Solar Panels in Ohio2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in Ohio.
$17,000–$29,000
Avg system cost
$11,900–$20,300
After 30% ITC
4.3 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.138/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in Ohio?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in Ohio
Est. system size
7.6 kW
Gross cost
$22,173
Federal tax credit
−$6,652
Net cost
$15,521
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 8.6 years — then 11 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
Ohio Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
Ohio State
State Incentive
Property & sales tax exemptions + AEP Ohio and Duke rebates
Additional Ohio Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: Solar system value exempt from property taxes
Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment exempt from state sales tax
Solar Installation Cost in Ohio by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,590,960 | $996,319/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,027,344 | $1,394,846/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,463,728 | $1,793,373/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,618,304 | $2,391,165/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. Ohio installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in Ohio
How much do solar panels cost in Ohio?
Solar installation in Ohio typically costs $17,000–$29,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, most homeowners pay $11,900–$20,300 net.
Is solar worth it in Ohio?
Yes — Ohio homeowners benefit from 4.3 average peak sun hours per day. The 30% federal ITC combined with property & sales tax exemptions + aep ohio and duke rebates make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in Ohio?
Property & sales tax exemptions + AEP Ohio and Duke rebates. On top of state incentives, all Ohio homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Your solar system is also exempt from property tax assessment. Solar equipment is exempt from sales tax in ${s.name}.
How long is the payback period for solar in Ohio?
Based on Ohio's average electricity rate of $0.138/kWh and 4.3 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 8.6–12 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does Ohio have net metering?
Yes — Ohio has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.