How does the Aurora Solar Alternative calculate financial return and payback?

The solver models gross capital expenditure (CapEx), Section 48 Investment Tax Credits (ITC 30%–50%), 5-year MACRS accelerated depreciation, utility demand charge shaving, and levelized cost of energy (LCOE).

Does this calculator account for battery degradation over time?

Yes, it models standardized degradation curves (typically 1.5% to 2.2% annually for LiFePO4 cells) and accounts for battery pack augmentation cycles across a 20-to-25 year lifecycle.

What federal tax credits apply under the Inflation Reduction Act?

Under Section 48 and Section 45Y, qualifying clean energy and battery storage installations unlock a 30% base ITC, plus potential 10% domestic content and 10% energy community bonus adders.

100% Free Aurora Solar Alternative

Solar PV Sizing & Production Engine

Estimate solar panel wattage, roof square footage required, annual solar generation (kWh), 30% Federal ITC tax credit, and payback periods without paying $250+/month for Aurora Solar or Solo.

System Parameters

Average Monthly Electric Bill ($)

Utility Electricity Rate

$ / kWh

Avg Peak Sun Hours/Day

Solar Panel Wattage

Gross Turnkey $/Watt

$ / W

System Efficiency Derate Factor (%)

70% (Shaded / Flat) 82% (Standard Inverter Loss) 90% (Microinverter Unshaded)

Solar Array Sizing & Economics

System Size 7.2 kW DC Array Rating

Panel Count 18 400W Panels

Annual Output 11,200 kWh / Year

Roof Area 360 Sq Ft Required

30% ITC Credit $6,156 Federal Savings

Payback Horizon 4.6 Yrs Breakeven Point

Net System Cost (Post-ITC): $14,364

25-Year Estimated Power Savings: $78,000+

Need Backup Battery Storage (LiFePO4)?

Pair your solar array with BLUETTI home backup or Tesla Powerwall for storm resilience.

Size Battery

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