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Home solar,explained for youryour utility and state.

Independent solar research for homeowners in Illinois, Wisconsin, Colorado, and Oregon. Utility-specific math, rebate timing, and plain-English quote checks.

Start the diagnostic → Browse state guides

States: 4
Cities: 154
Method: Primary-source math

States: 4live
Cities: 154
Method: Primary-source math

Your results preview

Example: Madison, WI · MGE utility

2026 ratesUpdated sources

4 researched states

Why the math is different

✓ Utility-specific rates and exports

✓ Rebates with real application timing

✓ Quote assumptions checked against sources

Your electric bill estimate

$162/mo

1,000 kWh/month

12 mo

JFMAMJJASOND

6.4 kW DC

Modeled system size

Est. first-year savings

$1,134

Payback

7.1 years

Source-backed output$18,250 upfront cost$11,590 after incentivesView full breakdown →

No personal information required. Results update as data changes.

Researched states

Pick your state

Solar economics are set by utility, incentive timing, and state rules. Start with your market, then compare any quote against the current source record.

Learn how we research →Run the diagnostic →

Latest updates

What changed

Policy, utility, and quote-risk notes from the source record.

01illinoisHow Smart Solar Billing Changed the Math for ComEd Customers in IllinoisMay 15, 2026 → 02wisconsinWisconsin Solar with We Energies: Why Avoided-Cost Net Metering Is Not the Same as RetailMay 15, 2026 → 03buyer-guideHow to Read a Solar Quote in 2026: The Cash $/W, Dealer Fees, and Line Items That Actually MatterMay 15, 2026 →

All posts →

Research library

Verify the part that matters.

Three source-backed paths before a homeowner compares a quote.

Quote reviewCheck the offerCash price, dealer fees, and assumptions worth challenging.Start here →System basicsUnderstand the hardwarePanels, inverters, meters, warranties, and what wears out.Read basics →MethodologyAudit the source recordVerification cadence, funding disclosure, and publishing rules.See method →

Summit publishes nothing without a primary-source citation. Pages carry a last-verified date, source list, and a disclosure of the referral-fee funding model. Read the methodology →