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Best Solar Companies in Dayton, OH

We compared 7 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Blue Raven Solar
      4.7(263)
    • Customer service
      ION Solar
      4.4(114)
    • Community solar
      CleanChoice Energy
      4.7(58)

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      Best Solar Companies in Dayton, OH

      Our top solar company picks for Dayton

      1. Best overall: Blue Raven Solar
      2. Great customer service: ION Solar
      3. Our pick for community solar: CleanChoice Energy

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies in Dayton on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranty terms and other factors. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how ConsumerAffairs makes solar company recommendations.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,571,386 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies in Dayton

      Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Daytonians’ energy needs.

      Blue Raven Solar

      4.7
      263 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan, lease, PPA
      Year founded
      2014
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation

      Blue Raven Solar stands out for its exceptional service, equipment and value. We've talked to more than 200 verified customers across the country over a recent two-year period — 94% were satisfied with their installation and setup, and 92% were satisfied with the technology.

      • “I have an annoying HOA, I know it's hard to believe, but the team at Blue Raven stayed on them for two months requesting approval. They picked up their dragging feet and threw them through the approval window one board member at a time. Thanks for the effort! I highly recommend them and have done so already to many friends and family.” — Ryan in Dayton

      Blue Raven Solar gets positive feedback from most customers. However, we have heard some complaints about installation issues, including delays in turning on the system, from reviewers.

      Blue Raven installs top-tier panels, storage batteries and microinverters to maximize energy production. It provides free consultations and custom solar panel systems tailored to your home's energy consumption and roof specifications.

      • Services: The company handles the entire installation process, from obtaining permits to connecting your system to the grid. Monitoring to track your system's performance and maintenance or repair services are available as needed.
      • Warranty information: All systems have a 25-year panel guarantee and a two-year production guarantee. Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer.
      • Payment options: You can pay upfront and get immediate ownership of the solar panel system. There’s also a unique in-house payment option with no upfront costs, BluePower Plus+, which combines the best aspects of a solar lease with the flexibility of system ownership.

      Pros

      • Efficient installation process
      • Zero-down financing
      • Production guarantee
      • Excellent customer service

      Cons

      • Occasional installation delays
      • Some complaints about miscommunication
      Our pick for customer service

      ION Solar

      4.4
      114 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      21.9%
      Panel warranty
      30 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2013

      ION Solar offers multiple solar options suitable for different needs and budgets. From helpful sales reps to knowledgeable installers, the company really stands out for its strong customer service. We suggest getting a personalized quote to see if ION Solar is right for you.

      • “ION Solar's enrollment process was easy. A lot of it was electronic. I haven't had any issues with their customer support at all. Everybody's been straightforward and they stuck to their timelines. Installation was really quick. They were in and out in a day. There were a couple of appointments where they did some miscellaneous wiring and stuff, but the bulk of the work was done in a day. I've been interested in solar for a while to get our electricity bill down. So far, going with ION was worth it. I track what we produce through the Enphase Enlighten app. It is extremely easy.” — Colby in Dayton

      Reviewers in other states sometimes mention communication issues or installation delays. Such complaints are common in the industry. Solar installations are complicated projects — there’s always a chance that projected timelines change due to weather, supply chain issues and other factors. We also think ION Solar could be a little more transparent about its financing options and additional services provided.

      ION Solar’s NABCEP-certified installers use Silfab solar panels and Enphase microinverters. Most projects are completed in 60 to 90 days.

      • Services: Reps coordinate solar system designs and installations as well as roofing services if needed. Energy production monitoring and ongoing system maintenance are available after installation.
      • Warranty information: All work performed during the installation is covered for 10 years. Panels are guaranteed to produce at least 85% capacity for 30 years. Enphase microinverters come with a 25-year warranty.
      • Payment options: You can purchase or finance the system through a solar loan. Rates and terms vary.

      Pros

      • No upfront payment required
      • 24/7 monitoring
      • Good customer service
      • Solid warranty

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Occasional installation delays
      Our pick for community solar

      CleanChoice Energy

      4.7
      58 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Panel warranty
      N/A
      Payment options
      Varies
      Year founded
      2012

      CleanChoice Energy isn't a solar panel installer, but the company works with American Electric Power Ohio to help residents switch to solar power. It purchases renewable energy on your behalf in the form of grid power and renewable energy certifications, which makes it a good option for those who rent or otherwise can't install a solar panel system.

      • “I was looking up a good price on the internet and found CleanChoice Energy. I've been with them for a couple of years now and have had a positive experience. They sent me a card to renew and I gave them a call and renewed. Customer service was very good. I'm one for the environment and this is just a step that we can take to save some of our environment. As long as they give me a good deal, I'll be with them forever.” — Terry in Dayton
      • “The enrollment experience was real simple. I got something in the mail, I signed it, and I sent it back. There was no pressure and no long process. Hopefully, it's clean energy like they say.” — Ralph in Dayton

      CleanChoice generally buys the cheapest clean energy available in your area, but you should be aware that energy prices can still fluctuate. While a few negative reviews mention issues with promotional rates, the majority of customers are satisfied with their experience.

      CleanChoice Energy acts as an alternative energy supplier. Instead of getting your electricity from the default utility company in your area, it can provide electricity sourced from wind and solar power that is generated in the region. Your local utility still handles the poles, wires and infrastructure that brings power into your home.

      It has monthly, quarterly and annual memberships. There are no cancellation or early termination fees for residential customers, so you can stop at any time without penalty.

      Pros

      • 100% clean energy from local sources
      • Variable and fixed payment plans
      • No termination fees
      • Referral bonuses

      Cons

      • Services vary by location
      • Prices are dependent on market

      How we chose the best solar companies in Dayton

      We took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the humid continental climate, to choose the best solar companies in Dayton, Ohio, based on the following key features and respective weightings:

      • Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      • Warranty terms: 20%
      • Equipment selection: 20%
      • Financing and payment options: 20%

      » MORE: Full methodology

      Dayton solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to dozens of Ohioans who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Dayton residents should look out for when choosing a solar panel installation company. We’ll also touch on overall costs and ways to save with government incentives.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $29,018 in Dayton.

      Jump to insight

      Solar loans, leases and other programs make it easy to go solar with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Solar scammers in Dayton may falsely claim to be affiliated with a Montogomery County or Ohio government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Dayton

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $9,310 to $26,600 in Ohio. Prices in Dayton are comparable, ranging from $9,275 to $26,500.

      This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing, like at night or during outages. It’s worth considering if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Dayton household needs a system with a capacity of 10.95 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Dayton

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease. Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment.

      • Solar loans work like any other type of loan. They have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright.
      • Solar leases are a good option if you have limited savings and don’t want to take on debt. A potential downside to leasing is that you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      Is solar worth it in Dayton?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Ohio if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. With moderately high electricity prices, the long-term savings can be substantial. On average, Dayton homeowners with solar panels can avoid $52,568 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 11.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      Another thing worth considering: Dayton experiences seasonal cloudiness, so solar production varies and may be lower in winter. We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator.

      Potential roof problems

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Dayton

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Ohio have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some hiring tips.

      • Check certifications: You can verify your contractor's electrical license through the Ohio Department of Commerce. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
      • Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Solar incentives in Dayton

      Ohio doesn’t have as many state-wide solar incentives, though some utilities in the Dayton area offer rebates. The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best incentive for most homeowners. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. You can combine the ITC with local solar incentives in Ohio to maximize savings.

      Dayton solar FAQ

      How does the federal solar tax credit work?

      The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000. Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year. However, it’s possible to get a refund check if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      Do I need any permits to install solar panels in Dayton?

      Local permits are generally required for most residential solar panel installations in Dayton, which you can apply for online.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      No, Homeowners Associations (HOAs) in Ohio cannot prohibit solar panels, but they can place some restrictions on your system’s size, location and installation method.

      » GREENEST STATES: Ohio ranked 29th in 2024

      How does net metering work in Dayton?

      Net metering lets you send excess energy back to the grid for credit. In Dayton, AES Ohio installs a net meter that records the electricity delivered to your home and the surplus energy you return to the grid. Your monthly bill reflects the net difference between these amounts. If you generate more energy than you consume in a billing period, the excess is typically credited to your account at the standard offer rate.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Ohio ranked 10th in 2024

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The key difference is in materials and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels use pure, single silicon crystals, while polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments, resulting in different efficiency levels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Dayton?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Dayton. You can lease or enter a power purchase agreement with minimal upfront costs, but there is usually an ongoing monthly fee. In general, beware of deals that sound too good to be true.

      How does a power purchase agreement work?

      A third party installs and maintains solar panels on your property. You buy the power generated by the panels on a per kilowatt-hour (kWh) basis. It’s typically a fixed price, with a cheaper cents/kWh rate than traditional utilities have for the same amount of electricity.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Dayton

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Dayton, Ohio. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Dayton customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 20%

      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      ConsumerAffairs Research Team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Blue Raven Solar
      2. ION Solar
      3. CleanChoice Energy

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide Sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. EnergySage, "“The cost of solar panels in Dayton, OH." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        2. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Ohio Solar." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        3. DSIRE, "Ohio Programs." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        4. EnergySage, "“The cost of solar panels in Ohio." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Federal Trade Commission, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.

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