OhioSolar Panel Costs & Savings
Ohio averages 3.8 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 10.2 years. Homeowners can save $28,600 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
3.8 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$18,600
before incentives
Payback Period
10.2 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$28,600
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in Ohio
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3.1/W) | $18,600 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,580 |
| Net Cost | $13,020 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
15.21¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$126/mo
Solar Incentives in Ohio
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in Ohio
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45201 | Cincinnati | 3.9 hrs | $1,068 | 12.2 yrs |
| 45401 | Dayton | 3.9 hrs | $1,068 | 12.2 yrs |
| 45601 | Chillicothe | 3.9 hrs | $1,068 | 12.2 yrs |
| 45001 | Amelia | 3.9 hrs | $1,068 | 12.2 yrs |
| 43001 | Alexandria | 3.8 hrs | $1,040 | 12.6 yrs |
| 43201 | Columbus | 3.8 hrs | $1,040 | 12.6 yrs |
| 45801 | Lima | 3.8 hrs | $1,040 | 12.6 yrs |
| 44301 | Akron | 3.7 hrs | $1,013 | 12.9 yrs |
| 44601 | Alliance | 3.7 hrs | $1,013 | 12.9 yrs |
| 43501 | Archbold | 3.7 hrs | $1,013 | 12.9 yrs |
| 43601 | Toledo | 3.7 hrs | $1,013 | 12.9 yrs |
| 44801 | Bucyrus | 3.7 hrs | $1,013 | 12.9 yrs |
| 44101 | Cleveland | 3.6 hrs | $986 | 13.3 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Ohio
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Ohio?
A typical 6kW solar system in Ohio costs approximately $18,600 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,580), the net cost is approximately $13,020.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in Ohio?
The average solar payback period in Ohio is 10.2 years, slower than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does Ohio have net metering?
Ohio has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does Ohio get for solar?
Ohio averages 3.8 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.7 hours below the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 8,322 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA