Kentucky has one of the lowest average costs per watt for solar power, a bonus to those who value clean, green energy usage. However, it is currently near the bottom in terms of solar capacity installed, ranking 44th in the nation, with only enough energy to power 4,758 homes. Solar panel installation prices have fallen, making now a good time to go green with solar power in Kentucky.
Kentucky’s Solar
Report Card
To determine a grade for each state, our researchers and solar experts analyzed data on crucial solar-advancement criteria from the following sources:
- Rebates, Tax Credits, and Tax Exemptions from Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency;
- Electricity Rates from the U.S. Energy Information Administration;
- Renewable Energy Policy from NC Clean Energy Technology Center;
- Interconnection Ease from Freeing The Grid;
- Photovoltaic Potential from the Energy Department
We determined a rank from one to 10 for each state in each category. We then combined the scores with the following weights and assigned an overall grade for each state. Our goal is to encourage those considering solar for their homes to get a basic understanding of solar potential in their areas and discover the best opportunities for clean energy available.
Incentives & Rebates, 40%
Electricity Rate, 15%
Renewable Energy Policy, 30%
Interconnection Ease, 5%
Photovoltaic Potential, 10%
Kentucky’s Electricity Cost vs. U.S. Averages
Electricity in Kentucky is inexpensive at just more $0.10 per kWh for residential customers, below the national average. In 2018, the state had the seventh-lowest average electricity price in the nation. In addition, prices have remained relatively consistent over the last few years, so consumers don’t have a lot of motivation to go solar. Kentucky primarily uses coal for its energy needs, making up 75 percent of the state’s net electricity generation. Not surprisingly, it’s also the fifth-largest coal producer in the nation.
Cost of Residential Electricity
Data from U.S. Energy Information Administration
*as of Q3 2015
Kentucky Resource Library:
Rebates, Policies, Credits
Kentucky Solar Policies & Incentives
Because of its wide use of coal and low energy costs overall, Kentucky doesn’t have many incentives for using solar. However, some do exist. Tax credits and loans at the state and federal levels allow consumers to receive rebates and financial assistance as they switch to solar power. Find out more about some of the policies and incentives at work in Kentucky.
REBATES/INCENTIVES
None
GCEA provides loans for the installation of solar panels or other clean energy technology, allowing a maximum loan of $20,000 for qualifying homeowners.
None for commercial specifically
POLICIES
Solar easements can be obtained through writing to ensure those with solar panels have access to direct sunlight.
Net MeteringNet metering allows customers who use alternative energy generators of up to 30 kW capacity to receive credit from their utility company for unused energy their generators produce.
Interconnection StandardsThese rules aim to simplify connection standards for electric suppliers operating from solar, wind, biomass and hydroelectric power.
None for residential specifically
None for commercial specifically
TAX CREDITS
None
None for residential specifically
Companies who build or renovate facilities to use renewable energy systems can receive a 100 percent state corporate income tax credit, limited liability entity tax credits and other reimbursements, up to $50,000. The minimum company investment amount must be $1,000,000.
EXEMPTIONS
None
None for residential specifically
For new or expanding companies, including renewable energy production companies, this act offers a refund of Kentucky sales and use tax paid by qualified companies for building and construction materials permanently incorporated as an improvement to real property. It is also available for Kentucky sales and use tax refunds for eligible equipment.
This program provides income tax credits and wage assessments to qualified new and existing companies, including renewable energy production companies.
Solar Panel Companies & Installers in Kentucky
There are only a few solar panel providers in Kentucky, which makes narrowing them down easier. This list of solar companies can get you started.
Earthwell is a full-service energy company that teams with public and private institutions to manage energy resources. The company offers solar PV and solar hot water systems and installation.
Where it operatesLouisville, KY
Year of opening2009
Solar Energy Solutions is a certified woman-owned business and is the state’s oldest renewable energy company. Solar Energy Solutions offers both solar electric and solar hot water services.
Where it operatesLexington, KY
Year of opening2006
Kentucky Solar Information Resources
There are resources available for Kentucky residents to find out more about using solar power in the state.
This branch of the Kentucky state government provides information to consumers about going solar along with resources on solar costs and financing.
This website offers information about sustainable energy solutions for residents of Kentucky.
This association of solar professionals and enthusiasts aims to advance solar use and other renewable energy across the state. Founded in 2007, it is an official chapter of the American Solar Energy Society.
Find out about bills and committees supporting solar power and other renewable resources.
Learn about solar incentives and credits in your area and receive an online estimate for a solar unit.