Columbus · OH
Solar Companies in
Columbus, OH
Columbus homeowners pay $13,800–$20,500 for a typical 8 kW solar system in 2026. The federal 30% residential tax credit expired December 31, 2025; Ohio's property tax and sales tax exemptions remain active. At AEP Ohio / Columbus Southern Power's rate of $0.138/kWh, most systems pay back in 12–17 years.
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4.2 hrs/day
Peak Sun Hours
$1,150/yr
Avg. Annual Savings
12–17 yrs
Payback Period
$13,800–$20,500
Avg. System Cost
2026 update: The 30% federal residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025. Homeowners purchasing systems in 2026 cannot claim it. Solar leases and PPAs are the exception — the installer can still claim commercial credits and pass savings through in the monthly rate. Full 2026 ITC guide →
About Solar in Columbus
Why Columbus Homeowners Are Going Solar in 2026
AEP Ohio rates have risen steadily. Columbus's 4.2 peak sun hours per day is moderate for the Midwest — systems are sized slightly larger than Sun Belt markets to compensate. Ohio's competitive installer market keeps pricing reasonable.
Key solar facts for Columbus
- 4.2 peak sun hours per day
- AEP Ohio / Columbus Southern Power average rate: $0.138/kWh
- Average monthly bill: $128
- Popular system size: 8 kW
- Permit timeline: Columbus solar permits typically take 2–4 weeks through the city. Franklin County jurisdictions outside Columbus may be faster. HOA approval (if applicable) can add 2–6 weeks.
Active Incentives
Columbus Solar Incentives in 2026
Ohio Net Metering
Net MeteringAEP Ohio credits excess solar generation at the retail rate under Ohio net metering law. Residential systems up to 20 kW qualify. Annual true-up: unused credits roll forward but do not pay out as cash.
Value: Retail rate credit
Ohio Sales Tax Exemption
Sales TaxResidential solar equipment is exempt from Ohio's 5.75% state sales tax, saving $795–$1,180 on a typical installation.
Value: 5.75% sales tax savings
Ohio Property Tax Exemption
Property TaxSolar installations are exempt from Ohio property tax assessments under the Homestead Exemption provisions. Adding panels does not increase your annual property tax bill.
Value: 100% exemption on added value
Net Metering in Columbus
AEP Ohio credits excess solar at the retail rate. Credits roll forward monthly; unused annual credits do not pay out as cash. Systems must be 20 kW or smaller to qualify.
Solar Leases & PPAs in Columbus
Solar leases and PPAs are available in Columbus through national installers. Ohio's $0-down options are common, with monthly rates typically 10–15% below current AEP bills.
How much does solar cost in Columbus?
Detailed cost breakdown, financing options, and payback analysis for Columbus homeowners.
Want national solar cost data? How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in 2026? →
Common Questions
Columbus Solar FAQ
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Columbus Solar at a Glance
Solar Installers Serving Columbus and Surrounding Areas
Our network of pre-vetted solar installers serves Columbus and these nearby communities:
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