Solar Panel Laws in Oklahoma

When installing solar panels in the heart of Oklahoma, it’s important to note the region is still adapting to implementing systems such as this.

It has harsher laws in place compared to other parts of the nation.

Key Takeaways

• Oklahoma lacks a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), opting for a renewable energy goal (REG) instead, indicating a less committed approach to green energy adoption.
• Oklahoma does not offer state-level tax credits, rebates, or exemptions for solar panel installation, relying solely on the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
• The average electricity rate in Oklahoma is relatively low at 10.2 cents per kWh, but the state’s electricity tends to be environmentally unfriendly, contributing to higher pollution levels.

RPS in Oklahoma

Beginning with the concept of renewable energy, most states use what is known as an RPS (Renewable portfolio standard). This is simply a target set up by the state that can be hit to determine whether certain technologies are “green” and meet the required environmental targets.

In this case, Oklahoma doesn’t have an RPS in place. This means they go with a more non-committed approach to becoming green. It is known as the REG or renewable energy goal.

Due to this, the regulations are still leaning towards other energy sources rather than looking to become more and more renewable with time. This is something to note when it comes to solar laws in Oklahoma.

Tax Credits for Solar Panels

One of the critical details you will wonder about will be the underlying benefits of setting up solar panels on your property in Oklahoma. The state generally does not have an ITC or income tax credit built around this type of energy.

However, this doesn’t mean it is a hopeless cause, and you will not have another way out. Instead, you can still move forward with the 30% federal ITC, as that will make it much easier to set up the system and get it to work at an affordable rate.

On the same note, you will not have access to any rebates when setting up solar panels in the region.

As mentioned before, all of the rebates you will get will have to come from the federal level. The same applies to those looking for tax exemptions for this path.

Oklahoma doesn’t have these types of credits, which means any system being set up will have to face the brunt of the legal sales taxes in the state. This means you will have to be ready for a pretty sizable bill as soon as the installation of solar panels in the Oklahoma phase begins.

This means you will add at least 4.5% on your pay. It is also possible for additional sales taxes to go up to 8.4%, depending on where you are in the state.

Unfortunately, this is not where the damages will end regarding your finances. You must also account for taxes paid as the property’s value rises. There are no exemptions there, either.

Any time the property’s value increases, you must pay for that through property tax.

Electricity Rates in Oklahoma

To keep things in perspective, it’s essential to dig deeper and start looking at Oklahoma’s electricity rates to better understand what’s available to you.

Currently, the average is set at 10.2 cents per kWh, which must be accounted for when it is time to iron out your utility bills. You will want to consider this rate when figuring out how much you will save over the long haul.

Remember, the average solar energy setup will add value to your finances over the long haul because there is a sizable upfront cost to pay.

In general, these rates are pretty low. Still, you will also end up paying for a dirtier environment because Oklahoma’s electricity tends to be among the worst in the nation. This means you will pollute a lot more every time you use electricity.

Solar Loans

What about potential loans you can sign up for as a property owner?

Some companies offer zero-down loans, but this will be situational. Speaking to these companies during the consultation is recommended to learn more about your options.

Please note the government doesn’t offer these loans in the state.

Anything you are going to get will come from the company that is working on your property. Take the time to shop around and look for which company offers the best balance between quality and affordability to ensure you find a fair deal.

This is a must for moving forward in Oklahoma, with higher upfront costs to account for.

No Additional Incentives

Since Oklahoma doesn’t look at renewable energy in the same light as other states, it doesn’t have additional elements to benefit clients. This is something other states do.

The goal is to make tapping into these renewable energy sources easier through metering. The power goes into the power grid, and you get a small incentive for excess energy.

There is no such setup in the state of Oklahoma, and any excess energy that you are going to have will be yours.

Case Study: Residential Solar Installation in Oklahoma

Background

At Solar Panels Network USA, we are dedicated to providing sustainable energy solutions tailored to our clients’ needs. Recently, we completed a residential solar installation in Norman, Oklahoma. This case study showcases how we navigated the state’s solar panel laws and helped a homeowner achieve significant energy savings.

Project Overview

The homeowners in Norman were interested in reducing their carbon footprint and lowering their energy bills. Despite the state’s lack of specific solar incentives, they were determined to take advantage of the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). They reached out to us to design and install a solar system that would meet their energy needs and align with their environmental goals.

Implementation

We began the project with a comprehensive site assessment, identifying the best locations for maximum solar exposure. Our analysis of the household’s historical energy consumption helped us design a system that would be both efficient and cost-effective.

Given the absence of state-level net metering policies and incentives, we focused on optimizing the system for self-consumption. We selected a utility company that offered fair metering practices, ensuring that the homeowners could effectively manage their solar energy production and usage.

We installed high-efficiency photovoltaic panels and integrated a smart energy management system. This setup included advanced inverters and real-time monitoring capabilities, allowing the homeowners to track their energy production and consumption. The system was designed to maximize efficiency and support future energy storage solutions, should the homeowners decide to expand their setup.

Results

The installation resulted in immediate energy cost savings for the homeowners. By utilizing the federal ITC, they were able to significantly reduce the upfront cost of the system. The smart energy management system provided transparency and control, allowing them to optimize their energy usage and further reduce their utility bills.

Despite the lack of state-level incentives, the project demonstrated that significant financial benefits could still be achieved through careful planning and the use of federal programs. The homeowners were pleased with the seamless transition to solar power and the positive environmental impact of their new system.

The success of this project also generated interest within the Norman community. Several neighbors expressed curiosity about solar energy, and we provided them with information on the potential benefits and financial considerations.

Summary

This Norman project highlights how understanding and leveraging federal incentives can make solar energy a viable option, even in states without specific solar-friendly policies. By choosing the right utility company and optimizing the system for self-consumption, homeowners can achieve significant energy savings and contribute to a cleaner environment. Solar Panels Network USA is proud to support the growth of solar energy in Oklahoma, one installation at a time.

Expert Insights From Our Solar Panel Installers About Solar Panel Laws in Oklahoma

Understanding Oklahoma’s solar panel laws is crucial for homeowners looking to invest in solar energy. Despite the lack of state-level incentives, the federal Investment Tax Credit provides significant support, making solar installations financially viable.

Senior Solar Installer

Oklahoma’s renewable energy goal rather than a mandate reflects a more flexible approach. This means while state incentives are limited, there’s still substantial opportunity to save on energy costs through federal programs and careful planning.

Lead Solar Technician

Even without state rebates or tax credits, the low electricity rates in Oklahoma and the potential long-term savings from solar installations make it a smart choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners.

Solar Project Manager

Experience Solar Excellence with Us!

Trust in Solar Panels Network USA, where our seasoned experts deliver top-quality solar solutions for homes and businesses nationwide. With a legacy of countless successful installations and a commitment to sustainable energy, we’re your reliable partner in the solar journey. Ready for a brighter, eco-friendly future? Call us now at (855) 427-0058 and harness the power of the sun!

Map image by Wikimedia Commons User: TUBS / CC-BY-SA-3.0