Solar panels: payback period & worked example
Solar panels generate electricity for years, but what do you really earn back — and how quickly? In this article we calculate it transparently and explain which factors determine the payback period.
The payback period is the time in which the saving on your energy bill has repaid the investment in the panels. That time depends on your consumption, the yield from the roof and the electricity price. The worked example below is indicative — your situation determines the exact figures.
How the payback period works
A simplified example. Request a tailored calculation from us for your own roof and consumption.
| Number of panels | 10 panels |
| Estimated annual yield | ± 3,700 kWh |
| Value current (indicative) | depending on tariff |
| Annual saving | a substantial part of your electricity bill |
| Indicative payback period | roughly 6 to 9 years |
This is a simplified example for illustration. The actual yield and payback period depend on your roof, consumption, the electricity tariff and the applicable regulations. We're happy to make a tailored calculation.
The factors that count
No two roofs are the same. These points determine what you get back.
Orientation & pitch angle
A south-facing roof with a pitch angle around 35 degrees gives the highest yield. East-west also delivers excellent results, spread throughout the day.
Shade & roof area
Shade from trees, chimneys or neighbouring buildings reduces the yield. A shade-free roof with sufficient space performs best.
Your own consumption
The more electricity you use directly yourself (own consumption), the more favourable the calculation. Shifting consumption to daytime helps.
Not just installing, but safely connecting
Solar panels are more than panels on the roof. The inverter and connection to your fuse box must be correct — sometimes an extra circuit or a box modification is needed. We take care of the entire process: from installation to a safe, tested connection.
- Assessment of both roof and fuse box in advance.
- Neat installation and a correctly connected inverter.
- If necessary, an extra circuit in the fuse box.
Combine smartly
Many customers combine this in one go:
- Future-proof your fuse box straight away.
- Preparation for an EV charging point or heat pump.
- One tradesman, one appointment, one point of contact.
What your payback period really depends on
The rules are changing. As a result, what mainly counts is how much solar power you use yourself.
Every calculation example is a snapshot. How quickly solar panels pay for themselves for you depends on more than just the number of panels. Below you can read which factors make the difference, and why they will become more important in the coming period.
The net metering scheme ends in 2027
At present you may still offset the electricity you feed back into the grid against the electricity you draw at other times. Under current legislation, this netting-off scheme ends in 2027. After that, you will receive a feed-in tariff from your energy supplier for electricity fed back. This is usually lower than what you pay for electricity yourself. Some suppliers also charge fees for feeding back. The terms differ per supplier and per contract.
That's why own consumption counts more and more
Electricity that you use directly yourself at the moment the sun is shining, you don't need to buy in. That yields the most. The more of your own solar electricity you consume yourself, the less dependent you are on the feed-in tariff.
- Run the washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher during the day, for example using the delayed-start function.
- Charge an electric car during the day as much as possible.
- A heat pump or electric water heater can heat water during the day for later use.
- A home battery can store electricity for the evening. Whether that pays off for you varies greatly per situation; have it properly calculated and always installed safely.
Other factors that count
- Your consumption: a household that is home a lot uses more electricity during the day than a household that is away all day.
- The orientation of the roof: direction, pitch and shade determine how much electricity the panels generate and at what time of day.
- Your energy contract: a fixed, variable or dynamic tariff influences what electricity costs you and what feeding back yields.
- The inverter: make sure it works properly and monitor the yield in the app. If it switches off frequently, the grid voltage may be too high; have that checked.
A tailored calculation
For a fair assessment, we look at your actual consumption, for example from your annual statement or smart meter, at your roof and at your plans for the coming years, such as a heat pump or electric car. That way you know where you stand. Read more about having solar panels installed.
Related services
Need help? View the related service or call us directly.
Good to know
Short answers to questions we're often asked.
Good panels typically generate electricity for 25 years or longer, with a gradual decline in efficiency. The inverter usually has a shorter lifespan and is replaced in the meantime.
Sometimes yes. Depending on your current fuse box (consumer unit) and the number of panels, an extra circuit or modification may be necessary for a safe connection. We assess this in advance.
The figures in this article are for illustration. Your actual yield depends on roof, consumption and tariff. Request a tailored calculation, then you'll know where you stand.
Need help in The Hague or the Randstad?
Feel free to call us for advice or an appointment. In emergencies we're available 24/7.