Skip to content
Menu

Guides & articles

Is installing solar panels still worthwhile without a subsidy in 2026?

Is it worth installing solar panels without a government subsidy? See a detailed breakdown of costs, payback, ROI, and real examples for Greece in 2026.

From Solar Home ·

Is installing solar panels still worthwhile without a subsidy in 2026?
Many people are waiting for “the next subsidy program.” But the question is simple:

If there’s no subsidy, is it still worthwhile?

The answer for 2026 is: Yes—in most cases, it’s worthwhile even without government support. Let’s look at the numbers.

How much does a residential solar system cost today?

For a detached house in Attica:
5 kW system (without a battery)
  • Cost: ~6.500€–8.000€
  • Annual production: 7.000–8.000 kWh
10 kW system (without a battery)
  • Cost: ~11.000€–14.000€
  • Annual production: 14.000–16.000 kWh
(Prices depend on the equipment, roof, electrical panels, and HEDNO work.)

How much will you save each year?

At an average final electricity price of 0,17€–0,22€ / kWh:

5 kW example:
7.500 kWh × 0,19€ = ~1.425€ in annual savings

10 kW example:
15.000 kWh × 0,19€ = ~2.850€ in annual savings

Payback without a subsidy

5 kW | 7.500€ | 1.400€ | ~5–6 years
10 kW | 12.500€ | 2.700€ | ~4–6 years
With a lifespan of 25+ years, that means 15–20 years of net profit after payback.

What changes with Net Billing?

Under the current model:
  • You use your own generation first
  • Any surplus is credited
  • Your bill is significantly reduced

Without a battery, the system is efficient when:
  •  There is daytime consumption
  •  There is a heat pump or air conditioning
  •  There is an EV

A battery increases energy independence, but also the upfront cost.

When is it NOT worthwhile without a subsidy?

  • Very low annual consumption (<3.000 kWh)
  • Significant shading
  • A congested grid
  • A holiday home with minimal use

What if electricity prices fall?

Even if the price falls to 0,15€/kWh:
  • Payback shifts from 5 years → 6–7 years.
  • It remains a strong investment, with an internal rate of return (IRR) that exceeds most banking options.

Compared with other investments

  • Fixed-term deposit | 2–3%
  • Property rental | 3–5%
  • Solar system | 12–20% internal rate of return

Would you like to see your own figures?

At Solar Home we can provide:
  • Consumption analysis
  • Production simulation for your property
  • Payback calculation
  • Estimate for a future battery

No generic estimates. Real data.

Related guides