solar calculator — enter your ZIP code and electricity bill, and it returns your recommended system size in kW, the number of panels, the roof area you need, the gross install cost, the annual savings, the payback period, the 25-year lifetime profit, and. The all-in-one U. But savings vary widely by location, product and many other variables. We've analyzed. There are now more than 1. And don't worry, they can still generate electricity on gloomy days, vital when the weather's as dull as dishwater. But they cost an average of. Solar panels are an upfront investment that can save homeowners a significant amount of money in energy costs over the life span of the panels. An 8 kW system costs about $24,800 installed, saves $1,500–$4,500 per year depending on your electricity rate, and pays for itself in 6–13 years. 5kWp solar panel system in the UK is around £7,000, rising to £9,000 for a 5kWp system.