# How is the payback period calculated?

The payback period is the time it takes for the benefits of the system to outweigh the costs.

Easy PV calculates how much is **saved on the electricity bill** and **earned from exporting** across the payback period, using the selected **tariffs** and factoring in any **financial projection settings**. It then similarly calculates any costs incurred across the payback period including the **upfront cost**, **finance payments** and any **maintenance costs**.

Take a look at our guide on [using the financial task](https://help.easy-pv.co.uk/books/financial-task/page/using-the-financial-task "Financial Task") and [understanding the financial projection](https://help.easy-pv.co.uk/books/financial-task/page/understanding-the-financial-projection) for additional information.