A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Solar Panels in Ohio

If you’re a homeowner thinking about installing solar panels in Ohio, you’re not alone. More and more Ohioans are exploring solar energy as a way to reduce utility bills, gain energy independence, and shrink their environmental footprint. But if you’re just starting out, the world of solar can feel a bit overwhelming.

This guide will walk you through the basics of going solar in the Buckeye State and how to find a reputable installer for your project.

Jump to a section:

• Is it worth going solar in Ohio?
  • Savings potential
  • Ohio solar incentives
  • Environmental benefits
• Ohio solar panel installers
• Frequently asked questions

Is it worth going solar in Ohio?

Though Ohio might not get as much sunshine as other states, solar is still a smart investment for many homeowners across the state. Thanks to falling equipment costs, a solid net metering policy, and available tax incentives, solar energy is more accessible than ever before.

Let’s break down the key benefits of installing solar panels in Ohio.

Savings Potential: How Much Can You Save with Solar Panels in Ohio?

One of the biggest reasons people consider solar in Ohio is the potential for long-term savings. When you install solar panels on your home, you generate your own electricity and rely less on your utility company. That means replacing most or all of your electricity bill with a lower cost for solar power.

While your exact savings will depend on your energy usage, system size, and local rates, the average Ohio homeowner can expect to save tens of thousands of dollars over the 25-year warrantied lifespan of a solar system.

Plus, with electricity rates rising over time, going solar can be a hedge against future utility price hikes. Since 2001, the average residential electricity rate in Ohio has nearly doubled, and there are two main reasons to believe this will continue.

1. Building, maintaining, and modernizing the aging power grid is expensive, and this cost is placed on utility customers
2. Electricity demand is increasing as power-hungry data centers, manufacturing centers, and electric vehicles connect to the grid

In 2025, the average monthly electric bill in Ohio is around $150. If rates continue to rise as they have, that means paying over $70,000 for grid electricity over the next 25 years. A solar system to offset an average Ohioan’s electricity usage may cost between $25,000 and $30,000 before incentives. With the 30% federal tax credit for solar, that drops to a net cost of $17,500 to $21,000 for solar power.

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Incentives for Solar Panels in Ohio

Even though Ohio doesn’t currently offer state-level rebates for solar, homeowners can still take advantage of valuable federal and utility-based incentives.

30% Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC):
This is the biggest incentive available, and it may not be available for much longer. Homeowners who install solar panels in Ohio (or any state) can claim a federal tax credit worth 30% of the total system cost. That means if your system costs $20,000, you claim a $6,000 credit on your federal tax return.

If you’ve been considering solar and want to claim the 30% tax credit, now is the absolute best time to get started. The fate of this incentive is uncertain beyond 2025, and the best way to lock in the full 30% value is to have your solar system installed and inspected by December 31, 2025.

Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs):
Ohio has a renewable portfolio standard, which allows homeowners to earn and sell SRECs for the clean energy their systems produce. One SREC is earned for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) your system generates, and is currently worth $3. These certificates can be sold to utilities that need to meet state renewable energy requirements, putting extra cash in your pocket.

The average solar system in Ohio would earn 10 SRECs per year. At $3 per SREC, this isn’t incredibly lucrative for solar owners, but it’s up for grabs nonetheless.

Net Metering in Ohio:

Ohio has a statewide net metering policy, which is key to maximizing your solar savings. Here’s how it works:

When your solar system produces more electricity than your home uses — such as during sunny afternoons — that excess energy is sent back to the grid. In return, your utility gives you credits on your electric bill. Then, during times when your system isn’t producing enough (like at night), you can use those credits to offset your electricity usage.

This system helps balance your energy production and usage throughout the year, ensuring you get the most value out of your solar panels.

It’s important to note that the value of net metering credits and the rules around them can vary slightly depending on your utility company. Be sure to check with your local provider or consult a solar.com Energy Advisor for specific details.

Environmental Benefits of Solar in Ohio

Beyond the financial perks, going solar is a powerful way to reduce your environmental impact. Ohio still relies heavily on coal and natural gas for electricity, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

By switching to clean, renewable energy, you’re helping to:

• Improve local air and water quality
• Lower your carbon footprint
• Reduce demand for fossil fuels
• Support a cleaner, more resilient power grid

In fact, the benefits of cleaner energy have been documented just across the border in Pennsylvania! Following the closure of a coal processing plant in Neville Island there was an “immediate 42% decrease in emergency room visits for heart problems.”

Finding a solar panel installer in Ohio

When you’re ready to take the next step, it’s important to find a reputable installer. There are many solar companies in Ohio, ranging from local contractors to national brands. Here are a few tips for choosing the right one:

• Check reviews and references: Look for companies with strong customer feedback and a solid track record.
• Compare multiple quotes: Get 3 or more quotes to evaluate your equipment and pricing options.
• Understand warranties and maintenance: A reputable installer will offer strong warranties and explain how your system will be maintained over time.

On solar.com, getting custom solar proposals from reputable installers is easy. Start with a consultation call to see if solar makes sense for your home, and we can generate custom proposals from our network of thoroughly vetted installers.

Frequently asked questions

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

Yes, most utilities in Ohio offer net metering for solar owners. This allows you to earn credit for your excess solar power to offset the cost of using grid electricity when the sun isn’t shining.