Editorial policy

Solar is a major financial decision, so we hold our content to a high standard for accuracy and transparency. Here’s exactly how we work.

Primary sources only

Every quantitative claim traces to an authoritative primary source:

• Electricity rates — U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
• Sun-hour / irradiance data — National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
• Incentives & net metering — DSIRE, state energy offices, and utility tariffs.
• Federal tax rules — the IRS, with industry context from SEIA.
• Install costs — SEIA/Wood Mackenzie market data and reputable marketplace benchmarks.

Who writes and checks the content

SunReckon is run by one editor, Matias Mardones, who is responsible for every page. Before an article is published or updated, each rate, price, credit, and program status is checked against the primary source listed at the bottom of the article — and, for money figures, against a second independent source where one exists. When the two disagree, the article says so instead of picking the more flattering number.

Use of AI tools

AI writing and research tools are used to help draft text and to cross-check documents. They are never the source of a number: figures come from the agencies, tariffs, and statutes we cite, and a person reviews the final page. We don’t publish fabricated testimonials, invented customer stories, or claims that we tested equipment we haven’t.

What our numbers are — and aren’t

Calculator outputs and worked examples are models built from public data, not measurements from systems we installed or monitored. Installed-price figures ($/W) are statewide averages from market reports; your quotes can be higher or lower. Treat every number as a starting point for a conversation with an installer, a utility, or a tax professional.

Transparent math

Our calculator’s formula and every assumption are published openly on the calculator page. We label all outputs as estimates and never hide the model behind a lead form.

We don’t chase the credit that’s gone

When the federal residential tax credit expired at the end of 2025, we updated the model to a 0% federal credit for 2026 purchases rather than keep inflating savings. Accuracy beats optimism.

Updates and corrections

Rates and incentives change, so we date every article and refresh figures as the market and law move. Found an error? Tell us — we verify and correct promptly, and note the update date.

Independence

Advertising or installer partnerships (clearly labeled when present) never influence our estimates, rankings, or recommendations.