Best 5 Solar Companies in Fairfield, OH

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Fairfield

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar energy system. Here are some key items to remember while shopping for a solar provider.

Licensing and Training

Ohio may require a solar installer to hold a state contractors' license, but only for commercial work. For residential work, cities can establish their own licensing or regulatory requirements. Solar providers can also earn certificates from trade groups and standards organizations. The most recognized 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 Fairfield

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

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 efficiency. Not all solar contractors provide these additional features, so look for a company that sells them if it's crucial for you.

You can plan to spend about $17,050 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Fairfield. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Fairfield solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Fairfield

Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments and solar leases. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Much like a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, like an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each installer you're considering about the financing options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the most suitable option for your pocketbook.

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

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal tax credit for solar panels on your new solar panels, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own financing programs, rebates, and incentives that could save you more money.