Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cambridge, OH (2025 Update)
- Cambridge Solar Installation Cost: $18,369
- 25-Year Savings: $20,403
- Payback Period: 13.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cambridge
We break down average solar pricing in Cambridge.
The average cost of solar panels in Cambridge is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.7-kW system would cost about $18,369 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Cambridge, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Cambridge
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,037 |
| 3 years | $-14,373 |
| 5 years | $-11,709 |
| 7 years | $-9,045 |
| 9 years | $-6,381 |
| 11 years | $-3,717 |
| 13 years | $-1,053 |
| 15 years | $1,611 |
| 17 years | $4,275 |
| 19 years | $6,939 |
| 21 years | $9,603 |
| 23 years | $12,267 |
| 25 years | $14,931 |
Top Solar Installers in Cambridge
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Since solar panels are exposed to the elements every day, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
Working with a professional solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Cambridge
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cambridge
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Cambridge: 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 panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production require 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 type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Cambridge to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in higher prices over time due to interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Cambridge is the company you hire to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, there’s no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $11,764 | 14.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $16,067 | 13.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $20,562 | 13.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $25,247 | 13.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $30,123 | 12.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $35,190 | 12.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $40,448 | 12.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $45,897 | 12.1 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:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Even 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.
EcoWatch's Cambridge, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Cambridge?
The average cost of solar panels in Cambridge is about $17,050 for a 5-kW system and $34,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Cambridge?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Cambridge. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Cambridge, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had 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.