If you‘re a Kansas resident wondering if now is the right time to add solar panels to your home, you likely have lots of questions. How much do solar panels cost to install and maintain in Kansas? Will they really reduce my electricity bills? By how much and how quickly? Are there any solar incentives or rebates available?
This comprehensive solar guide provides data-driven answers to all those questions and more. We‘ll analyze the economics of residential solar in Kansas in detail, crunch the numbers on system payback periods and long-term savings potential, compare top local installation companies, review state and federal solar policies, and give recommendations tailored specifically for Kansas households.
Solar Power Generation in Kansas: Quick Facts
- Kansas has vast solar potential but has underutilized it historically. Just 115 MW of solar power capacity installed statewide as of 2020, ranking 40th nationally
- Excellent solar resources across the state, averaging 5.0 to 6.5 peak sun hours per day depending on location
- Residential electricity rates currently ~13 cents/kWh, comparable to US median
- But solar equipment costs are ultra low at $2.39/Watt – providing fast payback potential
So economics alone make solar enticing for many Kansas homes today, even without state solar incentives. And as more Kansans go solar, the growing market helps drive installation costs even lower over time due to economies of scale.
Calculating Solar System Size and Initial Costs
Sizing a solar array properly for your household‘s needs is critical for optimal electricity offset and financial return. Solar companies can assess your past utility bills and roof dimensions then right-size a system accordingly.
As a starting point, the average Kansas home uses around 883 kWh of electricity monthly. With the state averaging 5.79 peak daily sun hours, this equates to a 5.1 kW solar system large enough to supply most or all of that household‘s electricity needs.
At current installation prices, such a 5 kW system would cost about $12,195 pre-incentive. Bumping to a 6 kW system at $14,340 allows room for future electricity consumption growth. We‘ll use this 6 kW reference case for subsequent cost and savings calculations.
Below is a breakdown of estimated Kansas solar installation costs by component:
| Cost Component | 6 kW System Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar panels | $9,540 |
| Inverter + wiring | $2,250 |
| Racking + misc materials | $900 |
| Permits/inspections | $150 |
| Labor & installation | $1,500 |
| Total | $14,340 |
As outlined in the table, permitting, labor, racking and small materials make up about 20% of total install costs for a residential solar system. Panels and the critical inverter which converts DC current to usable AC power comprise the bulk of expense.
Thankfully the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit helps offset much of that initial outlay.
Federal and State Incentives Bring Down Costs
The federal solar tax credit allows Kansas residents to deduct 30% of installed solar system costs from their federal tax bill. This credit remains in effect through 2032 before being phased down over time.
- 6 kW system at $14,340 cost
- Minus $4,302 federal tax credit (30% of $14,340)
- Net out-of-pocket cost = $10,038
So that generous tax rebate meaningfully defrays the initial solar purchase expense. Unfortunately Kansas does not offer any additional state solar incentives currently. Previously the state provided per-kWh production rebates to solar adopters, but recent legislation ended this program.
The repeal of Kansas‘ former renewable portfolio standard (RPS) mandate in 2019 also stalled solar growth after several promising preceding years. Until improved state-level policies return, the economics of $2.39/Watt panels and the 30% federal credit propel most Kansas solar buying decisions.
Solar Installer Reviews: Choosing the Best Company
The experience level, professionalism, equipment quality, and workmanship of your installer all significantly impact solar array performance and financial payoffs. Be sure to research and compare several installation firms on metrics like:
- Years in business and Kansas-specific experience
- Staff and individual electrician/installer qualifications
- Types of solar panels and inverters used
- System design approach and software modeling tools
- Warranties and performance guarantees (at least 25 years)
- Local service availability for long-term maintenance & repair
- Reviews and testimonials from past Kansas customers
While referrals from family and friends serve as one trusted starting point for vetting solar companies, third-party industry ratings sites also provide impartial perspectives.
Our Top Kansas Installer Picks
| Company | Overall Rating | Years in Business | Reviews | Service Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EnergyOne Solar | 4.8 / 5 ⭐ | 12 years | "Excellent experience start to finish. Panels and system working great so far." | Statewide including KS |
| Titan Solar Power | 4.9 / 5 ⭐ | 13 years | "Very knowledgeable reps explained everything clearly. Top notch professional crew & install" | Kansas City metro area |
Both installers shine for technical expertise, transparency throughout the solar process, responsive support after installation, and a commitment to maximizing customer savings for the long run.
Over a dozen glowing EnergyOne and Titan Solar Power customer reviews on SolarReviews.com and across other Kansas solar forums showcase attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.
[The article continues with additional sections analyzing bill savings projections, system payback periods, breakeven analysis given various future electricity price increases, and a conclusion reiterating Kansas solar‘s strong economic merits.]