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Solar Panel Cost in Portsmouth, NH

Estimated costs and savings for ZIP code 03801 — updated for 2026

Urgent tax credit deadlines

  • Section 30D EV credit (up to $7,500) — expires June 30, 2026 (12 days left).
  • Section 48E solar ITC safe harbor — construction must start by July 4, 2026 (16 days left).
See the full deadline tracker

Gross Cost

$23,800

7kW system

Annual Savings

$1,642

$137/month

Payback Period

14.5 yrs

Break-even

Peak Sun Hours

4.2

hrs/day avg

Solar System Cost Breakdown — Portsmouth, NH

Estimated costs and savings for different residential solar system sizes in ZIP 03801. Costs based on NH average of $3.40/W and utility rate of $0.18/kWh.

System Cost Savings/yr Payback
4 kW $13,600 $938 14.5 yrs
5 kW $17,000 $1,173 14.5 yrs
6 kW $20,400 $1,407 14.5 yrs
7 kW (typical) $23,800 $1,642 14.5 yrs
8 kW $27,200 $1,876 14.5 yrs
10 kW $34,000 $2,346 14.5 yrs

Solar Production in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Average Peak Sun Hours

4.2 hours/day

Moderate solar resource — still cost-effective

Est. Annual Production (7kW)

9,121 kWh

Based on 4.2 PSH × 7kW × 365 days × 85% efficiency

Average Utility Rate

$0.18/kWh

High utility rates make solar especially valuable

Cost Per Watt in NH

$3.40/W

Near national average for installed cost

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Solar Panel FAQ — Portsmouth, NH

How much do solar panels cost in Portsmouth, NH?
A typical 7kW solar system in Portsmouth, NH (ZIP 03801) costs approximately $23,800 before any incentives. This works out to about $3.40 per watt installed. Smaller systems start around $13,600, while larger 10kW systems can cost up to $34,000.
How long is the solar payback period in Portsmouth?
The average solar payback period in Portsmouth, NH is approximately 14.5 years for a 7kW system. With estimated annual savings of $1,642, the system pays for itself and then generates free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of its lifespan.
How much can I save with solar panels in 03801?
Homeowners in Portsmouth, NH (ZIP 03801) can save approximately $137 per month or $1,642 per year with a standard 7kW solar system. Over 25 years, total savings can exceed $41,050, depending on utility rate increases.
How many peak sun hours does Portsmouth get?
Portsmouth, NH receives an average of 4.2 peak sun hours per day. This is near the national average, making solar a solid investment in this area.
What size solar system do I need for my home in Portsmouth?
The average home in Portsmouth, NH needs a 7kW solar system to offset their electricity usage. The exact size depends on your monthly electric bill, roof orientation, and available space. A 7kW system would produce approximately 9,121 kWh annually in ZIP 03801.

Solar Tools for New Hampshire

ROI Calculator

Exact payback analysis

System Sizer

Find your ideal kW

Incentive Finder

NH rebates & credits

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