Solar Panel Cost Guide in Amherst, OH (2024 Update)
- Amherst Solar Installation Cost: $16,893
- 25-Year Savings: $16,476
- Payback Period: 14.5 Years
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Updated February 03, 2024
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Amherst
We break down average solar pricing in Amherst.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Amherst generally cost about 3.The average solar panel system size in Amherst is around 7.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,893 for a solar installation, or $24,157 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Amherst depending on a variety of factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Amherst
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-15,673 |
3 years | $-13,233 |
5 years | $-10,792 |
7 years | $-8,352 |
9 years | $-5,911 |
11 years | $-3,471 |
13 years | $-1,030 |
15 years | $1,410 |
17 years | $3,851 |
19 years | $6,291 |
21 years | $8,732 |
23 years | $11,172 |
25 years | $13,612 |
Top Solar Installers in Amherst
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and expertise. That's one of the reasons most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar company too, which can save you more money over time.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Amherst, the EcoWatch team has 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 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 Amherst
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Amherst
Though the average cost of a solar system in Amherst is $16,893, your actual cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s a priority to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Amherst homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Amherst, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $9,825 | 15.1 years |
8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $13,482 | 14.8 years |
10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $17,330 | 14.5 years |
12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $21,369 | 14.2 years |
14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $25,599 | 13.9 years |
16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $30,020 | 13.6 years |
18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $34,631 | 13.3 years |
20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $39,434 | 13.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you opt for.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
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 Amherst, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Amherst?
The average cost of solar panels in Amherst is about $17,050 for a 5-kW system and $34,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Amherst?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Amherst?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.