Solar Payback Estimator
Estimate rooftop solar output, savings and payback period in GCC sunlight.
Planning estimate using a typical GCC specific yield. Actual output depends on roof orientation, shading, soiling and tariff bands. A puniq audit gives a figure tied to your meters.
About this tool
The Gulf has some of the best solar resource on the planet, yet most rooftops sit empty. This estimator gives building owners a fast, defensible read on rooftop solar payback: how much energy a system would generate, what it would save against your tariff, and how many years it takes to pay back.
Size the system in one of two ways. Enter the system size in kWp directly, or switch the toggle and enter your usable roof area in square metres, where we assume roughly 0.15 kWp of panels fit per usable m². Then set your capex per kWp, electricity tariff, and a GCC specific yield (default 1,700 kWh/kWp per year).
How to read the result
The headline number is simple payback in years: total capex divided by annual saving. Below it you see annual generation, annual saving, and the 25-year net benefit (lifetime saving minus capex). Shorter payback and a larger net mean a stronger case. Solar pairs naturally with a unified building management system, which schedules loads to soak up self-generated power instead of buying it back at peak tariff.
This is a planning model, not a yield report. Roof orientation, shading, soiling, inverter losses and tariff bands all move the real figure. A puniq audit ties the estimate to your meters and roof survey.
Frequently asked
Should I size by kWp or by roof area?
Use kWp if you already have a system proposal. If you only know the roof, switch to area mode: we assume about 0.15 kWp fits per usable m², after walkways, plant and setbacks.
Is the default 1,700 kWh/kWp realistic for the Gulf?
Yes, it is a typical net specific yield across much of the GCC. Saudi and inland UAE sites can run a bit higher, coastal and dusty sites a bit lower after soiling losses.
Why is my payback longer than I expected?
Payback is mostly driven by your tariff and capex. A low subsidised tariff or a high installed cost both stretch payback. Raising self-consumption with smart load scheduling shortens it.
Does this account for panel degradation or financing?
No. It is a simple, undiscounted model so the result stays easy to sanity-check. A full puniq study adds degradation, inverter replacement, financing and tariff escalation.
How does solar fit with a building management system?
A unified BMS shifts flexible loads, such as pre-cooling and pumping, into solar hours, so you self-consume more and import less at peak tariff. That is where solar and controls compound.
More calculators
BMS ROI Calculator
Compare BMS capex against annual energy and maintenance savings to find your payback period.
Energy Audit Cost Estimator
Estimate what an ASHRAE Level 1 to 3 building energy audit should cost for your portfolio.
Predictive Maintenance Savings Estimator
Estimate savings from moving HVAC and equipment from reactive to predictive maintenance.