Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bellefontaine, OH (2023 Update)
- Bellefontaine Solar Installation Cost: $13,554
- 25-Year Savings: $18,489
- Payback Period: 10.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bellefontaine
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Bellefontaine.
In Bellefontaine, solar panels cost about 2.56 per watt on average. The average Bellefontaine homeowner needs a 7.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $13,548 with the federal tax credit, or $19,374 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Bellefontaine depending on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $16,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installation company in Bellefontaine, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Bellefontaine
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,447 |
| 3 years | $-13,233 |
| 5 years | $-13,019 |
| 7 years | $-12,806 |
| 9 years | $-12,592 |
| 11 years | $-12,379 |
| 13 years | $-12,165 |
| 15 years | $-11,951 |
| 17 years | $-11,738 |
| 19 years | $-11,524 |
| 21 years | $-11,311 |
| 23 years | $-11,097 |
| 25 years | $-10,883 |
Top Solar Installers in Bellefontaine
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra labor and know-how. Because of that, most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Bellefontaine
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bellefontaine
For many Bellefontaine homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Bellefontaine, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that greatly 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 influences the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Bellefontaine average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Bellefontaine provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you pick will influence your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Bellefontaine have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $14,237 | 11.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.61 | $14,623 | $19,269 | 10.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.56 | $17,920 | $24,445 | 10.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.51 | $21,074 | $29,764 | 10.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.46 | $24,084 | $35,227 | 10.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.41 | $26,952 | $40,832 | 9.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,676 | $46,581 | 9.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.30 | $32,256 | $52,474 | 9.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of options before deciding.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Bellefontaine, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bellefontaine?
The average cost of solar panels in Bellefontaine is about $12,800 for a 5-kW system and $25,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can 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.
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.