The real cost of going solar in 2026 (NEM 3.0 update)
Cash, loan, and PPA side-by-side. What it actually costs in 2026 and what NEM 3.0 changed.
Cash, loan, and PPA side-by-side. What it actually costs in 2026 and what NEM 3.0 changed.
How pricing is usually quoted
Residential solar is generally priced per watt of installed capacity. Where a given project lands inside the market range depends on roof complexity, equipment selection, electrical work and whether storage is included. Treat any per-watt figure you see online as a starting point for the conversation, not a quote — the only number that means anything is the written one for your address.
Cash vs loan vs PPA
Paying cash means the highest long-run return but ties up capital upfront. A loan removes the upfront capital at the cost of interest over the term, so the return is lower but the entry is easier. A PPA means you do not own the system and buy the power instead — the lowest return of the three, but no ownership obligations. Rates, terms and availability vary by lender and by year, so compare current offers rather than any figure quoted in an article.
What NEM 3.0 changed
Exports pay 5–8¢/kWh instead of 30–50¢/kWh. The math shifted from "oversize for export" to "right-size for self-consumption + add battery." Pairing the array with a home battery is now the norm on residential installs.