Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Kent, Ohio. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading Northeast Ohio-based company specializing in comprehensive residential solar and battery storage solutions. They are highly regarded for their customer-centric approach, in-house installation teams, and deep expertise in local incentive programs and net metering.
A national solar provider with a strong local presence in Ohio. Zenernet distinguishes itself with a technology-focused approach, offering robust online monitoring and custom design. They provide a full suite of services from consultation to financing and maintenance.
A local contractor dedicated to serving Ohio residents and businesses. They pride themselves on personalized service and deep knowledge of the specific climatic and regulatory environment in Ohio. They offer a wide range of services, including maintenance and repair.
** The home solar market in Kent, Ohio, is moderately competitive and served by a mix of strong regional installers and national companies. The average quality of providers is high, with several companies holding top-tier certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners), which is a key indicator of expertise and professionalism. The competition level is healthy, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this region, before incentives, generally ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000**, heavily dependent on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the system cost from their federal taxes, is a significant driver of adoption. Ohio's net metering policies also provide a favorable economic environment, allowing homeowners to receive credit for excess energy their systems produce. Overall, Kent residents have access to reputable, experienced solar providers capable of delivering high-quality system design, installation, and long-term maintenance.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Kent regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Kent, Ohio.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Kent, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, and Ohio has no state sales tax on solar installations. Additionally, you may be eligible for net metering through The Illuminating Company (CEI), which credits you for excess power sent back to the grid, significantly improving payback.
Kent experiences all four seasons, with sunny summers and cloudier winters. While production is highest from spring through fall, modern panels are efficient even on cloudy days and in cold weather. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage shedding, and their dark surface helps melt snow relatively quickly, minimizing long-term impact on annual energy harvest.
Installing solar in Kent requires a building and electrical permit from the City of Kent's Building Department. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process. They must also coordinate with The Illuminating Company (CEI) for interconnection approval to connect your system to the grid. There are no restrictive homeowners association (HOA) solar bans in Ohio, as state law protects your right to install solar.
Look for Ohio-licensed, insured, and bonded installers with strong local experience. Check reviews on trusted sites and ask for references from recent installations in Portage County. A reputable provider will perform a detailed site assessment, explain Kent-specific factors like shading from mature trees, and provide a clear production estimate and warranty without using high-pressure sales tactics.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a battery backup. For storm resilience, panels are rated to withstand Ohio's hail and high winds (typically up to 140 mph). A quality installation includes proper racking and flashing to protect your roof. Investing in a battery storage system can provide critical backup power during outages, which is a growing consideration for Kent homeowners.