Pennsylvania vs Delaware Solar Incentives: Which State Gets the Better Deal?
Side-by-side comparison of Pennsylvania and Delaware solar incentive programs in 2026: state tax credits, net metering rules, exemptions, payback period, and projected 25-year savings.
| Metric | PA · Pennsylvania | DE · Delaware |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Monthly Bill | $145 | $165 |
| Peak Sun Hours / Day | 4.3 | 4.5 ◆ |
| Avg $/Watt Installed | $2.9 | $2.9 |
| State Tax Credit | None | None |
| Net Metering | retail | retail |
| SREC Market | ~$7400 | ~$7200 |
| Property Tax Exempt | No | Yes |
| Sales Tax Exempt | No | No |
| Avg Payback (yrs) | 8 | 7.4 ◆ |
| Avg 25-Year Savings | $36,400 ◆ | $35,100 |
State Tax Credit Comparison
Pennsylvania offers no state income tax credit. Delaware offers no state income tax credit.
Net Metering Policies
Pennsylvania: retail rate net metering active. Delaware: retail rate net metering active.
Net metering is often the most economically significant solar policy because it determines how excess production is valued. Retail-rate states (where you receive full retail price for exported energy) have substantially better solar economics than avoided-cost or no-net-metering states.
Average 25-Year Savings
Pennsylvania: $36,400 over 25 years (avg payback 8 yrs). Delaware: $35,100 over 25 years (avg payback 7.4 yrs).
Verdict: Which State Wins on Solar?
Pennsylvania edges out Delaware on lifetime savings primarily due to more favorable net metering rules.
Note: state averages mask significant within-state variation. Your specific utility, roof orientation, and household electricity profile drive your actual numbers — use the calculator to model your home directly.