Solar Panel Cost Guide in Walnut, OH (2023 Update)

  • Walnut Solar Installation Cost: $13,471
  • 25-Year Savings: $16,795
  • Payback Period: 11.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Walnut

See how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Walnut.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Walnut typically cost about 2.56. The average solar panel system size in Walnut is around 7.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $13,476 for a solar installation, or $19,271 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

The true price you pay can be above or below the average in Walnut depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.

To get a free quote from a vetted solar installation company in Walnut, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Walnut

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-12,139
3 years $-9,475
5 years $-6,811
7 years $-4,147
9 years $-1,483
11 years $1,181
13 years $3,845
15 years $6,509
17 years $9,173
19 years $11,837
21 years $14,501
23 years $17,165
25 years $19,829

Top Solar Installers in Walnut

Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra effort and handiness. That's why the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. A solar company can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.

You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some in Walnut:

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 Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Walnut

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Walnut

For many Walnut homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Walnut, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a popular option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. Though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Walnut homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Walnut, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions 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 $2.66 $11,182 $12,974 11.6 years
8 kW $2.61 $14,623 $17,586 11.4 years
10 kW $2.56 $17,920 $22,341 11.1 years
12 kW $2.51 $21,074 $27,239 10.9 years
14 kW $2.46 $24,084 $32,281 10.7 years
16 kW $2.41 $26,952 $37,466 10.5 years
18 kW $2.36 $29,676 $42,794 10.2 years
20 kW $2.30 $32,256 $48,266 10.0 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 durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure 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.
  • Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high 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.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want to install plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
  • Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.

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 Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Walnut, OH Solar Cost FAQs

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

This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Walnut?

A solar panel system isn't free in Walnut, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.

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

The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.

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.

Follow us