How We Rate Renewable Energy Technologies

► Ratings are based on averages and estimates for 200 watt PV modules and wind turbines that produce an average of 2,000 kWh per year at 11 mph; price does not include tower and installation costs for the wind turbine or inverter and installation costs for the photovoltaic modules.

Lifecycle Cost

Our Lifecycle Cost Rating for Renewable Energy Technologies is based on return on investment potential of the technology, in years. Return on investment potential is based on average purchase price of the technology/product (not including inverter, rack or installation for photovoltaic modules; and not including tower or installation for wind turbines) divided by $212 (average cost of electricity multiplied by 2,000 kilowatt hours).

The higher the Lifecycle Cost Rating, the more cost-effective the technology and the sooner the upfront investment will be paid off in energy savings.

Price

Our Price Rating for Renewable Energy Technologies is based on average purchase price of the technology (not including inverter, rack or installation for photovoltaic modules; and not including tower or installation for wind turbines). Contact your local renewable energy installer or vendor for a price quote.

The higher the Price Rating, the better (lower) the average purchase price of the technology.