Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple benefits. Let's look at a few of them.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery backup or storage system lets you have dependable energy during grid outages and storms.
- Lower utility costs: Sourcing some or all of your own electricity will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that enable you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power lowers your dependence on conventional, less environmentally-friendly sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Kenosha Homeowners?
The state of Wisconsin offers multiple solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of applicable solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Website: revenue.wi.govIncentive Amount:
100% exemption from sales and use tax for eligible purchases
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: focusonenergy.comIncentive Amount:
Solar PV: Residential - $200 per kW
Business - 0-5 kW: $200 per kW
5-10 kW: $1000 + $150 per kW over 5
10-100 kW: $1750 + $125 per kW over 10
100-300 kW: $13000 + $100 per kW over 100
300-500 kW: $33000 + $85 per kW over 300
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of the value added by an eligible renewable energy 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 Kenosha
Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar system. Here are some essential aspects to keep in mind while shopping for a solar installer.
Licensing and Training
For solar thermal installations, Wisconsin requires a licensed HVAC contractor or plumber to be the team if the work involves heating equipment or potable water. There are fewer restrictions for solar PV systems, but either your city government or the Wisconsin Division of Safety and Buildings may have to review building plans before you begin. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most prestigious 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 Kenosha
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 battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can increase your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar providers include these extras, so look for a provider that installs them if it's essential for you.
If you're a resident of Kenosha and want a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could expect to pay about $19,400 for parts and installation. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,121 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $874 |
| Thin-Film | $511 |
| Solar Battery | $717 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,690 |
Financing Solar Energy in Kenosha
Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, solar leases and solar loans. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for valuable solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Look for contractors that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your wallet.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Kenosha.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar power systems until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.0 years |
| 2 kW | 4.0 years |
| 5 kW | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | 20.0 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Kenosha
How much money could I save by going solar in Kenosha?
How prevalent is solar energy in Kenosha?
Will solar panels improve my Kenosha home price?
How can I evaluate my site's solar potential?
What is a Kenosha solar panel's average lifespan?
How do I care for my new solar system?
How are a solar lease and PPA different?
If you choose a lease, you'll make fixed monthly payments.
With both leases and PPAs, you don't 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.
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from local banks, installer, the government and specialty lenders. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are higher, and you'll be responsible for maintenance, you'll also have complete ownership and can apply for many more benefits.
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