Solar Panel Cost Guide in Willoughby, OH (2024 Update)
- Willoughby Solar Installation Cost: $18,626
- 25-Year Savings: $13,397
- Payback Period: 17.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Willoughby
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Willoughby.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Willoughby typically cost around 3.The average solar panel system size in Willoughby is around 7.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $18,626 for a solar installation, or $26,635 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of going solar can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Willoughby can save about $13,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar company in Willoughby, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Willoughby
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,372 |
| 3 years | $-14,865 |
| 5 years | $-12,357 |
| 7 years | $-9,849 |
| 9 years | $-7,342 |
| 11 years | $-4,834 |
| 13 years | $-2,327 |
| 15 years | $181 |
| 17 years | $2,689 |
| 19 years | $5,196 |
| 21 years | $7,704 |
| 23 years | $10,211 |
| 25 years | $12,719 |
Top Solar Installers in Willoughby
Installing solar panels yourself can be a stressful undertaking, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- 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 Willoughby
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Willoughby
For many Willoughby homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Willoughby, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over 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 generation use 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 $3,410.The brand of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will largely impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Moreover, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Willoughby homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Willoughby, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Willoughby have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $6,158 | 17.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $8,593 | 17.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $11,218 | 17.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $14,035 | 16.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $17,042 | 16.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $20,240 | 16.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $23,630 | 15.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $27,210 | 15.3 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 efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Though 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 the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though 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 be sure to ask for their list of options before deciding.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Willoughby, OH Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Willoughby?
The average cost of solar panels in Willoughby 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 kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Do solar panels increase your home value?
Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Willoughby is currently $214,584, which means you could be looking at a value of about $8,798 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Willoughby is a fruitful investment.
How long do solar panels last in Willoughby?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level 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.
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.