Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Mentor, Ohio. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A large, well-established regional installer with a strong presence in Ohio. They are known for a comprehensive, in-house approach, handling everything from initial design and permitting to installation and maintenance. They offer a wide range of financing options and are experts in navigating local incentives.
A leading Ohio-based solar installer recognized for high-quality workmanship and excellent customer service. They focus on custom-designed systems and have deep expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid solutions, including premium battery storage like Tesla Powerwall.
One of Ohio's oldest and most experienced solar companies, based in Athens but serving the entire state, including Northeast Ohio. They are known for their consultative approach, high-quality components, and long-term commitment to customer support and system maintenance.
** The home solar market in Mentor, Ohio, is a developing and competitive field characterized by a few key regional players rather than a high density of hyper-local installers. The overall quality of service is high, as the companies that succeed in this market are established, licensed, and certified (often as NABCEP Certified Practitioners). **Competition Level:** Moderate. Homeowners have a solid selection of 3-5 highly reputable regional companies to choose from, which drives competitive pricing and good customer service. It is not oversaturated with low-quality "fly-by-night" operations, which is a positive for consumers. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Ohio ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. For a typical 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$20,000 - $28,000**. The net cost after the federal tax credit would be approximately **$14,000 - $19,600**. Financing through loans and leasing options are widely available, making $0-down installations common. **Key Local Factors:** Ohio's solar incentives are primarily the federal tax credit and net metering policies, which vary by utility (in Mentor, this is often the Illuminating Company). A reputable local installer will have extensive experience with these specific utility requirements. The region's climate, with four distinct seasons and snowfall, makes system design (optimizing for sun angle) and post-installation services like panel cleaning and snow removal relevant considerations for homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Mentor regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Mentor, Ohio.
A typical 6-8 kW residential solar system in Mentor ranges from $18,000 to $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can claim the 30% federal solar tax credit, and Ohio has no state sales tax on solar installations. While there is no state-wide rebate, Mentor residents should check with The Illuminating Company (CEI) for any local utility incentives or net metering programs that can significantly impact long-term savings.
Solar panels are effective in cold, sunny weather and actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. While winter days are shorter and snow cover can temporarily reduce output, panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow. Northeast Ohio receives sufficient annual sunlight (about 160 sunny days) for a robust solar ROI, with systems producing the majority of their energy from spring through fall to offset year-round usage.
Installing solar in Mentor requires a building and electrical permit from the City of Mentor's Building Department. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process. Regulations involve compliance with the Ohio Building Code and the National Electrical Code (NEC). Importantly, your system must be inspected and approved by the City and then interconnected with The Illuminating Company under their specific net metering agreement.
Prioritize local Ohio-based installers with extensive experience in Lake County, as they understand regional weather patterns and local permitting. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Always ask for references from recent Mentor installations and compare detailed proposals that include production estimates specific to our climate.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a battery backup. For severe weather common in Mentor, such as hail or high winds, panels are rated to withstand impact and are installed to meet local wind load requirements. A quality installation from a reputable local provider will ensure your system is durable and includes proper monitoring to track performance through all seasons.