Ohio vs Kentucky Solar Incentives: Which State Gets the Better Deal?
Side-by-side comparison of Ohio and Kentucky solar incentive programs in 2026: state tax credits, net metering rules, exemptions, payback period, and projected 25-year savings.
| Metric | OH · Ohio | KY · Kentucky |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Monthly Bill | $135 | $145 |
| Peak Sun Hours / Day | 4.3 | 4.6 ◆ |
| Avg $/Watt Installed | $2.9 ◆ | $2.95 |
| State Tax Credit | None | None |
| Net Metering | retail | retail |
| SREC Market | ~$7800 | No |
| Property Tax Exempt | No | No |
| Sales Tax Exempt | No | No |
| Payback, pre-credit model (yrs) | 8.7 ◆ | 10.4 |
| 25-yr savings, pre-credit model | $32,800 ◆ | $25,400 |
Payback and 25-year savings were modeled while the federal residential credit applied. They are not a 2026 quote. The calculator uses $0 federal credit and state incentives only.
State Tax Credit Comparison
Ohio offers no state income tax credit. Kentucky offers no state income tax credit.
Net Metering Policies
Ohio: retail rate net metering active. Kentucky: retail rate net metering active.
Net metering is often the most economically significant solar policy because it determines how excess production is valued. Retail-rate states (where you receive full retail price for exported energy) have substantially better solar economics than avoided-cost or no-net-metering states.
Average 25-Year Savings
Ohio: $32,800 over 25 years (avg payback 8.7 yrs). Kentucky: $25,400 over 25 years (avg payback 10.4 yrs).
Verdict: Which State Wins on Solar?
Ohio edges out Kentucky on lifetime savings primarily due to more favorable net metering rules.
Note: state averages mask significant within-state variation. Your specific utility, roof orientation, and household electricity profile drive your actual numbers — use the calculator to model your home directly.