How much do solar panels cost in Ohio?
How much do solar panels cost in Ohio?
$2.50 to $3.00 per watt average cost of solar panels in Ohio
$15,000 – $33,000 total cost before tax credits (6 – 11 kilowatts)
$10,500 – $23,100 total cost after tax credits (6 – 11 kilowatts)
Average cost of solar panels in Ohio
The average cost of solar panels in Ohio is $2.50 to $3.00 per watt or $15,000 to $33,000 installed, depending on the system size, panel brand and type, and the installation complexity. After a 30% federal tax credit, the average total cost to install solar panels in Ohio is $10,500 to $23,100.
| System size | Average total cost | Average cost (after 30% tax credit)* |
|---|---|---|
| 3 kW | $7,500 – $9,000 | $5,250 – $6,300 |
| 4 kW | $10,000 – $12,000 | $7,000 – $8,400 |
| 5 kW | $12,500 – $15,000 | $8,750 – $10,500 |
| 6 kW | $15,000 – $18,000 | $10,500 – $12,600 |
| 7 kW | $17,500 – $21,000 | $12,250 – $14,700 |
| 8 kW | $20,000 – $24,000 | $14,000 – $16,800 |
| 9 kW | $22,500 – $27,000 | $15,750 – $18,900 |
| 10 kW | $25,000 – $30,000 | $17,500 – $21,000 |
| 11 kW | $27,500 – $33,000 | $19,250 – $23,100 |
| 12 kW | $30,000 – $36,000 | $21,000 – $25,200 |
*Local government and utility company rebates and incentives may also help to lower the cost.
The average electricity rate for Ohio homeowners is $0.15 per kWh, with an average electric bill of $185 per month.
The typical home electricity usage in Ohio is 873 kWh per month.
Average cost of solar panels in Ohio per square foot
The average cost of solar panels in Ohio ranges from $13.75 to $18.00 per square foot of home space before incentives, or $9.60 to $12.60 per square foot after factoring in the 30% federal tax credit. While this cost-per-square-foot metric can be useful for rough estimates, solar professionals typically calculate costs per watt.
Review your utility bills to see how much electricity you use each month and then consult a licensed solar pro to help you determine the best system size for your home. The average Ohioan needs a 6 kW to 11 kW system.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Ohio?
Many factors affect the cost of solar panel installation in Ohio, including:
System capacity: The size of your solar system impacts overall costs. Larger systems for bigger homes or higher energy needs increase total costs but may reduce the per-watt pricing. For community solar projects that power local subscribers, a solar farm costs $0.90 to $1.30 per watt.
Panel quality: Solar panels come in premium, mid-range, and budget tiers. Invest in the best quality your budget allows from a reputable manufacturer to ensure long-term performance and warranty support.
Roof condition: Consider roof replacement before solar installation if your roof is aging. This ensures your roof can support the panels for their entire lifespan and prevents future removal and reinstallation costs.
Roof type: Your roof's design affects your panel options and the complexity of the installation. More difficult installations require additional time and labor, increasing overall costs.
Local regulations: Permitting, inspection, and interconnection fees vary by location. Grid connection fees typically range from $100 to $200.
Ongoing care: Solar panel cleaning costs $150 to $500 on average, though some solar installation contracts include routine cleaning and annual inspections.
Removal: If you're upgrading an existing system, removing solar panels costs $200 to $500 per panel, or $4,000 to $10,000 on average for a 20-panel system.
Solar system components
Solar panels require several components to operate effectively, with equipment accounting for up to 50% of your total cost. Besides the panels, the system needs mounting structures and an inverter to transform the energy from the panels for electrical use. Backup power storage is optional but offers substantial long-term savings.
Panel types: Different types of solar panels vary in efficiency and cost. The most popular is the highly efficient microcrystalline panel, which is also the most expensive panel type. Polycrystalline panels are cheaper but don't perform as well. Thin film solar panels are the least expensive but also the least efficient.
Solar inverters: A crucial component of any solar system, solar inverters cost $1,500 to $3,000 installed, depending on the type. Options include string inverters, microinverters, and power optimizers.
Solar battery storage: Adding a solar battery storage system costs $5,600 to $11,200 installed after tax credits. This is not a requirement but allows you to store excess energy for use during nighttime or cloudy days, as well as during power outages. Similarly, a Tesla Powerwall costs $11,500 for the first unit or $8,500 after tax credits for backup power with most solar panel systems.
Incentives & tax credits
Taking advantage of available incentives can significantly reduce your solar panel costs:
| Incentive type | Description |
|---|---|
| Residential Clean Energy Credit (formerly Solar Investment Tax Credit or ITC) |
|
| Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) |
|
| ECO-Link Program |
|
| Net metering / solar buyback programs |
|
| Local government & utility company incentives |
|
Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) for Ohio-specific solar incentives and savings opportunities.
Payment options
There are a few ways to pay for a solar panel system in Ohio:
Cash: Paying in cash offers the highest long-term savings but requires a significant upfront investment.
Solar Power Purchase Agreement (SPPA): With an SPPA, a third party owns and maintains the system while you purchase the generated electricity at a predetermined rate. This option has no upfront cost but usually lower savings.
Solar Lease: Leasing is similar to an SPPA, but you pay a fixed monthly amount rather than per kilowatt-hour generated. The solar provider also handles the system maintenance.
Solar loan: A solar loan allows you to finance your solar panel installation while retaining ownership of the system. This option typically offers lower interest rates compared to personal loans and can be structured with flexible repayment terms.
Avoid signing a solar lease if you plan to sell your home, as it could complicate the sale and may deter some potential buyers.
FAQs about solar panels in Ohio
Are solar panels worth it in Ohio?
Despite Ohio's variable climate, solar panels can still be worth it. Most Ohioans see an 8- to 12-year ROI through reduced utility bills, federal tax credits, and SRECs while enjoying 25+ years of energy production. With electricity rates continuing to rise, solar panels can provide significant long-term savings for most Ohio homeowners.
Can an HOA deny solar panels in Ohio?
Ohio law limits HOAs' ability to prohibit solar panels, but your HOA may have some restrictions on placement or appearance. They may require approval of your installation plans and set guidelines for aesthetics, but an HOA cannot outright ban solar panels or make their installation impossible through excessive restrictions.
If you belong to an HOA, always confirm the rules and regulations before beginning a project like solar panel installation.
Can you get free solar panels in Ohio?
There are no truly "free" solar panels in Ohio, but there are several ways to go solar with little to no upfront cost. Solar leases and power purchase agreements (SPPAs, or PPAs) allow homeowners to install solar panels with zero down payment, though you'll pay monthly for the equipment or power generated.
For solar system ownership, combining federal tax credits, state incentives, and solar loans can significantly reduce initial costs.
How long do solar panels last in Ohio?
Solar panels typically last 25 to 30 years in Ohio's climate, with most manufacturers providing performance warranties for 25 years. While panels don't simply stop working after this period, their efficiency gradually decreases by about 0.5% to 1% annually.
Getting estimates from solar contractors in Ohio
Follow these guidelines to help you select the best Ohio-based solar contractor near you:
Compare 3 to 5 estimates with similar details from solar companies that have been in business for 5+ years.
Look for Ohio-licensed solar contractors who are active members of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) or certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
Check both large and small solar companies when comparing services, pricing, and warranties. Small companies often have better deals but be sure to confirm they've been in business for several years already and have a good track record of quality work.
Confirm the solar company is licensed, bonded, and insured.
Check their credentials and online customer feedback from HomeGuide and Google.
Be cautious of companies marketing 100% free solar panels as they may be a scam. If a deal looks too good to be true, it typically is.
Never pay in full before the installation is complete.
Questions to ask an Ohio-licensed solar panel installer
Ask the following questions when researching Ohio solar panel installers near you:
How long have you been installing solar panels in Ohio?
How many systems have you installed in the state?
Do I need to replace my roof before installing a solar panel system?
What type of solar panels do you recommend for my roof?
What is the typical payback period for this type of solar panel installation?
How much money can I expect to save per year with this solar system?
Can you give me an estimate with a full breakdown of everything that's included?
What additional costs might come up during the panel installation?
What type of inverter do you recommend for this system, and why?
Do you include ongoing inspection and maintenance with the installation?
What does the warranty cover, and for how long?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.