Solar power has become increasingly popular due to its potential for offering cleaner and greener electricity. If you are an Arkansas citizen who is hesitant to invest in solar panels because you don’t know if they are worth it in Arkansas or not, this blog is for you. Here we’ll tell you all the benefits of installing panels and their cost.
Are Solar Panels Worth it in Arkansas?
Yes, investing in solar panels is totally worth it for Arkansas residents. This place has relatively sunny weather and thus solar panels work best here. You can generate your own electricity and save a lot on energy bills here.
Can I Install My Own Solar Panels in Arkansas?
The short answer is yes; it’s completely possible. Many people opt for a DIY approach to installing solar panels in their homes to save money on installation costs.
However, it’s essential to note that not all DIY solar panels are designed to hook up to the traditional energy grid. It’s crucial to research which options will work best for your needs. If you’re unsure, consulting with a professional would be advisable.
Also, check out How to Start a Solar Farm in Arkansas
How Much Do Solar Panels in Arkansas Cost?
The average solar panel cost here is about $2.60-2.76 per watt. Additionally, the average cost for a 5 kW solar panel system in this state ranges from $11k to $15k, with an average gross cost of about $13k. You can also use state and federal incentives to offset the cost of installing solar panels in Arkansas.
How Long Does it Take for Solar Panels to Pay for Themselves in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the payback period for residential solar panel systems is 14 years which is longer than the national average of 12 years. While this may seem like a significant investment, the long-term savings can be immense, allowing homeowners to recoup their initial investment and save on energy costs for years.
Also, take a look at our blog – How Much Do Ground Mounted Solar Panels Cost?
What are the Benefits of Installing Solar Panels in Arkansas?
These are some advanatges of installing solar panels in Arkansas-
1. Save money on your electric bill
In Arkansas, the average monthly electricity bill is a bit higher than the national average. Solar panels can help you save money on your electric bill by offsetting the cost of the electricity.
2. Reduce your carbon footprint
Solar panels are a clean and renewable energy source, which means they can help you reduce your carbon footprint. The average household CO2 emissions in the USA are about 15,000 pounds per year. Switching to solar power could reduce your household’s carbon dioxide emissions.
3. Provides backup power during a power outage
Solar panels can provide backup power for your home. This is especially beneficial if you live in an area prone to severe weather conditions that can cause extended power outages.
4. Low maintenance and a long lifespan
Solar panels require very little maintenance and have a lifespan of 25 years or more. This means that once you have installed solar panels in your home, you will not have to worry about them for many years to come.
How Solar Energy Can Reduce Your Utility Bills?
With a solar power system at home, you can drastically reduce your utility bills and utilize the saved money for other useful purposes. Once installed, it generates electricity from the sun, which you can use to power all your electrical appliances without worrying about your consumption.
This not only lowers your bills but also helps to decrease your carbon footprint. These systems are also known for their durability and can serve you for over a decade.
Also Read: Understanding Electric Bill Before and After Solar Panels
How to Evaluate Your Home’s Efficiency for Solar Installation?
Efficiency is a crucial factor to consider when installing panels in your home. There are several factors to consider to determine if your house is efficient enough for solar installation.
- The first thing you should do is conduct an energy audit of your home.
- Then check for any obstructions such as neighboring trees, buildings, or chimneys.
- Determine the optimal angle for the solar panel.
- Evaluate the meter for generation numbers, giving insight into how much energy your system produces.
- Lastly, evaluate all the available state and solar incentives.
What to Consider Before Purchasing Solar Panels?
Before taking the plunge and investing in solar panels, it’s important to research your options and understand each type’s potential benefits and drawbacks. Consider the following questions:
- What is my budget for purchasing panels?
- Do I have enough space on my property to install PV panels?
- How much electricity do I typically use, and what energy savings can be achieved?
- What solar panels should I buy (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, etc.)?
- How efficient are the solar panels I’m considering, and how much energy will they produce?
In conclusion, solar panels are worth it in Arkansas due to the state’s abundant sunshine and generous incentives and within 14 years the amount you invested will pay itself. With a good quality system, residents can expect an average return on investment of around 10-15% over the lifetime of their system – going solar is one of the smartest investments they can make.
Recommended: What Questions to Ask about Solar Energy before Getting Panels?
