Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ashtabula, OH (2023 Update)

  • Ashtabula Solar Installation Cost: $14,031
  • 25-Year Savings: $13,349
  • Payback Period: 12.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ashtabula

Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Ashtabula.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Ashtabula typically cost around 2.56. Since a 7.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Ashtabula, the average price of going solar will be about $14,031 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Ashtabula can save about $13,000 on their power bills over 20 years.

To get a free quote from a top solar company in Ashtabula, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Ashtabula

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-12,936
3 years $-10,746
5 years $-8,555
7 years $-6,365
9 years $-4,175
11 years $-1,984
13 years $206
15 years $2,397
17 years $4,587
19 years $6,777
21 years $8,968
23 years $11,158
25 years $13,349

Top Solar Installers in Ashtabula

Putting up solar panels on your own can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. In addition, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, opting for a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives.

You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Ashtabula

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ashtabula

For many Ashtabula homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Ashtabula, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Ashtabula, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Ashtabula, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $2.66 $11,182 $9,802 13.3 years
8 kW $2.61 $14,623 $13,356 13.1 years
10 kW $2.56 $17,920 $17,053 12.8 years
12 kW $2.51 $21,074 $20,894 12.6 years
14 kW $2.46 $24,084 $24,878 12.3 years
16 kW $2.41 $26,952 $29,005 12.0 years
18 kW $2.36 $29,676 $33,276 11.8 years
20 kW $2.30 $32,256 $37,690 11.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose significantly influences your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of options before making your decision.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
  • Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar energy system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Ashtabula, OH Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ashtabula?

The average cost of solar panels in Ashtabula is about $12,800 for a 5-kW system and $25,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Ashtabula?

Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.

How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $699.46 per year.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.

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.

Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.

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