Solar Panel Cost Guide in Unity, OH (2023 Update)
- Unity Solar Installation Cost: $14,031
- 25-Year Savings: $12,406
- Payback Period: 13.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Unity
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Unity.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Unity generally cost around 2.56. The average solar panel system size in Unity is around 7.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $14,031 for a solar installation, or $20,064 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Unity see about $13,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installer in Unity, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Unity
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,974 |
| 3 years | $-10,859 |
| 5 years | $-8,744 |
| 7 years | $-6,629 |
| 9 years | $-4,514 |
| 11 years | $-2,399 |
| 13 years | $-284 |
| 15 years | $1,831 |
| 17 years | $3,946 |
| 19 years | $6,061 |
| 21 years | $8,176 |
| 23 years | $10,291 |
| 25 years | $12,406 |
Top Solar Installers in Unity
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to use a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project. The payback period on a solar system will vary depending on factors like your location and energy usage, but going with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
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 Unity
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Unity
Although the average cost of a solar system in Unity is $14,031, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production need 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 brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Unity provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. It's wise to include 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
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Unity is the company you get to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. The company's size sometimes plays the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have access to more resources and bulk 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 names.
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 | $9,075 | 13.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.61 | $14,623 | $12,387 | 13.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.56 | $17,920 | $15,842 | 13.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.51 | $21,074 | $19,440 | 13.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.46 | $24,084 | $23,182 | 12.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.41 | $26,952 | $27,067 | 12.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,676 | $31,096 | 12.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.30 | $32,256 | $35,268 | 11.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Unity, OH Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Unity?
The average cost of solar panels in Unity 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 such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Unity?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation 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.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.