Average: $21,750 before incentives · $2.90/watt
Homeowners in Columbia, MD pay an average of $2.90 per watt for solar panel installation. For a typical 7.5 kW residential system, that comes out to $21,750 before incentives.
The 30% federal Investment Tax Credit reduces the net cost to approximately $15,225. Local installer competition, permitting costs, and roof complexity can all affect your final price.
| System Size | Cost Before Credit | Cost After 30% ITC |
|---|---|---|
| 5 kW (Small) | $14,500 | $10,150 |
| 7.5 kW (Average) | $21,750 | $15,225 |
| 10 kW (Large) | $29,000 | $20,300 |
| 12 kW (Extra Large) | $34,800 | $24,360 |
See how much you can save with solar panels for your home. Compare quotes from top-rated local installers.
Get My Free Quote →In addition to the federal 30% tax credit, Columbia homeowners may qualify for:
Net metering availability in Maryland: Yes
Federal Solar Tax Credit Guide → | Net Metering Guide →
Solar prices can vary significantly between installers in Columbia. We recommend getting at least 3 quotes from local installers to compare pricing, equipment, and warranties. Key things to compare include the panel brand and efficiency, inverter type (string vs. microinverters), warranty terms, and whether monitoring is included.
See how much you can save with solar panels for your home. Compare quotes from top-rated local installers.
Get My Free Quote →Most residential solar installations in Columbia take 1-3 days for the physical installation. However, the full process from signing a contract to having your system turned on typically takes 2-3 months, primarily due to permitting and utility interconnection timelines.
Based on average electricity rates and 4.5 peak sun hours per day, most Columbia homeowners see a payback period of 7-12 years. After that, you're generating essentially free electricity for the remaining life of the system. Calculate your payback period →