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Return on investment time for solar energy increasingly attractive in Brazil: find out how much it costs to install solar energy in 2025 and the main types of systems
Solar energy has become one of the best options for reducing electricity costs and contributing to more sustainable consumption in Brazil. According to data from the Meu Financiamento Solar platform, the average price of residential solar panels fell by approximately 60% between 2022 and 2025, making the return on investment time even more attractive for consumers.
Currently, self-generated solar energy supplies more than 4,6 million properties in Brazil, including homes, businesses, industries, rural properties and public buildings, according to the Brazilian Association of Photovoltaic Solar Energy (ABSOLAR). As a result, more and more consumers are looking to find out how much it costs to install solar energy and what the estimated time is to obtain a return on investment.
What is the payback time for solar energy investment?
The payback period for solar energy investments varies depending on the region of the country, the size of the system and the property's energy consumption. A survey of over 3 installation companies found that the annual financial return can vary between 35% and 45%, depending on local conditions and the size of the system.
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On average, considering the value of the electricity bill and the savings provided, the installation of a photovoltaic system can pay for itself in around 3 the 6 years.
For example, a house in the region Southeast, which consumes 347 kWh per month, would require a system of at least 3,3 kWp to meet all your energy needs. In a house in the region Northeast, where there is greater solar incidence, the same consumption could be met by a slightly smaller system, reducing the initial cost and the return on investment time.
How much will it cost to install solar energy in Brazil in 2025?
The cost of installing a solar energy system depends on the size of the structure needed to meet the property's demand. Below are some simulations of average values for different consumer profiles:
Residential:
- 5 kWp system: R$12.906,00 (generating an average saving of R $ 400 per month and an annual return of 37%);
- 10 kWp system: R$22.692,00 (economy of R $ 800 per month and rate of return of 42% per year).
Commercial:
- 25,5 kWp system: R$54.500,00 (economy of R $ 2.000 per month, with return of 44% per year);
- 51 kWp system: R$122.900,00 (economy of R $ 4.000 per month, but with reduced return for 39% per year).
Additionally, costs can be reduced through tax incentives, facilitated financing and specific credit lines for solar energy, such as those offered by public and private banks.
Types of Solar Power Systems
Brazil already has over 35 GW of installed capacity in solar systems, with accumulated investments exceeding R$164,1 billion. Solar energy is present in 5.563 municipalities, covering all states in the country. However, for those who want to invest in this sector, it is essential to understand the different types of solar energy generation available.
1. Distributed Generation (DG)
Distributed Generation refers to smaller photovoltaic systems, usually installed in residences, businesses and small industries. Most of these systems have a capacity between 4 kWp and 8 kWp, being connected to the electricity grid to compensate for consumption through the energy credit system, regulated by Aneel (National Electric Energy Agency).
2. Centralized Generation (CG)
Centralized Generation corresponds to large-scale solar plants that produce electricity on a large scale. The energy generated can be sold through energy auctions or purchased through the Free Energy Market, where companies negotiate directly with suppliers to obtain more competitive rates.
According to Carolina Reis, executive director of My Solar Financing, the significant reduction in the cost of equipment has made solar energy more accessible and advantageous than ever. In addition, factors such as rising electricity bills, government incentives and environmental concerns have driven the adoption of this technology in Brazil.
Whether for residential or commercial use, investing in solar energy in 2025 continues to be an excellent alternative for those looking to economy, sustainability and energy independence.
