Solar Panel Cost Guide in Akron, OH (2025 Update)
- Akron Solar Installation Cost: $18,650
- 25-Year Savings: $13,111
- Payback Period: 17.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Akron
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Akron.
The average cost of solar panels in Akron is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.8-kW system would cost about $18,650 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Akron
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,424 |
| 3 years | $-14,971 |
| 5 years | $-12,519 |
| 7 years | $-10,066 |
| 9 years | $-7,614 |
| 11 years | $-5,161 |
| 13 years | $-2,709 |
| 15 years | $-256 |
| 17 years | $2,196 |
| 19 years | $4,649 |
| 21 years | $7,101 |
| 23 years | $9,553 |
| 25 years | $12,006 |
Top Solar Installers in Akron
Installing solar panels yourself can be a dangerous project, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Solar installers offer key benefits that can help you get the most out of your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
See all of the solar companies in Akron
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Akron
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Akron: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,410. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Akron, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Akron to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest.Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Akron homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar system can play a part in determining the cost. Akron’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fit into your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.55 | $14,895 | $5,926 | 17.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $8,283 | 17.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $10,831 | 17.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $13,570 | 16.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $16,500 | 16.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $19,621 | 16.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $22,933 | 15.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $26,436 | 15.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from past customers.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
EcoWatch's Akron, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Akron?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,050 for a 5-kW system and $34,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Akron?
Solar panels aren’t free in Akron, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $694.02 per year.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.