Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple benefits. Let's look at a few of them.
- Lowered energy bills: With a solar array, you create power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-tied power. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant number of states offer net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home running through blackouts and emergencies, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Shawnee Homeowners?
The state of Kansas offers numerous solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of applicable solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Website: in.govIncentive Amount:
Solar energy systems used for heating or cooling: out-of-pocket expenditures by the owner for the components and labor
Wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, solar thermal, solar PV, and other solar energy systems: the assessed value of the system
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Shawnee
The purchase price and efficacy of solar panels often rely on which company installed them. Consider each of these factors in your company search.
Licensing and Training
In Kansas, the state government hasn't implemented centralized solar contracting licenses, though some cities issue and require their own licenses for projects within their borders. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most respected are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, backed by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.
Cost of Solar Panels in Shawnee
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.
If you'd like to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar contractor offers these add-ons, so look for a company that installs them if it's essential for you.
If you're a resident of Shawnee and are considering getting a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could expect to pay about $16,700 for materials and labor. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,160 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $905 |
| Thin-Film | $529 |
| Solar Battery | $742 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,783 |
Financing Solar Energy in Shawnee
Choosing the optimal financing plan will affect your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include loans, power purchase agreements, leases, and cash payments. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in specific circumstances. Ask each provider you're considering about the payment options it offers. A staff member can help you determine the most suitable option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Shawnee.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar power systems until the year 2032. City and state officials and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and specialized financing options that could save you more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 1.7 years |
| 2 kW | 3.4 years |
| 5 kW | 8.5 years |
| 10 kW | 16.9 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Shawnee
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy common in Shawnee?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after adopting solar power?
What if I live in a dark or gloomy
What's a Shawnee solar panel's average lifespan?
What care do my solar panels need, and how often do they need it?
What are some "red flags" to watch for as I research companies?
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Not being straightforward about credentials and training, references, warranties and cost
- Inflexible options
- Rushing through the site assessment
- No references or testimonials
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