Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Adopting solar is a surefire way to lower your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery storage system lets you have reliable energy during grid outages and storms.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the expensive cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity at home. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Muskogee Homeowners?
The state of Oklahoma offers a number of solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Check out a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: ecoec.comIncentive Amount:
Replacement ground source heat pump - $150 per ton
Complete system (unit and ground loop) - $750 per ton
Marathon Electric water heater - $150
ENERGY STAR heat pump water heater: up to $500
ENERGY STAR Room AC - $50
ENERGY STAR Advanced programmable thermostat: up to $50
Weatherization: 50% of cost
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 Muskogee
The price and performance of solar panels often hinge on the provider that installed them. Here are some crucial criteria to remember while shopping for a solar specialist.
Licensing and Training
Anyone with an electrician's license from the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board may perform solar energy work. The state doesn't treat solar panel installations as different from any other electrical job. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar sector's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Muskogee
Your solar panels' style will influence how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.
You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can increase your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors provide these optional components, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's important for you.
You can plan to spend about $15,650 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Muskogee. Check the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Muskogee solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,060 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $827 |
| Thin-Film | $483 |
| Solar Battery | $678 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,544 |
Financing Solar Energy in Muskogee
Choosing the ideal financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, loans, cash payments, and leases. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective 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 money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in certain circumstances. Ask each company you're considering about the payment plans it offers. A staff member can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Muskogee.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.
| 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 Muskogee
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy common in Muskogee?
Should I anticipate a boost in my property value after adopting solar power?
How can I determine my site's solar suitability?
What's the average solar system size in Muskogee?
How long does it take to pay back a solar loan in Muskogee?
What are the signs I shouldn't use a particular solar company for my job?
- Pressuring you into signing a contract
- Not being straightforward about warranties, references, cost and credentials and training
- Inflexible options
- Rushing through the site assessment
- Limited online information
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
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