Best 5 Solar Companies in Lima, OH

Lima homeowners are increasingly using solar panels to generate energy and heat their water. If you're contemplating going solar, you might be anxious about expensive upfront costs. By partnering with a knowledgeable installer, you'll have both the financial and operational support you need for a successful transition. In this article, we'll show you Lima's best solar providers and offer tips for your company choice, so you can find the ideal one for your home.

Ranking Methodology

Our team has carefully researched dozens of solar contractors near Lima, keeping in mind the following criteria:

• Service offerings and warranties: Solar providers should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each provider responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
• Professional licenses and credentials: Each contractor on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and keeps current with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Lima community for over 15 years.
• Educational approach and support: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should utilize their years of experience address your questions on how to care for your system and improve its performance.
• Feedback and reviews from customers: Most Lima solar companies have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio reflects a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
• Panel quality and brand offerings: The top solar companies keep up with new technology, providing equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy has numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced energy costs: Sourcing some or all of your own energy will cut power costs long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that make it possible for you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
• Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with energy storage systems operate through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the electrical grid for your safety and well-being.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Utilizing solar is a surefire way to minimize your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Lima Homeowners?

Ohio's public agencies and power companies offer multiple solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Lima

The cost and performance of solar panels often depend on the provider that mounted them. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

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 earn certificates from standards organizations and trade groups. The most recognized ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Lima

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power 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.

Additional components, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies include these add-ons, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's essential for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $17,050 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Lima. This table shows more specific prices for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Lima

Choosing the right financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, leases, cash payments, and loans. We advise making a cash payment or securing a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Look for companies that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your pocket.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy