United States
Chicago rooftop solar case study
US homeowners combine PVWatts modeling with time-of-use tariffs, tax credits, and strong sun to keep payback compelling coast to coast.
Payback / System Size
System Size
9.2 kW
Annual Yield
11,800 kWh per year
Payback
7.5 years
Avg install cost
€18,500
Annual savings
€2,100 per year
Lifetime value
€38,000
Why this city shines
A Chicago two-flat runs 9.2 kW; PVWatts projects 11.8 MWh, trimming ComEd bills despite snowy winters.
Rooftop solar in Chicago works with a 9.2 kW array that delivers about 11,800 kWh yearly. Install costs near €18,500 translate to roughly €2,100 annual savings and a 7.5-year payback under typical tariffs.
Offsets roughly 5.0 tonnes of CO2 annually.