Solar Panel Savings in Cleveland, OH
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Cleveland, Ohio. Based on 4 peak sun hours/day and 14.4¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4
Peak Sun Hours/Day
14.4¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
11.3 yr
Payback Period
$14k
25-Year Savings
Cleveland Solar Overview
Calculate Your Cleveland Solar Savings
Cleveland average: $104/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$34,465
Monthly Savings
$84
Federal Tax Credit
$4,878
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cleveland | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,260 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$4,878 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,382 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.71/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Cleveland
Sun Hours vs National Average
Cleveland gets 11% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.
Climate Advantages
- 203 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 53.7°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,644 sq ft — enough for a 91-panel system
Cleveland Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,260 system, that's a $4,878 credit. Valid through 2032.
Ohio State Incentives
Ohio SRECs at $15-$25/MWh; net metering at full retail.
Net Metering — Cleveland Public Power / FirstEnergy
Cleveland Public Power / FirstEnergy offers net metering in Cleveland. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Cleveland
2.9
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
48
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.7
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 7,008 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland, Ohio receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 14.4¢ per kWh from Cleveland Public Power / FirstEnergy, near the national average, solar provides competitive returns on investment.
A typical 6kW solar system in Cleveland produces approximately 7,008 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,009 annually. The system pays for itself in about 11.3 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 14+ years of the system's warranty life.
Cleveland has a solar penetration rate of 3.2% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 97 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Ohio
Akron, OH
Canton, OH
Cincinnati, OH
Columbus, OH
Dayton, OH
Toledo, OH
Youngstown, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Cleveland, OH?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Cleveland is approximately $16,260 before incentives ($2.71/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,382. Ohio SRECs at $15-$25/MWh; net metering at full retail.
How many peak sun hours does Cleveland get?
Cleveland, OH receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day and approximately 203 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in Cleveland?
The average solar payback period in Cleveland is approximately 11.3 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $13,843.
Does Cleveland have net metering?
Yes, Cleveland has access to net metering through Cleveland Public Power / FirstEnergy. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Cleveland, OH?
Yes, solar is a solid investment in Cleveland. While the 11.3-year payback is moderate, you'll still save $13,843 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.