Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home powered through blackouts and emergencies. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the expensive cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to help pay for your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Embracing solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Topeka Homeowners?
Kansas homeowners who choose solar could qualify for reimbursements, special financing, rebates and tax credits. Here are just a few of the area's incentive programs.
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 Topeka
The more thorough your provider search is, the better your solar system will ultimately perform. Here are some important factors to consider while shopping for a solar company.
Licensing and Training
In Kansas, the state government doesn't issue solar contracting licenses, though some cities issue and require their own licenses for projects within their borders. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Topeka
The type of solar panels you purchase determines how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.
If you want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your panel array more productive and convenient to use. Not every solar company includes these add-ons, so look for a provider that installs them if it's a priority for you.
You can plan to spend about $16,700 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Topeka. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Topeka solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,151 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $898 |
| Thin-Film | $525 |
| Solar Battery | $736 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,762 |
Financing Solar Energy in Topeka
Choosing the right financing plan will affect your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, loans, and power purchase agreements. We advise paying with cash or using a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) enables you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each installer you're vetting about the financing options it offers. A representative can help you determine the most suitable option for your financial situation.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Topeka.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to recently-purchased solar equipment purchased through 2032. Further incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
| 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 Topeka
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy common in Topeka?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after going solar?
What's a Topeka solar panel's average lifespan?
Is solar panel installation a quick job?
How do I care for my new solar system?
What's the difference between a PPA and a solar lease?
If you choose a lease, you'll make fixed monthly payments.
With both leases and PPAs, you do not own your panels and lose eligibility for most incentives. Further, you'll have to "buy out" or transfer the contract if you sell your home during the term.
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
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