Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Birmingham, Ohio. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Ecohouse Solar is a leading regional provider based in Sandusky, OH, known for its comprehensive, customer-focused approach. They handle the entire process from initial consultation and system design to installation, financing, and maintenance. Their strength lies in customizing systems to maximize energy savings and their deep knowledge of Ohio-specific incentives.
With a strong presence in North Central Ohio, Ohio Solar Specialists prides itself on high-quality craftsmanship and using top-tier equipment. They are a SunPower Premier Dealer, offering some of the most efficient panels on the market. They are particularly skilled in both grid-tied and hybrid systems with battery backup.
As one of Ohio's oldest and most established solar companies, Third Sun Solar brings extensive experience to the table. They serve a wide geographic area, including Northern Ohio, and are well-versed in complex installations. They offer a full suite of services, including energy efficiency assessments to ensure holistic home energy solutions.
** The home solar market in and around Birmingham, Ohio, is characteristic of a growing rural and suburban Ohio market. The competition is moderate but features several high-quality, established regional installers rather than a saturation of national companies. These local experts are crucial as they understand the specific climate considerations, local permitting processes, and net metering policies of utilities like Firelands Electric Cooperative or Ohio Edison that serve the area. The average quality of service is high, as the companies that have endured are those with proven track records and strong customer satisfaction. Typical pricing for a residential system in Ohio ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. For an average-sized 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$20,000 to $28,000**. The knowledge of state-specific incentives, like the potential for SREC (Solar Renewable Energy Credit) income, is a key differentiator among the top providers. Homeowners in Birmingham are well-positioned to benefit from the expertise of these reputable regional companies.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Birmingham regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Birmingham, Ohio.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in the Birmingham area, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, Ohio homeowners benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. While there is no statewide solar rebate, some local Ohio electric cooperatives or providers may offer additional incentives, so it's important to ask installers about any Birmingham-specific programs.
Solar panels are effective in cold, sunny weather and Ohio receives sufficient sunlight for a strong return on investment. Production peaks in the sunny spring and summer months, which helps offset higher usage from air conditioning. While winter production is lower due to shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels are efficient at low temperatures and snow usually melts quickly off the slick surface, minimizing long-term impact.
Installation requires a building permit from the Village of Birmingham and likely an electrical permit from Erie County. Your chosen installer should handle this process. Importantly, you must comply with the interconnection rules of your local utility (such as Firelands Electric Cooperative or Ohio Edison) to connect your system to the grid safely and be eligible for net metering, which credits you for excess power sent back.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Erie County and Northern Ohio, as they will understand specific permitting, utility requirements, and roof considerations for our region. Ensure they are properly licensed, insured, and offer strong warranties. Always get multiple detailed quotes, check local references, and verify they are certified by major panel manufacturers (like SunPower, REC, or Qcells).
Yes, net metering is mandated for investor-owned utilities and most electric cooperatives in Ohio. With net metering, your solar system's excess energy is sent to the grid, and your meter runs backward, giving you a credit on your bill. This credit offsets the power you draw from the grid at night or on cloudy days. You should confirm the specific net metering policy and any monthly service charges with your local utility provider.