Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bedford, OH (2024 Update)
- Bedford Solar Installation Cost: $18,803
- 25-Year Savings: $12,793
- Payback Period: 17.5 Years
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Updated February 03, 2024
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bedford
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Bedford.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Bedford, the typical cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.The average Bedford homeowner needs a 7.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $18,803 with the federal tax credit, or $26,888 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Bedford depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.Even with the high initial cost, the average Bedford homeowner can save about $13,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Bedford, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Bedford
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-17,549 |
3 years | $-15,041 |
5 years | $-12,534 |
7 years | $-10,026 |
9 years | $-7,518 |
11 years | $-5,011 |
13 years | $-2,503 |
15 years | $4 |
17 years | $2,512 |
19 years | $5,020 |
21 years | $7,527 |
23 years | $10,035 |
25 years | $12,542 |
Top Solar Installers in Bedford
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Hiring a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Solar companies offer key benefits that can help you get the most out of your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
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 Bedford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bedford
The cost of installing a solar system in Bedford can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Bedford, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Bedford, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Bedford is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points.Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fits within your budget.
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 | $5,601 | 18.2 years |
8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $7,850 | 17.8 years |
10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $10,290 | 17.5 years |
12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $12,921 | 17.1 years |
14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $15,743 | 16.8 years |
16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $18,756 | 16.4 years |
18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $21,960 | 16.1 years |
20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $25,354 | 15.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, such as:
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the longevity of your solar panel system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
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 Bedford, OH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bedford?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,050 for a 5-kW system and $34,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in Bedford?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for 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 home 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.