Solar Panel Cost in Memphis, TN

Estimated costs and savings for ZIP code 37501 — 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

$18,900

7kW system

Annual Savings

$1,303

$109/month

Payback Period

14.5 yrs

Break-even

Peak Sun Hours

5

hrs/day avg

Solar System Cost Breakdown — Memphis, TN

Estimated costs and savings for different residential solar system sizes in ZIP 37501. Costs based on TN average of $2.70/W and utility rate of $0.12/kWh.

SystemCostSavings/yrPayback
4 kW$10,800$74514.5 yrs
5 kW$13,500$93114.5 yrs
6 kW$16,200$1,11714.5 yrs
7 kW(typical)$18,900$1,30314.5 yrs
8 kW$21,600$1,48914.5 yrs
10 kW$27,000$1,86214.5 yrs

Solar Production in Memphis, Tennessee

Average Peak Sun Hours

5 hours/day

Above average — strong solar potential

Est. Annual Production (7kW)

10,859 kWh

Based on 5 PSH × 7kW × 365 days × 85% efficiency

Average Utility Rate

$0.12/kWh

Moderate rates — solar still provides solid returns

Cost Per Watt in TN

$2.70/W

Below national average — competitive market

Solar Panel FAQ — Memphis, TN

How much do solar panels cost in Memphis, TN?
A typical 7kW solar system in Memphis, TN (ZIP 37501) costs approximately $18,900 before any incentives. This works out to about $2.70 per watt installed. Smaller systems start around $10,800, while larger 10kW systems can cost up to $27,000.
How long is the solar payback period in Memphis?
The average solar payback period in Memphis, TN is approximately 14.5 years for a 7kW system. With estimated annual savings of $1,303, 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 37501?
Homeowners in Memphis, TN (ZIP 37501) can save approximately $109 per month or $1,303 per year with a standard 7kW solar system. Over 25 years, total savings can exceed $32,575, depending on utility rate increases.
How many peak sun hours does Memphis get?
Memphis, TN receives an average of 5 peak sun hours per day. This is above the national average, making solar highly effective in this area.
What size solar system do I need for my home in Memphis?
The average home in Memphis, TN 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 10,859 kWh annually in ZIP 37501.

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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.