Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Empire, Ohio. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, veteran-owned Ohio-based company with over two decades of experience. They are a full-service provider handling everything from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing. They are known for their expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid/battery backup systems.
A well-established regional solar installer with a strong presence in Ohio. YellowLite is recognized for its customer-centric approach, robust financing options, and deep knowledge of state and federal incentives. They offer a full suite of services from energy assessment to post-installation monitoring and maintenance.
A reliable, locally-focused contractor serving Eastern Ohio and the West Virginia panhandle. They specialize in residential installations and pride themselves on personalized service and quality craftsmanship. They are a good option for homeowners seeking a more localized company with direct access to the team managing their project.
** The home solar market in and around Empire, Ohio, is characteristic of a rural-to-exurban area. While the local market within the village itself is small, it is served by a competitive regional landscape from established companies in Athens, Cleveland, and Steubenville. The average quality of providers is high, as the companies that operate successfully in this region tend to be well-established and certified. Competition is moderate, which is beneficial for consumers as it encourages competitive pricing and good customer service. Homeowners in Empire have a solid selection of providers ranging from larger, multi-state operators like YellowLite to Ohio-born pioneers like Third Sun Solar and smaller local specialists like A1 Solar Power. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this region is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit and any local incentives. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$15,000 to $30,000** for an average-sized system (6kW-10kW). The knowledge of local utility net metering policies (e.g., from Ohio Edison) and state-specific incentives is a key differentiator among the top-tier providers identified.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Empire regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Empire, Ohio.
For a typical Empire home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, with the final price depending on your energy usage and roof specifics. Crucially, Ohio homeowners benefit from the 30% federal tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. While there is no specific Empire or Jefferson County solar rebate, you are eligible for Ohio's sales tax exemption on solar equipment, and you can sell renewable energy credits (SRECs) to generate long-term income.
Empire experiences all four seasons, with sunny summers and cloudier winters. Solar panels are highly efficient in cold, clear weather and will produce ample energy year-round, though output is naturally highest from spring through fall. Snow can temporarily reduce production, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and their dark surfaces help melt light accumulations quickly, minimizing long-term impact on your annual energy savings.
Yes, you will need a building permit from the Village of Empire or Jefferson County, a process your chosen solar provider will typically manage for you. Ohio law mandates net metering, meaning your electric utility (like Ohio Edison or AEP Ohio) must credit you for excess power your system sends to the grid. These credits offset your usage at night or on cloudy days, ensuring you get full value for your solar generation throughout the year.
Prioritize local or regional installers with proven experience in Jefferson County, as they will be most familiar with Empire's specific permitting and interconnection processes. Always verify they are properly licensed and insured in Ohio, and request references from recent local installations. A reputable provider will conduct a thorough site assessment of your roof's condition and sun exposure before providing a detailed, customized proposal.
It is highly recommended to address any needed roof repairs or replacement before solar installation, as removing and reinstalling panels for future roof work is costly. For a home in Empire with a sound roof, the physical installation typically takes 1 to 3 days. The entire process—from consultation and design to permitting, installation, and final utility interconnection—usually takes between 2 to 4 months, with much of that time spent on administrative steps.