Portlandia Electric Supply
Trusted by homeowners and Installers
Industry-leading equipment pricing with no hidden fees or markups
Residential Kits
🚀 Equipment only pricing • Installation available separately • Save $10,000-50,000 vs traditional solar
Complete DIY solar kits for homeowners
| System Size | Equipment Cost | After Tax Credit | Annual Savings | Payback | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5kW | $4,950 | $5,740 | $912 | 6.3 years | ||
| 8kW | $7,920 | $9,184 | $1,459 | 6.3 years | ||
| 10kW Most Popular | $9,900 | $11,480 | $1,824 | 6.3 years | ||
| 12kW | $11,880 | $13,776 | $2,189 | 6.3 years | ||
| 15kW | $14,850 | $17,220 | $2,736 | 6.3 years |
| Company | Residential | Installation | Warranty | Value | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PowerLink Network | $0.99/W | Optional | 25+ years | Best Value | |||
| Tesla Solar | $2.40/W | Included | 25 years | ||||
| Sunrun | $3.20/W | Included | 25 years | ||||
| SunPower | $3.80/W | Included | 25 years |
Residential:
$0.99/WInstall:
OptionalWarranty:
25+ yearsFinancing:
2.99% APRResidential:
$2.40/WCommercial:
$2.80/WUtility:
N/AInstall:
IncludedWarranty:
25 yearsFinancing:
3.99% APRResidential:
$3.20/WInstall:
IncludedWarranty:
25 yearsFinancing:
4.99% APRResidential:
$3.80/WInstall:
IncludedWarranty:
25 yearsFinancing:
5.99% APRGet your custom quote today and see exactly how much you can save
Equipment Starting Price
Local Installer Ready Kit's
Average Savings
Powering Franklin County with reliable solar technology, battery storage, and backup systems. Local expertise for homes, businesses, and commercial facilities throughout the Greater Columbus metropolitan area.
Trusted by Columbus homeowners, contractors, and businesses since 2018
Columbus's energy landscape presents unique opportunities for solar adoption. With AEP Ohio electricity rates rising consistently and Ohio's seasonal weather requiring reliable backup power, homeowners and businesses across Franklin County are discovering the financial and practical benefits of solar energy and battery storage systems.
Ohio electricity rates have increased steadily over the past decade, with AEP Ohio residential rates now averaging 13-15 cents per kWh—among the highest in the Midwest. Solar systems lock in your energy costs for 25+ years, providing predictable savings that compound as utility rates continue climbing. Columbus businesses face even higher commercial rates averaging 11-13 cents per kWh plus significant demand charges.
Central Ohio experiences frequent summer thunderstorms with high winds, winter ice storms, and severe weather events that regularly disrupt power across Franklin County. Battery storage systems provide essential backup for home comfort, sump pumps, medical equipment, and business continuity. Average Columbus home experiences 2-4 power outages annually lasting 2-8 hours each—battery systems bridge these gaps seamlessly.
Columbus receives 4.5 peak sun hours daily and approximately 178 sunny days annually—solid solar resources for the Midwest region. Ohio's moderate climate avoids the extreme heat that reduces panel efficiency in southern states, resulting in consistent year-round production. Well-designed systems generate 1,100-1,300 kWh annually per installed kW, providing excellent return on investment for Central Ohio installations.
The 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit remains available through 2032 for all solar installations. Ohio offers property tax exemptions for residential renewable energy systems, ensuring your solar investment doesn't increase property taxes. Net metering ensures you receive retail credit for excess solar production sent to the AEP Ohio grid. Commercial installations qualify for accelerated MACRS depreciation, recovering 85% of costs within six years.
Whether you're a homeowner looking to reduce utility bills, a contractor serving the Greater Columbus area, or a business seeking to cut operational costs, PES delivers the products, expertise, and logistics support to ensure project success in Central Ohio's diverse climate and competitive energy market.
Take control of your energy bills with solar systems engineered for Ohio's seasonal weather and AEP Ohio's net metering program. Our pre-designed kits include high-efficiency panels, inverters, racking systems, and all necessary components—paired with PowerLink-certified local installers who understand Ohio building codes and utility requirements.
Average Columbus installation: 6-8 kW system producing 7,500-10,000 kWh annually—enough to offset 65-85% of typical household consumption.
Explore Residential Solar Kits →Grow your solar business across Franklin County and the Greater Columbus region with bulk pricing, priority inventory allocation, and dedicated project support. PowerLink members receive same-day quotes, consolidated shipping to minimize logistics costs, and technical assistance for residential and commercial installations throughout Central Ohio.
Columbus-area PowerLink partners report 40% reduction in material procurement time and improved project margins through volume discounts on panels, inverters, and racking systems.
Join PowerLink Network →Reduce operating costs for offices, retail facilities, warehouses, and manufacturing operations with solar systems designed for Ohio's commercial energy market. Offset expensive demand charges, reduce monthly utility bills by 40-60%, and improve your bottom line. Federal tax credits and accelerated MACRS depreciation make commercial solar financially attractive with 4-7 year payback periods.
Commercial installations qualify for combined federal incentives potentially recovering 85% of system costs within six years through tax benefits and depreciation.
Request Commercial Consultation →Partner with PES for utility-scale solar farms, community solar projects, and grid modernization initiatives throughout Central Ohio. We supply transformer equipment, commercial-grade panels, and large-format battery storage systems with documentation and certifications required for utility interconnection with AEP Ohio and other regional utilities serving Franklin County.
Our logistics team coordinates multi-truck deliveries, equipment staging, and phased material releases to match construction timelines for projects ranging from 500kW to 10MW+ across the Columbus metropolitan area.
Discuss Utility Projects →Every product we supply is specifically selected for performance in Ohio's four-season climate—from winter temperatures near 0°F to summer heat above 90°F. We partner exclusively with manufacturers offering proven reliability in Midwest conditions with comprehensive warranties and local support networks.
Aptos Solar and Canadian Solar monocrystalline panels engineered for Ohio's seasonal climate. Features include enhanced performance across temperature ranges, 25-year warranties, and efficiency ratings up to 22.8%. Available in residential (400-420W) and commercial (550W+) configurations. All panels rated for Ohio building requirements including wind resistance to 140 mph and hail resistance to 1" diameter.
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Tesla Powerwall 3, Enphase IQ Battery, and Franklin WholePower systems for residential backup. Commercial options include Tesla Megapack and Blue Planet Energy batteries. All systems feature wide temperature operation (0°F to +110°F) and seamless grid-tied or off-grid operation—critical for Columbus's summer storms and winter weather events. 10-15 year warranties with 6,000-10,000 cycle life ratings.
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High-efficiency heat pumps and air conditioning systems designed for Ohio's hot, humid summers and cold winters. Modern heat pump technology provides efficient heating down to 0°F outdoor temperature—ideal for Columbus climate. Pair with solar to offset cooling costs—typically 35-45% of annual energy consumption in Central Ohio homes. SEER ratings up to 22 and HSPF ratings up to 12 for maximum efficiency and comfort.
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Generac, Kohler, and Cummins standby generators for reliable home and business backup. Natural gas models connect to municipal gas infrastructure throughout Columbus metro area for unlimited runtime. Propane options available for areas without natural gas service. Automatic transfer switches provide seamless power transition within 10 seconds—essential for sump pumps, refrigeration, and business continuity during summer storms and winter weather events.
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Siemens and ABB utility-grade transformers for commercial and utility-scale projects. Pad-mount and pole-mount configurations available with voltage ratings from 480V to 69kV. All units meet AEP Ohio interconnection specifications. Standard efficiency ratings exceed DOE requirements, minimizing losses and maximizing system performance for Columbus-area commercial and utility installations.
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ChargePoint, Tesla, and Enel X charging stations rated for outdoor operation in Ohio weather conditions. Level 2 (240V) and DC fast charging options with temperature compensation ensuring reliable performance year-round. OCPP compatibility for network management. Support Columbus's growing electric vehicle adoption—Ohio ranks in top 20 states for EV registrations and growing rapidly across Franklin County.
View EV ChargersReal results from homeowners, contractors, and businesses throughout Franklin County and the Greater Columbus metropolitan area.
"After watching our AEP Ohio bills climb every summer, we invested in solar with battery backup. Our 9kW system now covers most of our usage, and the Powerwall kept our AC and refrigerator running during last July's storm when power was out for 8 hours. The PowerLink installer PES recommended handled everything professionally—permits, installation, utility coordination. First-year savings: $1,280."
"Running a solar installation business in Columbus means coordinating multiple projects across Franklin County. PES's 48-hour delivery commitment has been essential—when I need panels or inverters, materials arrive quickly without me having to stock huge inventory. Their PowerLink pricing on bulk orders and their responsive customer service team has given me a real competitive advantage in the Columbus market."
"Our warehouse facility was paying $3,500+ monthly to AEP Ohio with massive demand charges. PES designed a 75kW rooftop system that's cut our electricity costs by $2,100 monthly. The federal tax credit and accelerated depreciation made the numbers work incredibly well. System paid for itself in 5.2 years and we've now eliminated demand charges completely during daylight hours when the warehouse is most active."
Documented outcomes from residential, commercial, and utility installations throughout Franklin County and the Greater Columbus area.
A 2,400 sq ft home in Dublin installed an 8.4kW Aptos Solar system paired with Tesla Powerwall 3 battery. The system was designed to offset 80% of annual consumption while providing 18-24 hour backup power for essential circuits including HVAC, refrigerator, sump pump, and internet during summer storms and winter weather.
Annual electricity savings
System payback period: 7.8 years after federal tax credit. Maintained power during 5 outages in Year 1 totaling 28 hours.
A 12,000 sq ft professional office building in Westerville installed a 100kW rooftop solar array to offset high AEP Ohio commercial rates and significant demand charges. System was designed to cover daytime electricity consumption when building operations are most intensive and demand charges are highest.
Annual operating cost reduction
Projected 25-year savings: $950,000+ including avoided utility rate increases. 5.4-year payback after federal tax benefits and depreciation.
Expert answers to common questions about solar installation, performance, and benefits in Central Ohio's climate.
We provide comprehensive solar solutions for Columbus including pre-built residential solar kits, high-efficiency Aptos and Canadian Solar panels, hybrid inverters with battery integration, complete energy storage systems, and commercial-scale installations ranging from 10kW to 500kW+.
Our residential kits include everything needed for installation: solar panels, inverters, racking systems, wiring, monitoring equipment, and detailed installation guides. PowerLink-certified contractors throughout Columbus are available for professional installation with permits and utility interconnection handled completely.
Federal Incentives (All Customers):
Ohio State Programs:
Commercial Incentives:
Most solar orders ship to Columbus within 48 hours for in-stock items. Our logistics network ensures rapid delivery throughout Franklin County and the Greater Columbus area. Residential solar kits typically arrive within 2-5 business days. Commercial orders requiring multiple truck deliveries are coordinated to match your installation schedule.
Typical delivery timeline:
PowerLink members receive priority processing and can often receive materials even faster for time-sensitive projects.
Although PES does not directly provide installation services, our PowerLink network connects customers throughout Columbus with experienced, highly qualified, and fully licensed contractors who ensure every installation is completed with the utmost reliability, expertise, and attention to quality.
PowerLink contractors in the Columbus area are familiar with:
We can connect you with qualified installers who will handle all aspects including site assessment, system design, permits, installation, utility interconnection, and final inspection—ensuring a seamless solar experience from start to finish.
We work with installers who offer a variety of financing plans to make solar accessible for Columbus homeowners and businesses:
Residential Options:
Commercial Options:
Many Columbus homeowners find that monthly solar loan payments are less than their previous AEP Ohio electricity bills, providing immediate positive cash flow while building home equity.
Join hundreds of satisfied customers who've made the switch to solar across Franklin County. Whether you're protecting against rising AEP Ohio utility costs, preparing for severe weather, or reducing operational expenses for your business, our team is ready to help you achieve energy independence.
We deliver throughout Franklin County and surrounding areas, including Columbus, Dublin, Westerville, Grove City, Gahanna, Hilliard, Upper Arlington, and communities across Central Ohio.
Get matched with certified professionals for transparent pricing and expert installation services.
Comprehensive solar technology comparison climate and conditions
High-efficiency monocrystalline PERC solar panels
Excellent performance in 4A climate
Latest N-Type TOPCon solar technology
Superior low-light performance conditions
15% more energy generation vs standard
Bifacial glass-glass solar panels optimized
Enhanced durability weather conditions
Ground reflection boost from seasonal snow coverage
Central string inverters solar installations | Brands: Fronius, SolarEdge, Sungrow
Panel-level microinverters complex roof installations | Brands: Enphase, AP Systems
Power optimizers partially shaded installations | Brands: SolarEdge, Tigo
| System Size | Equipment | Installation | Total Cost | Federal Credit | Net Cost | Annual Production | Annual Savings | Payback | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5kW | $3,750 | $2,500 | $6,250 | $1,875 | $4,375 | 6,515 kWh | $912 | 4.8 years | $38 |
| 6kW | $4,500 | $3,000 | $7,500 | $2,250 | $5,250 | 7,818 kWh | $1,095 | 4.8 years | $46 |
| 8kW | $6,000 | $4,000 | $10,000 | $3,000 | $7,000 | 10,424 kWh | $1,459 | 4.8 years | $61 |
| 10kW | $7,500 | $5,000 | $12,500 | $3,750 | $8,750 | 13,031 kWh | $1,824 | 4.8 years | $77 |
| 12kW | $9,000 | $6,000 | $15,000 | $4,500 | $10,500 | 15,637 kWh | $2,189 | 4.8 years | $92 |
| 15kW | $11,250 | $7,500 | $18,750 | $5,625 | $13,125 | 19,546 kWh | $2,736 | 4.8 years | $115 |
| 20kW | $15,000 | $10,000 | $25,000 | $7,500 | $17,500 | 26,061 kWh | $3,649 | 4.8 years | $153 |
| 25kW | $18,750 | $12,500 | $31,250 | $9,375 | $21,875 | 32,576 kWh | $4,561 | 4.8 years | $191 |
Everything you need to know about solar build kits, installation, costs, and incentives
Our solar build kits include everything needed: Tier 1 panels (420W-550W), inverters (Enphase IQ8+, SolarEdge, Fronius), mounting systems, monitoring, and permits. Traditional solar companies in charge $2.50-$4.00/W for the same equipment.
✓ Tier 1 solar panels (REC, Panasonic, Q Cells)
✓ Premium inverters (Enphase, SolarEdge, Fronius)
✓ Professional mounting systems (IronRidge)
✓ Monitoring systems and production tracking
✓ Professional design and permit drawings
✓ 25-year comprehensive warranties
Traditional solar companies markup equipment 200-400% to cover sales commissions, marketing costs, and dealer profits. PES eliminates these markups by selling direct to customers at wholesale pricing.
• 40% Sales commissions
• 25% Marketing & advertising
• 20% Dealer markups
• 15% Corporate overhead
• Complex financing fees
• No sales commissions
• No marketing markups
• Direct from distributor
• Wholesale pricing only
• Simple cash pricing
REC Solar
Alpha Pure-R
420W
Efficiency:22.3%
Warranty:25 years
Panasonic
EverVolt
445WE
fficiency:22.2%
Warranty:25 years
Q Cells
Q.PEAK DUO
500W
Efficiency:21.9%
Warranty:25 years
All PES solar build kits include only Tier 1 solar panel manufacturers - companies with proven financial stability, manufacturing quality, and 25+ year track records. These panels are identical to those used by Tesla, SunPower, and other premium Installer Ready Kit's.
✓ Financial stability (Bloomberg Tier 1 rating)
✓ Proven manufacturing quality control
✓ 25-year performance warranties
✓ Industry-leading efficiency ratings
✓ Low degradation rates (<0.5%/year)
✓ Excellent weather resistance
✓ Strong resale value protection
✓ Insurance compatibility
Monocrystalline PERC:High efficiency, excellent low-light performance
N-Type TOPCon:Latest technology, higher efficiency, better temperature performance
Bifacial Glass-Glass:Dual-sided production, 30-year lifespan, commercial applications
Brands:Enphase IQ8+, SolarEdge Power Optimizers
Performance:Panel-level optimization
Monitoring:Individual panel monitoring
Shading:Excellent shading tolerance
Warranty:25 years
Safety:No high-voltage DC on roof
Cost Premium:+$0.10-0.15/W
Brands:Fronius, SolarEdge, SMA
Performance:String-level optimization
Monitoring:String-level monitoring
Shading:Reduced output with shading
Warranty:10-12 years
Safety:High-voltage DC on roof
Cost:Lower upfront cost
Choose Microinverters if:You have shading issues, complex roof shapes, want maximum production, or plan to add panels later
Choose String Inverters if:You have simple roof layouts, no shading, want lower upfront costs, or have utility-scale installations
Most Popular:75% of residential customers choose Enphase IQ8+ microinverters for the 25-year warranty and superior performance
Microinverters (Optimal Conditions):
Annual Production: 16,200 kWh
25-Year Production: 405,000 kWh
String Inverters (Optimal Conditions):
Annual Production: 15,800 kWh
25-Year Production: 390,000 kWh
EG4 LifePower4
Capacity:5kWh modules
Type:LiFePO4
Cycles:6,000+
Warranty:10 years
Cost:$1,200-1,500
Tesla Powerwall 3
Capacity:13.5kWh
Type:Lithium-ion
Cycles:5,000
Warranty:10 years
Cost:$15,000-18,000
Enphase IQ Battery
Capacity:5kWh modules
Type:LiFePO4
Cycles:6,000+
Warranty:15 years
Cost:$7,000-9,000
✓ Backup power during outages
✓ Peak shaving (reduce demand charges)
✓ Time-of-use optimization
✓ Grid independence capability
✓ Storm preparedness
✓ Electric vehicle charging
✓ Future grid resiliency
✓ Increased home value
Essential Loads (lights, refrigerator, WiFi):10-15kWh (1-2 batteries)
Partial Home Backup:20-30kWh (2-3 batteries)
Whole Home Backup:40-60kWh (3-4 batteries)
Off-Grid Capable:60-100kWh (4-6+ batteries)
Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) Details for 2024:
✅ What Qualifies
• Solar panels and mounting systems
• Inverters and electrical components
• Battery storage systems (if solar charged)
• Installation labor costs
• Permits and inspection fees
• System design and engineering
💰 Tax Credit Calculation
10kW System Cost: $17,195
Federal Tax Credit (30%) : $5,159
Net System Cost: $12,036
Effective Cost per Watt: $1.13/W
Important Tax Credit Rules Residents:
• Tax credit is dollar-for-dollar reduction in federal taxes owed
• Must have sufficient tax liability to claim full credit
• Unused credits can be carried forward to future tax years
• System must be placed in service by December 31, 2034
• Credit applies to primary and secondary residences
• No maximum limit on credit amount
⏰ Tax Credit Schedule (Don't Wait!):
2024-2032: 30% tax credit
2033: 26% tax credit
2034: 22% tax credit
2035+: No federal tax credit
The 30% federal solar tax credit saves the average homeowner $5,000-15,000 on their solar build kit installation. This is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in federal taxes owed, not a deduction.
Local Solar Incentives & Rebates:
IN State Solar Incentives
Local Utility Programs
Total Incentive Stack Example (10kW System):
System Cost (PES Build Kit + Installation):
$17,195
Federal Tax Credit (30%):
-$5,159
State/Local Incentives:
-$1,000
Utility Rebates:
-$500
Net Cost After All Incentives:
$10,536
Effective Cost: $0.99/W Installed!
⚠️ Important Incentive Deadlines:
PES solar specialists stay current on all incentives and will help you maximize available rebates and tax credits. Total incentives typically reduce system costs by 40-60%.
Get a custom quote for your solar build kit with professional installation
Real savings and payback results from PES equipment and Installer Ready Kit's
$16,500
Average Total Savings
$1.61/W
Installed System Cost
6.5 years
Average Payback
2-3 weeks
Install Timeline
JR
Jennifer R
PowerLink Installation
⚡ 8.5kW • 💰 Saved $1,551/year vs traditional pricing
The PowerLink Installer Ready Kit's was professional and the pricing was transparent. Our Duke Energy bills went from $168 to under $20/month. The system produces exactly what was promised.
✓ PES Customer
Installed 5 months ago
MT
Mark T
DIY Installation
⚡ 12kW DIY • 💰 Saved $6,689 total vs traditional pricing
Saved $4,500 on installation by going DIY. The kit included everything needed and the support team helped with Hamilton County permitting. System performs better than expected climate.
✓ PES Customer
Installed 11 months ago
S&BK
Sarah & Bob K
PowerLink Installation
⚡ 15kW Commercial • 💰 Saved $3,284/year vs traditional pricing
Our manufacturing facility needed reliable backup power. The PowerLink team coordinated everything including Duke Energy interconnection. ROI exceeded projections by 15%.
✓ PES Customer
Installed 10 months ago
JR
Jennifer R
PowerLink Installation
⚡ 8.5kW • 💰 Saved $1,551/year vs traditional pricing
The PowerLink Installer Ready Kit's was professional and the pricing was transparent. Our Duke Energy bills went from $168 to under $20/month. The system produces exactly what was promised.
✓ PES Customer
Installed 5 months ago
MT
Mark T
DIY Installation
⚡ 12kW DIY • 💰 Saved $6,689 total vs traditional pricing
Saved $4,500 on installation by going DIY. The kit included everything needed and the support team helped with Hamilton County permitting. System performs better than expected climate.
✓ PES Customer
Installed 11 months ago
S&BK
Sarah & Bob K
PowerLink Installation
⚡ 15kW Commercial • 💰 Saved $3,284/year vs traditional pricing
Our manufacturing facility needed reliable backup power. The PowerLink team coordinated everything including Duke Energy interconnection. ROI exceeded projections by 15%.
✓ PES Customer
Installed 10 months ago
🎯 Join thousands of customers saving with PES wholesale pricing
Professional-grade equipment with up to 25 year warranties
PES delivers revolutionary pricing with fast payback periods - Real equipment, real savings
Equipment Pricing
Avg Payback
Warranties
Professional Equipment • Fast Payback • 25-Year Warranties • Local Installation
