Solar Panel Savings in Reston, VA
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Reston, Virginia. Based on 4.1 peak sun hours/day and 10.1¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4.1
Peak Sun Hours/Day
10.1¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
17.3 yr
Payback Period
$25k
25-Year Savings
Reston Solar Overview
Calculate Your Reston Solar Savings
Reston average: $91/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$24,833
Monthly Savings
$61
Federal Tax Credit
$5,256
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Reston | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $17,520 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,256 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $12,264 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.92/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Reston
Sun Hours vs National Average
Reston gets 9% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.
Climate Advantages
- 198 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 60°F — moderate climate with good solar conditions
- Average roof size: 1,619 sq ft — enough for a 89-panel system
Reston Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $17,520 system, that's a $5,256 credit. Valid through 2032.
Virginia State Incentives
Net metering; sales tax exemption.
Net Metering — Dominion Energy
Dominion Energy offers net metering in Reston. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Reston
3.0
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
49
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.7
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 7,183 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Reston, Virginia
Reston, Virginia receives an average of 4.1 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 10.1¢ per kWh from Dominion Energy, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in Reston produces approximately 7,183 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $727 annually. The system pays for itself in about 16.9 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 8+ years of the system's warranty life.
Reston has a solar penetration rate of 1% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 102 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Virginia
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Chesapeake, VA
Hampton, VA
Lynchburg, VA
Newport News, VA
Norfolk, VA
Richmond, VA
Roanoke, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Reston, VA?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Reston is approximately $17,520 before incentives ($2.92/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $12,264. Net metering; sales tax exemption.
How many peak sun hours does Reston get?
Reston, VA receives an average of 4.1 peak sun hours per day and approximately 198 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in Reston?
The average solar payback period in Reston is approximately 17.3 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $24,833.
Does Reston have net metering?
Yes, Reston has access to net metering through Dominion Energy. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Reston, VA?
Solar can still be worthwhile in Reston, especially with rising electricity rates. The 17.3-year payback means long-term savings of $24,833 over the system lifetime. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.