Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cleveland, TN (2024 Update)
- Cleveland Solar Installation Cost: $19,618
- 25-Year Savings: $9,230
- Payback Period: 21.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cleveland
See how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Cleveland.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Cleveland it’s 4 per watt.The average Cleveland homeowner needs a 7.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $19,618 with the federal tax credit, or $28,054 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Cleveland homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With average savings of about $12,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Cleveland find investing in solar can pay off big.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Cleveland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,061 |
| 3 years | $-14,948 |
| 5 years | $-11,835 |
| 7 years | $-8,722 |
| 9 years | $-5,609 |
| 11 years | $-2,496 |
| 13 years | $617 |
| 15 years | $3,730 |
| 17 years | $6,843 |
| 19 years | $9,956 |
| 21 years | $13,069 |
| 23 years | $16,182 |
| 25 years | $19,295 |
Top Solar Installers in Cleveland
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a challenging project. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Cleveland, therefore optimizing your ROI.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Cleveland, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Cleveland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cleveland
For many Cleveland homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Cleveland, 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
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $3,580. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable option because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Cleveland, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.72 | $15,637 | $1,895 | 22.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $2,927 | 21.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $4,160 | 21.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $5,594 | 21.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $7,228 | 20.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $9,062 | 20.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $11,097 | 19.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $13,333 | 19.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Cleveland, TN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Cleveland?
The average cost of solar panels in Cleveland is about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Cleveland?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Cleveland. However, you may still be able to install 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 solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Cleveland, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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 household 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.