Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ottawa, OH (2024 Update)
- Ottawa Solar Installation Cost: $18,208
- 25-Year Savings: $17,935
- Payback Period: 14.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ottawa
We break down average solar pricing in Ottawa.
In Ottawa, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 7.6-kW system would cost about $18,208 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Even with the significant initial cost, the average Ottawa homeowner can save about $16,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To get a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Ottawa, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ottawa
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,876 |
| 3 years | $-14,212 |
| 5 years | $-11,548 |
| 7 years | $-8,884 |
| 9 years | $-6,220 |
| 11 years | $-3,556 |
| 13 years | $-892 |
| 15 years | $1,772 |
| 17 years | $4,436 |
| 19 years | $7,100 |
| 21 years | $9,764 |
| 23 years | $12,428 |
| 25 years | $15,093 |
Top Solar Installers in Ottawa
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to go with a solar installer since handling can be a challenging project. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy usage, but working with a solar installer can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Ottawa, we've 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 Ottawa
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ottawa
For many Ottawa homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Ottawa, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $3,410. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Ottawa average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Ottawa to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s vital to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can influence your pricing. Ottawa’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Ottawa have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $9,964 | 15.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $13,668 | 14.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $17,562 | 14.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $21,648 | 14.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $25,924 | 13.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $30,391 | 13.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $35,049 | 13.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $39,898 | 13.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Ottawa, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of options before making your decision.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a good company.
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 Ottawa, OH Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ottawa?
The average cost of solar panels in Ottawa 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 certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Ottawa?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home 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 savings from going solar.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Ottawa, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size 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.