Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clark, OH (Mar 2023)
- Clark Solar Installation Cost: $13,798
- 25-Year Savings: $19,175
- Payback Period: 10.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clark
We go over average solar pricing in Clark.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Clark, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.56 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.7-kW system would cost about $13,798 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. With typical savings of about $16,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Clark find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Clark
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,479 |
| 3 years | $-9,842 |
| 5 years | $-7,204 |
| 7 years | $-4,566 |
| 9 years | $-1,928 |
| 11 years | $710 |
| 13 years | $3,348 |
| 15 years | $5,986 |
| 17 years | $8,623 |
| 19 years | $11,261 |
| 21 years | $13,899 |
| 23 years | $16,537 |
| 25 years | $19,175 |
Top Solar Installers in Clark
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Hiring a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Solar installers offer key benefits that can help you maximize your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Clark
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clark
Cost is typically 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 Clark: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Clark, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
If paying for a solar system in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a popular route because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only 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 finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you select will affect your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Clark know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $14,509 | 10.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.61 | $14,623 | $19,632 | 10.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.56 | $17,920 | $24,899 | 10.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.51 | $21,074 | $30,309 | 10.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.46 | $24,084 | $35,862 | 10.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.41 | $26,952 | $41,558 | 9.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,676 | $47,398 | 9.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.30 | $32,256 | $53,382 | 9.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you hire.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Clark, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Clark?
The average cost of solar panels in Clark 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 like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Clark?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Clark?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires 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 house 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.