Solar Panel Cost Guide in Columbiana, OH (2023 Update)
- Columbiana Solar Installation Cost: $14,045
- 25-Year Savings: $12,392
- Payback Period: 13.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Columbiana
We go over average solar pricing in Columbiana.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Columbiana it's 2.56 per watt. The average Columbiana homeowner needs a 7.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,049 with the federal tax credit, or $20,090 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Columbiana see about $13,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Columbiana
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,957 |
| 3 years | $-13,781 |
| 5 years | $-13,605 |
| 7 years | $-13,428 |
| 9 years | $-13,252 |
| 11 years | $-13,076 |
| 13 years | $-12,900 |
| 15 years | $-12,723 |
| 17 years | $-12,547 |
| 19 years | $-12,371 |
| 21 years | $-12,195 |
| 23 years | $-12,018 |
| 25 years | $-11,842 |
Top Solar Installers in Columbiana
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Going with a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. Local solar installers can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can take advantage of and by providing warranties and repairs.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Columbiana
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Columbiana
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Columbiana: 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 size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $2,560. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Columbiana, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Columbiana to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Columbiana, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with 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 car 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 | $9,056 | 13.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.61 | $14,623 | $12,362 | 13.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.56 | $17,920 | $15,811 | 13.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.51 | $21,074 | $19,403 | 13.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.46 | $24,084 | $23,139 | 12.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.41 | $26,952 | $27,018 | 12.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,676 | $31,040 | 12.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.30 | $32,256 | $35,206 | 12.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will impact not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, including:
- 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 how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar energy system, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Columbiana, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Columbiana?
The average cost of solar panels in Columbiana 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 certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Columbiana?
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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $674.62 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Columbiana?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.