Are Solar Panels Worth It in Central Ohio? Here's What Homeowners Should Know Before They Install
As electric bills continue to rise across Ohio, more homeowners are asking the same question: Should I install solar panels?
The answer depends on more than just your monthly utility bill.
A recent Spectrum News story highlighted both sides of the conversation. One Ohio homeowner reported dramatically reducing his electric bill after installing rooftop solar, while a real estate professional explained why solar panels can sometimes complicate a future home sale, particularly when they're leased rather than owned.
If you're a homeowner in Columbus or Central Ohio, here's what you should consider before making the investment.
The Benefits of Solar Panels
For homeowners planning to stay in their home for many years, solar can provide meaningful long-term savings.
According to the Spectrum News interview, one Ohio homeowner generated enough electricity to eliminate his electric bill during peak production months while even earning utility credits for excess energy sent back to the grid. Rising electricity costs have made those savings even more attractive in recent years.
Potential benefits include:
Lower monthly electric bills
Protection from future utility rate increases
Reduced environmental impact
Greater energy independence
Potential federal tax incentives (when available)
For families planning to remain in the same home for 10, 15, or even 20 years, these savings can add up substantially.
The Upfront Investment
Solar panels aren't inexpensive.
Depending on system size, roof configuration, and equipment, installation can cost tens of thousands of dollars before incentives. Recent Ohio estimates place the average installation well above $30,000 before applicable tax credits, although actual costs vary significantly by home and system size.
Because of the investment involved, homeowners should carefully evaluate:
How long they plan to stay in the home
Current electric usage
Roof age and condition
Available financing options
Expected return on investment
What Happens When You Sell?
This is where many homeowners are surprised.
A common assumption is that solar panels automatically increase a home's value.
In reality, the answer depends on how the system is owned.
Owned Solar Systems
If the panels are fully paid for, many buyers view lower utility bills as a benefit.
Although solar may not dramatically increase appraised value, an owned system can appeal to buyers who value energy efficiency and long-term savings.
Leased Solar Panels or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
This is where transactions can become more complicated.
According to the Spectrum News interview, buyers may hesitate when they're asked to assume an existing lease or long-term agreement that could add thousands of dollars in future obligations. In some cases, buyers simply move on to another property without that additional complexity.
For sellers, that doesn't necessarily mean leased solar is a deal breaker, but it does create another negotiation point that buyers will evaluate.
Solar Doesn't Fit Every Buyer
Just like swimming pools, finished basements, or home offices, solar panels appeal to some buyers more than others.
Some buyers actively seek energy-efficient homes.
Others worry about:
Roof maintenance
Future equipment replacement
Understanding the system
Financing assumptions
Insurance questions
That's why it's important not to assume solar automatically adds dollar-for-dollar resale value.
Questions to Ask Before Installing Solar
If you're considering solar, think through these questions first:
How long do I realistically plan to stay in this home?
Will I purchase the system outright or lease it?
Is my roof in good condition?
What are my current utility costs?
How much will I actually save?
How might this affect resale if I move in five years?
These answers often determine whether solar makes financial sense.
The Bottom Line for Central Ohio Homeowners
Solar panels can absolutely reduce energy costs and make sense for many homeowners.
But if selling your home is part of your short- or medium-term plan, it's worth considering how buyers may view the investment. Owned systems generally create fewer hurdles than leased systems, and every neighborhood and price point can react differently.
Before making a significant home improvement like solar, it helps to understand not only the energy savings but also the potential impact on your home's marketability.
If you're wondering whether solar panels would be a smart investment for your specific Central Ohio home—or how they could affect resale value down the road—I'd be happy to help you evaluate your options based on today's local market.
Source: Spectrum News, Benefits and Risks of Using Solar Panels to Power a Home, published July 26, 2026.
