🗺️ Global Solar Payback Heatmap
Where does going solar pay for itself fastest? This map computes the payback period for 40,000+ locations worldwide. Crucially, it accounts for unserved grid demand and backup generators — in places with frequent blackouts or no grid, solar displaces expensive petrol/diesel fuel ($0.40–$0.65/kWh), not paper grid tariffs.
Key Takeaways
⚡ Fastest Payback
🔴 Slowest Payback
How this works & The Generator Paradox
Why do fragile grids look slow on paper, but solar is actually exploding there? In countries like Nigeria (43% unelectrified, remaining 57% on rolling blackouts), Lebanon, Haiti, and Pakistan, official utility rates look low ($0.05–$0.09/kWh) because power is heavily rationed or subsidized. When the power cuts out, families and businesses burn petrol and diesel generators at $0.40–$0.65/kWh.
- Real-World Basis (Default): Blends official rates with generator fuel costs weighted by unserved population and average grid outage duration. Nigeria's true payback drops from 8+ years to under 1.5 years.
- Grid Only Basis: Assumes a 24/7 unlimited stable grid at brochure utility prices.
- Solar yield: Annual kWh per kW of panels simulated from NASA satellite weather stations.
- System cost: Panels + LFP battery + inverter at landed-DIY pricing including regional freight.
Want exact numbers for your specific location? Run the full calculator →