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Even though big storms might come to mind when people first think of Oklahoma, the state receives around 230 days of sunshine per year, making it a great place to invest in solar energy. But while solar panels can generate long-term energy savings, they do require a significant upfront investment. Fortunately, Oklahoma residents can take advantage of several incentives to make solar installations more affordable.
Use this guide to learn about tax credits and net metering programs that Oklahoma residents can access to reduce their solar installation costs.
Oklahoma Solar Tax Credits, Incentives and Rebates Breakdown in 2023
Oklahoma residents can take advantage of several incentives to make solar installations more affordable, including a sizable tax credit from the federal government.
Federal Solar Tax Credit
The federal government offers a Solar Investment Tax Credit that lets homeowners deduct 30% of their solar panel installation cost from their federal taxes. The credit is available to residents in all 50 states, including Oklahoma. You can apply the credit if you own the solar panels, but not if you lease them.
Oklahoma Net Metering
Some Oklahoma residents can benefit from net metering, which is a program that sends the excess energy your panels produce back to the grid. In exchange, you’ll receive a credit for that energy on your energy bills.
Currently, the Oklahoma Corporation Commission mandates all investor-owned utilities to provide net energy metering, including Liberty Utilities, Public Service Company of Oklahoma and Oklahoma Gas & Electric. However, some people are charged a fee to join the net metering program. Plus, the state doesn’t take into account the full retail price of the energy your home produces, so the net metering program doesn’t offer as much savings as it does in many other states.
Oklahoma Solar Panels Cost
As of October 2023, Oklahoma solar panels cost an average of $2.62 per watt. So if you’re planning to install a 6 kW system, you can expect to pay around $15,720, or $11,004 if you apply the federal tax credit.
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Benefits of Going Solar in Oklahoma
Oklahoma receives around 230 days of sunshine per year, which can generate significant solar power and energy savings. In addition to reducing your monthly energy bills, going solar will reduce your carbon footprint and reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
And if you opt for a solar panel system with a battery backup, you can protect yourself against power outages during Oklahoma storms.
Is It Worth Going Solar in Oklahoma?
While going solar usually requires a significant upfront investment, it can save you quite a bit of money in the long run. Oklahoma residents save an average of around $26,212 in 20 years of having solar panels.
These savings mean that solar panels usually begin paying for themselves in around 10 years, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who plans to stay in their home long term.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Oklahoma have a solar rebate?
No, Oklahoma doesn’t have a solar rebate, but many residents can participate in local net metering programs that can lead to long-term energy savings.
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Oklahoma?
As of October 2023, Oklahoma solar panels cost an average of $2.62 per watt. So if you’re planning to install a 6 kW system, you can expect to pay around $15,720, or $11,004 if you apply the federal tax credit.
Can I install my own solar panels in Oklahoma?
It’s not recommended to DIY a solar panel installation unless you have direct experience and skills in doing so. It can be a dangerous job that can lead to electric shocks, falls, and other hazards, so it’s best left to the pros. Plus, some solar companies will void their warranties if your installation wasn’t completed by a certified professional.
How many solar panels do I need?
The number of solar panels you’ll need depends on your home’s size and energy usage. However, most U.S. households need around 15 to 20 solar panels to meet their energy demands.