The 5 best solar installers in Ohio
YellowLite Local
Why listed: Cleveland-based residential solar installer with strong statewide OH coverage.
Third Sun Solar Local
Why listed: Long-running employee-owned OH residential and commercial installer.
Solar Energy Solutions Local
Why listed: Cincinnati-based regional residential and commercial installer.
Sunrun National
Why listed: Largest U.S. residential solar provider. Lease/PPA-focused.
Tesla Energy National
Why listed: Tesla solar and Powerwall integration.
Ohio solar economics in 2026
| Metric | Ohio average |
|---|---|
| Average residential rate | $0.13–$0.16 / kWh |
| Typical 8 kW system cost (cash) | $22,000–$28,000 before incentives |
| Average $/W | $2.75–3.50 |
| Average annual production (kWh per kW) | ~1,200–1,350 kWh/kW/year |
| Net metering structure | Net metering at retail (varies by utility) |
| Average cash payback | 11–14 years |
For full state-by-state cost comparison see solar cost by state.
Ohio incentives and rebates
- Strong SREC market: Ohio SRECs are tradable and produce ongoing revenue.
- Property tax exemption: Added home value from solar exempt from property tax (qualified energy projects).
- Federal commercial ITC for lease/PPA financing.
- Federal commercial ITC: Lease and PPA structures benefit from the commercial ITC pass-through. See federal tax credit guide.
What to verify before signing in Ohio
- Contractor license: Verify with your state contractor licensing authority before signing.
- NABCEP certification: Most reputable installers carry NABCEP-certified installers on staff. Ask which crew member holds the certification.
- Insurance: General liability + workers comp + roofer's insurance separate from electrical insurance.
- References from your county: Permitting and inspection requirements vary. Ask for 2–3 references from your specific county.
- Get at least three bids: Solar bids vary by 20–35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Got bids from Ohio installers? Compare them properly.
Upload up to four solar proposals from any Ohio installer. The analyzer compares $/W, production estimates, equipment, and financing structure — and tells you which one to sign.
Analyze My Bids →Frequently asked questions about Ohio solar
Does solar make sense in Ohio?
Yes for most homeowners with a $150+ monthly electric bill, an unshaded roof, and 8+ years of expected ownership. Ohio's specific economics are summarized in the table above.
How much does a typical Ohio solar install cost in 2026?
$22,000–$28,000 for an 8 kW system before incentives. Effective net cost depends on your state and utility incentives.
Should I get more than three bids?
Yes — three is a minimum. Four or five is better. Solar bids vary by 20–35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Are there other reputable Ohio solar installers besides these?
Many. The list above represents installers with strong public profiles in Ohio; reputable installers exist beyond it. Get bids from a mix and compare them objectively rather than relying on any one list.