Cost & Savings Breakdown
Based on $150/month electric bill in Columbia
System Size
8.6 kW
Annual Production
11,587 kWh
Gross System Cost
$26,743
Federal Tax Credit (30%)
-$8,023
State Incentive
-$1,000
Net Cost
$17,720
Monthly Savings
$122
CO₂ Offset/yr
10,660 lbs
25-Year Savings Projection
Utility & Net Metering
Local UtilityBGE
Net Metering PolicyFull Retail
Compensation RateFull retail rate
Capacity LimitNo overall limit
Electricity Rate$0.126/kWh
Peak Sun Hours4.6 hrs/day
Available Incentives
30%
Federal ITC — Deduct 30% of your system cost from federal taxes. Available through 2032.
$1,000
Maryland State Incentive — Maryland offers a $1,000 state grant for residential solar.
Common Questions
How much does solar cost in Columbia?
Solar in Columbia, Maryland costs approximately $26,743 for a 8.6 kW system. After the 30% federal tax credit, your net cost is about $17,720.
What is the solar payback period in Columbia?
The estimated payback period for solar in Columbia is 12.1 years, based on a $150/month electric bill and local sun hours of 4.6 hrs/day.
Does BGE offer net metering?
BGE offers Full Retail net metering. Full retail rate.