There can be solar tax credits and incentives available at the federal, state and local levels. The calculator above will show you the value of all incentives your home is eligible for.
Although the Ohio Public Utilities Commission recently reduced the amount of credit you get when you send unused solar power back to your utility, solar power still makes a lot of sense here for homeowners.
In the future, we'd like to see more support from Mike DeWine for homeowners who want to go solar, and on a strengthened renewable portfolio standard. Ohioans deserve to be part of a profitable renewable energy future for us all.
Learn what solar incentives are available to Ohio homeowners
See what Ohio solar incentives you qualify for based on your utility company and city
Find out how much these incentives and/or Ohio solar tax credits will reduce your cost to go solar and add batteries
The federal solar investment tax credit will have the biggest impact on the cost you will face to go solar in Ohio
If you install your photovoltaic system before the end of 2032, the federal tax credit is 30% of the cost of your solar panel system. This is 30% off the entire cost of the system including equipment, labor, and permitting.
Example: If your solar energy system costs $20,000, your federal solar tax credit would be $20,000 x 30% = $6,000.
The federal tax credit falls to 26% starting in 2033.
With net metering in some states, you get full retail rate credit for the amount of electricity you send back into the grid with your solar panels.
Net Metering requires your utility to monitor how much energy your solar power system produces and how much energy you actually consume, and make sure you get credit for the surplus.
Ohio used to have one of the strongest net metering policies in the country. However, now any net excess generation your system produces on a monthly basis will be credited to your bill, but only at the per-kWh generation charge, which averages between 4 and 5 cents per kWh across the state. While that’s still a credit, it’s less than half of current retail electricity rates of $0.12/kwh.
Therefore, it’s important to size your solar energy system well, so you aren’t feeding in a whole bunch of credits back to your utility when you aren’t able to use the power onise.
Ohio separates itself from the pack as one of the handful of states that allows you to request a check for any credits accumulated over the course of a 12-month billing cycle. That’s right – if you run a surplus for the year, the utility company will actually pay you.
While Ohio does not have a dedicated state rebate for solar panel installation, some manufacturers like LG offer their own solar rebates. These programs are usually time sensitive. For example, LG offers a $600 solar rebate on their equipment, which your installer can help you redeem over the next year.
Here’s some great news: the value of your home goes up when you install solar panels. Here’s some okay news: The cities of Cleveland and Cincinnati will let you keep that extra home value off the property tax rolls for many years to come. Here's some not-so-good news: the rest of the state has property tax relief only for commercial solar installations.
Ohio does have a sales tax exemption for solar energy though! That means you’ll save 5.75% on the purchase of your new system. On an investment of tens of thousands of dollars, that’s nothing to sneeze at.
Showing data for:
Prices based on a 10.8kW system, after 30% federal tax credit
31 solar companies in Ohio provide pricing on SolarReviews. Here are the best rated companies near you.
4.88 142 Reviews
Greg, over 1 month
I must say from start to finish Paradise Solar exceeded my expectations. From the initial visit they were professional, knowledgeable and courteous! Their install team is first class, very neat work and on time with installation. Top to bottom I would recommend them to anyone! Thank you PES! Greg
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Average cost (5kW system)
$16,000 ($3.20 per watt)
Greg, over 1 month
I must say from start to finish Paradise Solar exceeded my expectations. From the initial visit they were professional, knowledgeable and courteous! Their install team is first class, very neat work and on time with installation. Top to bottom I would recommend them to anyone! Thank you PES! Greg
4.81 91 Reviews
Seth Little, over 1 month
I had an absolutely outstanding experience with Gold Path Solar—easily a 5 out of 5 stars. From the very beginning, Jake and Karim went above and beyond in every way possible. Their level of professionalism is truly top-tier, but what stood out even more was how genuine they are. You can tell they truly care about their customers, not just the sale. They treated me like family throughout the entire process, always making sure I felt comfortable, informed, and confident in every decision. They took the time to thoroughly explain everything, answered every question I had, and never once made me feel rushed or pressured. Their communication was excellent—they kept me consistently updated and made sure I fully understood all the benefits of going solar. It’s rare to come across people who combine this level of professionalism with such authentic care and respect for their customers. If you’re tired of rising utility costs and want a company you can genuinely trust, I highly recommend Gold Path Solar. Jake and Karim made the entire transition seamless, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.
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Seth Little, over 1 month
I had an absolutely outstanding experience with Gold Path Solar—easily a 5 out of 5 stars. From the very beginning, Jake and Karim went above and beyond in every way possible. Their level of professionalism is truly top-tier, but what stood out even more was how genuine they are. You can tell they truly care about their customers, not just the sale. They treated me like family throughout the entire process, always making sure I felt comfortable, informed, and confident in every decision. They took the time to thoroughly explain everything, answered every question I had, and never once made me feel rushed or pressured. Their communication was excellent—they kept me consistently updated and made sure I fully understood all the benefits of going solar. It’s rare to come across people who combine this level of professionalism with such authentic care and respect for their customers. If you’re tired of rising utility costs and want a company you can genuinely trust, I highly recommend Gold Path Solar. Jake and Karim made the entire transition seamless, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.
4.80 46 Reviews
DaveB, over 1 month
20 REC 450 Watt Panels (~9KW) in Dec 2025 Working with ColdStream to get my Solar project planned, permitted, installed and online was a very professional experience. Greg, Evan and the entire team kept me in the loop on all steps from HOA approval to County Approval to Interconnect and Net Metering with AES. We had a few items outside of anyone’s controls (Panels I wanted were caught up in Supply side issues). The ColdStream team came up with work arounds so we could hit the end of December Operational timeline to ensure I received the tax incentives before they expired. System was installed and online by the 10th and AES and the County gave final approvals by the 15th. The ColdStream Team had to deal with a lot of questions from me (I am an Engineer and Electrician) and they were patience and provided knowledgeable and full answers to all questions. This was one of the best home update projects in years and that is all to the team from ColdStream. I could not have asked for a better outcome. I fully recommend them to anyone looking to add Solar to their home or Business. DaveB
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DaveB, over 1 month
20 REC 450 Watt Panels (~9KW) in Dec 2025 Working with ColdStream to get my Solar project planned, permitted, installed and online was a very professional experience. Greg, Evan and the entire team kept me in the loop on all steps from HOA approval to County Approval to Interconnect and Net Metering with AES. We had a few items outside of anyone’s controls (Panels I wanted were caught up in Supply side issues). The ColdStream team came up with work arounds so we could hit the end of December Operational timeline to ensure I received the tax incentives before they expired. System was installed and online by the 10th and AES and the County gave final approvals by the 15th. The ColdStream Team had to deal with a lot of questions from me (I am an Engineer and Electrician) and they were patience and provided knowledgeable and full answers to all questions. This was one of the best home update projects in years and that is all to the team from ColdStream. I could not have asked for a better outcome. I fully recommend them to anyone looking to add Solar to their home or Business. DaveB
4.53 56 Reviews
James B, over 1 month
We had a 30 panel system installed by Third Sun. They did a good job and the system has worked well. Last year one of the panels went bad and we contacted them about the warranty. The panels are from LG. . We were told when we contracted with Third Sun that if there was a warranty issue, we could go through them. When I reminded them of this they said they would look into it only to send an email a few days later saying they could not get in touch with LG. They basically said that it was our responsibility to contact LG but would not even supply any information about how to do that. The next issue has come up recently. When we purchased the panels we specifically asked what the cost would be for them to remove and replace the panels if we had to have the roof replaced. They told us that is would cost around $4,000. We are now having that done, so I contacted them and the price they now give me for removing and replacing the panels is over $19,000. Even given inflation this is outrageous. After the government tax rebates that is only a few thousand less than the original cost of the whole project and I suspect that we could put an entirely new system in for not much more than that. The message is beware of this new incarnation of Third Sun. Whatever integrity the original company had is apparently gone, so do not expect any help or service from them after installation. We are not only committed to solar but also in another area of the solar business, so we are well informed about costs. Kokosing is not a company with which we would advise doing business.
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James B, over 1 month
We had a 30 panel system installed by Third Sun. They did a good job and the system has worked well. Last year one of the panels went bad and we contacted them about the warranty. The panels are from LG. . We were told when we contracted with Third Sun that if there was a warranty issue, we could go through them. When I reminded them of this they said they would look into it only to send an email a few days later saying they could not get in touch with LG. They basically said that it was our responsibility to contact LG but would not even supply any information about how to do that. The next issue has come up recently. When we purchased the panels we specifically asked what the cost would be for them to remove and replace the panels if we had to have the roof replaced. They told us that is would cost around $4,000. We are now having that done, so I contacted them and the price they now give me for removing and replacing the panels is over $19,000. Even given inflation this is outrageous. After the government tax rebates that is only a few thousand less than the original cost of the whole project and I suspect that we could put an entirely new system in for not much more than that. The message is beware of this new incarnation of Third Sun. Whatever integrity the original company had is apparently gone, so do not expect any help or service from them after installation. We are not only committed to solar but also in another area of the solar business, so we are well informed about costs. Kokosing is not a company with which we would advise doing business.
4.53 14 Reviews
Cabot PA, over 1 month
We highly recommend Green Rack Solar. We spoke with several solar panel companies and received 3 quotes. We followed up with questions and research to verify the information each company provided. Green Rack has years of experience in the business and really understands the technology. Green Rack guided us through the process of selecting the combination of products to build the perfectly sized system for our budget and specific situation. The installation included multiple steps, which they handled with very little required from us. These steps included getting permits, installation, and finally a monitoring system so we know it's performing as it should. Our cash investment will be repaid in 8.5 years with an almost zero electric bill. We couldn't be happier with the results, both financially and aesthetically, and suggest you talk to Green Rack.
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Cabot PA, over 1 month
We highly recommend Green Rack Solar. We spoke with several solar panel companies and received 3 quotes. We followed up with questions and research to verify the information each company provided. Green Rack has years of experience in the business and really understands the technology. Green Rack guided us through the process of selecting the combination of products to build the perfectly sized system for our budget and specific situation. The installation included multiple steps, which they handled with very little required from us. These steps included getting permits, installation, and finally a monitoring system so we know it's performing as it should. Our cash investment will be repaid in 8.5 years with an almost zero electric bill. We couldn't be happier with the results, both financially and aesthetically, and suggest you talk to Green Rack.
4.50 13 Reviews
Dave L, over 1 month
TGE did a great job installing my solar collector. They had good pricing and excellent service. Everything went smoothly, from quoting to installation and inspection. They were great at coordinating and communicating all the details of the process. Everyone I worked with did a really good job and were very professional. I highly recommend TGE if you are considering solar power.
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Dave L, over 1 month
TGE did a great job installing my solar collector. They had good pricing and excellent service. Everything went smoothly, from quoting to installation and inspection. They were great at coordinating and communicating all the details of the process. Everyone I worked with did a really good job and were very professional. I highly recommend TGE if you are considering solar power.
4.49 55 Reviews
Solar45224, over 1 month
I had a 19 panel system installed last week. I’m overall very satisfied with SIF on pricing, quality of equipment, and quality of install. The only area that I wish was a little better is their communication. During my 3 month install process, I called the office 3 times. I never had anyone answer the phone when I called, but they did call me or text me back within 24 hours. Ultimately, no major issue, but hope they improve this going forward. If/when I move, I would be happy to have SIF install a system on my next home.
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Solar45224, over 1 month
I had a 19 panel system installed last week. I’m overall very satisfied with SIF on pricing, quality of equipment, and quality of install. The only area that I wish was a little better is their communication. During my 3 month install process, I called the office 3 times. I never had anyone answer the phone when I called, but they did call me or text me back within 24 hours. Ultimately, no major issue, but hope they improve this going forward. If/when I move, I would be happy to have SIF install a system on my next home.
4.46 14 Reviews
Anonymous, over 1 month
We hired Bold Alternatives to do a 3KW array on our house (no storage). They pulled all permits and passed inspection the first time. The array looks beautiful. They worked with a roofer who seems to have done a good job with our cedar shingle roof. Overall a highly recommended company.
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Anonymous, over 1 month
We hired Bold Alternatives to do a 3KW array on our house (no storage). They pulled all permits and passed inspection the first time. The array looks beautiful. They worked with a roofer who seems to have done a good job with our cedar shingle roof. Overall a highly recommended company.
4.38 18 Reviews
ARP - The best Solar system out , over 1 month
I am not sure where to start. I saw a huge difference in the various installers out there. ARP-Solar is EXCELLENT. I looked seriously at four different providers and Gary Easton at ARP-Solar was by far the best; best design, most knowledgeable about the products in the industry and the industry in general, fastest response time to questions, best references, and yes, the best price. His installation team was very pleasant to work with and top notch. They even re-stacked my fire wood next to where they installed one of the disconnect boxes. I can’t wait to tell everyone in my network about them. The only issues I really had all were dealing with Duke Energy and getting the bi-directional meter in. We had issues with them reading it correctly and entering the data correctly. It should be fixed now – my last Duke energy bill was $5.36 for November. I still need to find a way to keep the snow and ice off the panels and to clear out these clouds! I can’t wait to see my production numbers this coming spring and summer!
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ARP - The best Solar system out , over 1 month
I am not sure where to start. I saw a huge difference in the various installers out there. ARP-Solar is EXCELLENT. I looked seriously at four different providers and Gary Easton at ARP-Solar was by far the best; best design, most knowledgeable about the products in the industry and the industry in general, fastest response time to questions, best references, and yes, the best price. His installation team was very pleasant to work with and top notch. They even re-stacked my fire wood next to where they installed one of the disconnect boxes. I can’t wait to tell everyone in my network about them. The only issues I really had all were dealing with Duke Energy and getting the bi-directional meter in. We had issues with them reading it correctly and entering the data correctly. It should be fixed now – my last Duke energy bill was $5.36 for November. I still need to find a way to keep the snow and ice off the panels and to clear out these clouds! I can’t wait to see my production numbers this coming spring and summer!
4.36 42 Reviews
Grant, over 1 month
Never can get ahold of them. Hardware keeps failing multiple times a year. They were sold to IGS a few years ago and since then it’s gone downhill.
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Grant, over 1 month
Never can get ahold of them. Hardware keeps failing multiple times a year. They were sold to IGS a few years ago and since then it’s gone downhill.