Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple perks. Here are some highlights.
- Lowered energy bills: You can skip the premium cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
- Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home powered through emergencies and blackouts, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery storage.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Embracing solar is a surefire way to lower your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Broken Arrow Homeowners?
The state of Oklahoma offers multiple solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: vvec.comIncentive Amount:
Room Air Conditioner: $50
Heat Pump Water Heaters: $500
Smart Thermostat: $50
Programmable Timer for Engine Block Heater: $15
Ground-Source Heat Pumps (new): $300/ton
Ground-Source Heat Pumps (replacement): $150/ton
Air-source/Dual Fuel Heat Pumps: $150/ton
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: PowerForwardWithPSO.comIncentive Amount:
LED Light Bulbs: up to $2/bulb
Advanced Power Strips: $10-$13
Programmable Wi-Fi Thermostat: $110
Energy Star Heat Pump Water Heater: $500
Energy Star Electric Clothes Dryer: $50
Energy Star Refrigerators: $50
Energy Star Clothes Washer: $50
Energy Star Bathroom Ventilation Fan: $25
Energy Star Room A/C: $25
Energy Star Water Cooler: $25
Energy Star Air Purifiers: $20-$50
Door Sweeps: $3
Door Seals: $5
Spray Foam Insulation: $1
Furnace Filters: $1
Pool Pump: $400
Attic/Ceiling Insulation: $400
Knee Wall Insulation, Wall Insulation, Floor/Crawlspace Insulation, Air Infiltration: Multiple Upgrades Only
Air Conditioner/Heat Pump Replacement: $500-$800
Ground Source Heat Pump: $800
Furnace ECM, Duct Replacement, Duct Sealing: Multiple Upgrades Only
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 Broken Arrow
The more comprehensive your provider search is, the better your solar installation will ultimately operate. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.
Licensing and Training
Anyone with an electrician's license from the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board may perform solar energy work. Oklahoma doesn't treat solar projects as different from any other electrical job. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most respected are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer 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 Broken Arrow
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. 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.
You can also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can improve your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar contractors provide these optional components, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's a priority for you.
If you're a resident of Broken Arrow and are considering getting a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $15,650 for parts and installation. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,103 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $860 |
| Thin-Film | $503 |
| Solar Battery | $706 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,646 |
Financing Solar Energy in Broken Arrow
There are various ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, leases, and loans. We suggest making a cash payment or securing a solar loan for the best 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 cut 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 monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases let you rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each company you're considering about the payment plans it offers. A consultant can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Broken Arrow.
The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on total system costs, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Municipal authorities and utilities might also offer their own financing programs, incentives, and rebates that could save you more money.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.3 years |
| 2 kW | 4.5 years |
| 5 kW | 11.3 years |
| 10 kW | 22.7 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Broken Arrow
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy readily available in Broken Arrow?
Should I expect a property value increase after adopting solar power?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a dark, wooded, or rainy area?
How long is a Broken Arrow solar panel's average lifespan?
Is solar panel installation a fast job?
What are the signs I shouldn't use a particular solar company for my job?
- Pushy sales approach
- Dodging questions about references, cost, training and credentials and warranties
- Limited or no customization
- Rushing through the site assessment
- More mixed or negative reviews than positive ones
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
