Solar Panel Cost Guide in Darby, OH (2025 Update)
- Darby Solar Installation Cost: $17,798
- 25-Year Savings: $14,067
- Payback Period: 16.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Darby
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Darby.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Darby it’s 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.5-kW system would cost about $17,798 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Darby depending on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Darby can save around $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Darby for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Darby
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,780 |
| 3 years | $-14,744 |
| 5 years | $-12,707 |
| 7 years | $-10,670 |
| 9 years | $-8,634 |
| 11 years | $-6,597 |
| 13 years | $-4,561 |
| 15 years | $-2,524 |
| 17 years | $-487 |
| 19 years | $1,549 |
| 21 years | $3,586 |
| 23 years | $5,622 |
| 25 years | $7,659 |
Top Solar Installers in Darby
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
See all of the solar companies in Darby
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Darby
The cost of installing a solar system in Darby can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The largest one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $3,410. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost 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 electric bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Darby average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Darby homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s vital to keep that in mind as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panel system can affect the cost. Darby’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The company’s size can sometimes play the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $7,177 | 16.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $9,951 | 16.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $12,916 | 16.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $16,072 | 15.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $19,419 | 15.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $22,957 | 15.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $26,686 | 14.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $30,606 | 14.6 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through fully 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 if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- 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 substantial role in the company you opt for.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information 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.
EcoWatch's Darby, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Darby?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,050 for a 5-kW system and $34,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Darby?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Darby. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Darby, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Darby?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.