Best 5 Solar Companies in Clear Creek, OH

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Clear Creek

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar array. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.

Licensing and Training

Ohio may require a solar company to hold a state contractors' license, but only for commercial work. For home solar panel installations, cities can establish their own licensing or regulatory requirements. Solar providers can also obtain certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. The most respected ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Clear Creek

Your photovoltaic panels' model will influence how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.

You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors provide these optional components, so look for a provider that sells them if it's important for you.

If you're a resident of Clear Creek and want a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $17,050 for parts and installation. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Clear Creek

There are numerous ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will minimize your overhead. A few of the most common options include cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, and leases. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car loan or mortgage, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in certain circumstances. Ask each company you're considering about the payment options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the best option for your budget.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Clear Creek.

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new residential solar equipment purchased through 2032. Extra incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.