Solar Panel Cost Guide in Paulding, OH (2023 Update)
- Paulding Solar Installation Cost: $13,637
- 25-Year Savings: $16,012
- Payback Period: 11.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Paulding
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Paulding.
In Paulding, solar panels cost about 2.56 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 7.6-kW system would cost about $13,637 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be above or below the average in Paulding based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. With typical savings of about $15,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Paulding find investing in solar has a decent ROI.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Paulding
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,451 |
| 3 years | $-10,079 |
| 5 years | $-7,707 |
| 7 years | $-5,335 |
| 9 years | $-2,964 |
| 11 years | $-592 |
| 13 years | $1,780 |
| 15 years | $4,152 |
| 17 years | $6,524 |
| 19 years | $8,896 |
| 21 years | $11,268 |
| 23 years | $13,640 |
| 25 years | $16,012 |
Top Solar Installers in Paulding
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to go with a solar installation company since putting up solar panels yourself can be a challenging project. Another advantage of using a solar installer is that they can help you maximize your return of investment by lowering your future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and informing you of local incentives you can take advantage of.
Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Paulding
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Paulding
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Paulding: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss 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 main 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 raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,560. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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 over time on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Paulding average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in Paulding, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
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 | $12,199 | 12.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.61 | $14,623 | $16,553 | 11.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.56 | $17,920 | $21,049 | 11.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.51 | $21,074 | $25,689 | 11.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.46 | $24,084 | $30,472 | 11.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.41 | $26,952 | $35,399 | 10.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,676 | $40,469 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.30 | $32,256 | $45,682 | 10.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind 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:
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the longevity of your solar energy system, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Paulding, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Paulding?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,800 for a 5-kW system and $25,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Paulding?
You can't get solar panels for free in Paulding. 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 rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Paulding?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for 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 usually 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.