Frequently Asked Questions

Energy Scout is a free solar and battery assessment tool. Enter your zip code and get a personalized report showing how much you could save with solar panels and battery storage — including system size, costs, payback period, and available incentives.

Yes, 100% free. Energy Scout is supported by installer partnerships. We only connect you with an installer if you choose to — there's no obligation and no cost.

Solar production estimates come from NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) satellite data for your specific location. Incentive data comes from federal and state program databases. Electricity rates use local utility averages.

Our estimates use real NREL data, current utility rates, and actual incentive programs. While every property is unique, estimates are typically within 10-15% of final installer quotes.

Enter your zip code and monthly electricity bill to get a full assessment: recommended system size, number of panels, annual savings, payback period, and a side-by-side ROI comparison of solar vs investing in the S&P 500.

Yes. After entering your zip code, use the sliders to adjust your monthly bill, electricity rate, and energy coverage percentage. The calculator updates in real time to show how changes affect your savings and system size.

The ROI chart compares the financial return of investing in solar (cash, financed, or leased) versus putting the same money in the S&P 500. It factors in energy cost inflation and shows the crossover point where solar wins.

Yes. Scroll to the bottom of your results and click "Download Report" to get a comprehensive PDF with all your assessment details.

Enter your email in the "Send Me My Report" section. You'll receive a styled email with your system specs, savings breakdown, and incentives summary.

The federal 30% homeowner credit (25D) ended for systems placed in service after December 31, 2025. Many states, utilities, and CCAs still offer rebates — enter your zip code on the Incentives page to see what's open in your area.

No, not for systems you own. Per the IRS, the 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit (25D) is not available for solar or batteries placed in service after December 31, 2025. Leased and PPA systems are owned by a business that follows separate tax rules, so ask the provider how that affects your price. Energy Scout estimates show the full installed cost, minus only verified local programs.

Visit the Incentives page and enter your zip code. We'll show you federal, state, and utility-level programs available in your area, including SGIP, virtual power plant payments, and state rebates.

Yes. You can toggle between solar-only, battery-only, or combined solar + battery systems. The calculator recommends a battery based on your usage, outage risk, and local utility programs.

A battery stores solar energy for evening use (when electricity costs more), provides backup during outages, and can qualify for utility payments through virtual power plant programs.