Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bedford, OH (2025 Update)
- Bedford Solar Installation Cost: $18,803
- 25-Year Savings: $12,793
- Payback Period: 17.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bedford
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Bedford.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Bedford, the average cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.9-kW system would cost about $18,803 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Bedford homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Bedford can save around $13,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Bedford, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Bedford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,549 |
| 3 years | $-15,041 |
| 5 years | $-12,534 |
| 7 years | $-10,026 |
| 9 years | $-7,518 |
| 11 years | $-5,011 |
| 13 years | $-2,503 |
| 15 years | $4 |
| 17 years | $2,512 |
| 19 years | $5,020 |
| 21 years | $7,527 |
| 23 years | $10,035 |
| 25 years | $12,542 |
Top Solar Installers in Bedford
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel installer can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance in the long run.
If you’d like to go solar but still aren’t sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
See all of the solar companies in Bedford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bedford
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Bedford: 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 cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,410.The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Bedford homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Bedford, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have 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 | $3.55 | $14,895 | $5,601 | 18.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $7,850 | 17.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $10,290 | 17.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $12,921 | 17.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $15,743 | 16.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $18,756 | 16.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $21,960 | 16.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $25,354 | 15.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the endurance of your solar panel system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. A couple of 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.
EcoWatch's Bedford, OH Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Bedford?
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. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.