Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dayton, OH (2024 Update)

  • Dayton Solar Installation Cost: $17,836
  • 25-Year Savings: $10,022
  • Payback Period: 19.0 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dayton

Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Dayton.

The average cost of solar panels in Dayton is 3 per watt.Because a 7.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Dayton, the average price of going solar will be about $17,836 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

These figures are only averages, and your own solar costs will most likely vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Dayton see about $12,000 in savings on energy 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 Dayton

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-16,814
3 years $-14,771
5 years $-12,727
7 years $-10,684
9 years $-8,641
11 years $-6,598
13 years $-4,554
15 years $-2,511
17 years $-468
19 years $1,575
21 years $3,619
23 years $5,662
25 years $7,705

Top Solar Installers in Dayton

Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra effort and know-how. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Local solar installers can also help you optimize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.

If you're looking for a solar company in Dayton, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

See all of the solar companies in Dayton

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dayton

For many Dayton homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Dayton, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Dayton, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,410 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Dayton, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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

For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in Dayton, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.It’s a good idea to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installer you select will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 $3,905 19.8 years
8 kW $3.48 $19,478 $5,588 19.4 years
10 kW $3.41 $23,870 $7,463 19.0 years
12 kW $3.34 $28,071 $9,528 18.7 years
14 kW $3.27 $32,081 $11,785 18.3 years
16 kW $3.21 $35,900 $14,232 17.9 years
18 kW $3.14 $39,529 $16,870 17.5 years
20 kW $3.07 $42,966 $19,700 17.1 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar panels, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • 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.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of offerings before deciding.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

EcoWatch's Dayton, OH Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Dayton?

The average cost of solar panels in Dayton is about $17,050 for a 5-kW system and $34,100 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 use.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Dayton?

Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Dayton?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.

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