The calculator estimates a recommended system size, gross installation cost, any currently verified incentive, net cost, payback period, and 25-year savings. Every assumption behind those numbers — including exactly why we don't automatically apply expired incentives — is documented on our methodology page.

Our Data Sources

Electricity rates: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
Peak sun hours: NREL PVWatts methodology
Installation cost ranges: publicly reported industry cost-per-watt data
Incentive status: IRS.gov and Natural Resources Canada, checked directly (see methodology)
Unconfirmed state/provincial/utility incentives: DSIRE database (US) and provincial energy offices (Canada) — we point you there rather than guess a number

How we update our data

Region data and incentive status are reviewed periodically against the official sources above; the "reviewed" date shown on the calculator and region pages reflects an actual check, not an automatic build timestamp. Because incentive programs can open, close, or change quickly, we deliberately default every region to $0 verified incentive rather than risk showing a stale number — see our methodology for the full reasoning.

Correcting errors

If you find an outdated rate, an incorrect incentive claim, or any other error, please tell us — see Contact. Our editorial policy explains how we handle correction reports.

How we make money

This site is supported by display advertising (Google AdSense) and a referral relationship with EnergySage and, where applicable, other partners registered through Impact.com. See our affiliate disclosure for details. Advertising and referral relationships do not change the numbers our calculator produces.

Relationship to installers and government

NorthSolarCalc is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated on behalf of any government agency, utility, or solar installer. References to programs like the US federal solar tax credit or Canada's Greener Homes initiative are informational and based on public government sources; they are not an official statement from the IRS, Natural Resources Canada, or any other agency.

Limitations

This calculator produces estimates, not quotes. It cannot see your roof's condition, shading, local permitting rules, your specific utility rate plan, or your tax situation. It is not financial, tax, or investment advice. Always get multiple quotes from licensed local installers and consult a tax professional before making a purchasing decision.

About NorthSolarCalc