Solar Panel Cost in Virginia Beach, VA

Estimated costs and savings for ZIP code 23454 — updated for 2026

Urgent tax credit deadlines

  • Section 48E phase-out completes December 31, 2027 — projects must be placed in service by then (515 days left).
See the full deadline tracker

Gross Cost

$21,700

7kW system

Annual Savings

$1,355

$113/month

Payback Period

16 yrs

Break-even

Peak Sun Hours

4.8

hrs/day avg

Solar System Cost Breakdown — Virginia Beach, VA

Estimated costs and savings for different residential solar system sizes in ZIP 23454. Costs based on VA average of $3.10/W and utility rate of $0.13/kWh.

SystemCostSavings/yrPayback
4 kW$12,400$77416 yrs
5 kW$15,500$96816 yrs
6 kW$18,600$1,16216 yrs
7 kW(typical)$21,700$1,35516 yrs
8 kW$24,800$1,54916 yrs
10 kW$31,000$1,93616 yrs

Solar Production in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Average Peak Sun Hours

4.8 hours/day

Good solar resource — solid investment

Est. Annual Production (7kW)

10,424 kWh

Based on 4.8 PSH × 7kW × 365 days × 85% efficiency

Average Utility Rate

$0.13/kWh

Moderate rates — solar still provides solid returns

Cost Per Watt in VA

$3.10/W

Near national average for installed cost

Solar Panel FAQ — Virginia Beach, VA

How much do solar panels cost in Virginia Beach, VA?
A typical 7kW solar system in Virginia Beach, VA (ZIP 23454) costs approximately $21,700 before any incentives. This works out to about $3.10 per watt installed. Smaller systems start around $12,400, while larger 10kW systems can cost up to $31,000.
How long is the solar payback period in Virginia Beach?
The average solar payback period in Virginia Beach, VA is approximately 16 years for a 7kW system. With estimated annual savings of $1,355, 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 23454?
Homeowners in Virginia Beach, VA (ZIP 23454) can save approximately $113 per month or $1,355 per year with a standard 7kW solar system. Over 25 years, total savings can exceed $33,875, depending on utility rate increases.
How many peak sun hours does Virginia Beach get?
Virginia Beach, VA receives an average of 4.8 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 Virginia Beach?
The average home in Virginia Beach, VA 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 10,424 kWh annually in ZIP 23454.

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Written & reviewed by

Jeremy Wolfe — Senior Solar Energy Analyst

Jeremy Wolfe is a solar energy analyst specializing in residential photovoltaic economics, federal and state incentive policy, and return-on-investment modeling for homeowners. He leads EnergyTools' solar research program and methodology.

  • 10+ years analyzing residential solar economics and payback modeling
  • Lead researcher for EnergyTools' 50-state solar cost-per-watt database
  • Author of 100+ solar ROI, payback, and incentive analyses

Methodology & data sources:NREL PVWatts, EPA FuelEconomy.gov, state utility commissions— updated 2026.