Solar Panel Users Share Their Insights From Installing Roof Top Solar Systems

Rooftop Solar Gains Popularity Across the US

In the past 15 years, residential rooftop solar has transformed from a niche curiosity to a common sight in many neighborhoods across the United States. A recent survey compiled by an unnamed website reveals insights into the current state of rooftop solar installations over the last year.

According to the data, an average residential solar array with a power output of 7.15 kW could generate more electricity than the average US household's monthly usage, saving homeowners around $1,500 annually. This financial savings, along with the appeal of energy independence, are two of the top reasons driving the growing interest in rooftop solar.

Rooftop solar has been identified as critical for achieving energy independence and self-sufficiency. In fact, cities and states with high interest in spreading solar panels, especially for low- and middle-income households, include California, New York, and Massachusetts. These areas have introduced various incentive programs, rebates, and financing options to make solar energy more affordable and accessible.

Connecticut, which has the second highest electrical costs in the US (only behind Hawaii), has launched the Residential Solar Investment Program (RSIP) to broaden access to rooftop solar for low- and moderate-income residents. The US Energy Information Administration reports the average US electric bill as $132.17.

Each household has its own particular primary goal when investigating rooftop solar. Some households adopt multiple sustainable energy technologies as part of a larger equation, such as plug-in electric vehicles, battery energy storage systems, smart appliances, smart thermostats, and more. The ease of integration of this technology in the residential sector is a real advantage of rooftop solar.

The shift away from traditional utility dependence offers more than just lower monthly bills; it provides protection against rising energy costs, power outages, and grid instability, while increasing property value. Current solar technology, coupled with advanced battery storage systems, enables home and business owners to generate, store, and manage their own electricity year-round.

The development of complementary energy technologies such as vehicle-to-grid capability, smart homes, and battery energy storage systems has stimulated consumer awareness of the combined benefits of rooftop solar and other technologies. In the US states of Connecticut and Massachusetts, nearly 9% of all homes have solar, demonstrating the growing popularity of rooftop solar.

The US solar industry added 8.6 GW of new solar module manufacturing capacity in Q1 2025, marking the third-largest quarter for new manufacturing capacity on record. This growth indicates a bright future for the rooftop solar industry in the US.

Rooftop solar owners want to share their experiences to help others and affirm solar's viability. As more households embrace solar power, the nation's electricity grid will become cleaner, more stable, and more resilient. Solar power is the fastest way and least expensive way to add more electricity to the grid, making it an attractive solution for a sustainable future.