What’s the ROI on Residential Solar in Columbus?

If you’re a homeowner in Columbus wondering if solar panels are worth it, the answer is yes, and here’s why.

Understanding ROI: Solar in Real Numbers

Your return on investment (ROI) from solar comes down to three factors:

• Your utility bill savings

• Available incentives and rebates

• Upfront cost of the system

In Columbus, homeowners typically see an ROI of 7–11% annually, with most systems paying for themselves in 8–12 years. After that, it’s just savings.

What Can You Expect to Save?

The average Ohio household uses about 875 kWh per month. A properly sized solar system from BC Solar can offset nearly 100% of that, potentially saving you $1,200 to $1,500 or more per year on electricity.

Multiply that by 25 years (the standard panel warranty), and you're looking at $30,000–$40,000 in lifetime savings.

And that’s not including rising utility rates, which increase your ROI over time.

Don’t Forget the Incentives

Ohio homeowners currently benefit from:

• Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC): 30% of system cost

• Net Metering: Earn credits for excess power you send to the grid

• Property tax exemption: You won’t be taxed on the increase in home value

• Local utility rebates (occasionally available)

These incentives significantly shorten your payback period and boost your long-term returns.

Real Returns, Real Stories

One BC Solar customer in Clintonville installed a system for about $21,000 after incentives. Their estimated energy savings: $1,700/year. That’s an 8.1% ROI — and their system will be paid off in under 10 years.

Another customer in Westerville added solar with battery backup. While the payback was closer to 12 years, they now enjoy peace of mind knowing their fridge, lights, and essential systems will keep running during outages.

How BC Solar Maximizes Your ROI

We focus on:

• Right-sizing your system to your energy use and roof layout

• Transparent pricing — no gimmicks or bundled “savings”

• Battery-first designs for energy independence and added value

• High-efficiency panels and inverters to maximize production

Owner Brian Zaayer personally oversees every system design. That means no shortcuts — just long-term performance you can trust.

FAQ: Residential Solar ROI in Columbus

How long does it take to break even on solar in Columbus?
Most homeowners break even in 8–12 years depending on system size, usage, and incentives.

Do solar panels increase home value in Columbus?
Yes. Studies show solar increases home value by 3–4% on average, and homes often sell faster.

What if I move before my system pays off?
Solar increases home resale value and many buyers see it as a benefit. You can also transfer your warranty to the new owner.

Can I finance solar in a way that keeps it cash-flow positive?
Yes. Many BC Solar customers choose financing where the monthly loan payment is equal to or less than their previous electric bill.

Thinking about solar? Let's run the numbers together — no pressure, just honest insights.

Call BC Solar at (614) 442-9700 or visit bc.solar to get started.