While Oklahoma averages 3,089 hours of sunlight each year, solar faces strong competition in the Sooner State from both fossil fuels and other renewable energy sources. Nationwide, Oklahoma ranks 45th in installed solar capacity with just 36.85 MWs, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. However, residents determined to make an environmental difference, or to change policy as a whole, may benefit the most from information and resources on solar panels in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma’s Solar Panel
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%
Residential Electricity Costs in Oklahoma
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), residential electricity rates in Oklahoma have increased since 2005 but are still below the national average at around $0.106 per kWh. In 2017, Oklahoma was one of the top 10 states in the nation for crude oil and natural gas production as well as wind power generation, accounting for about six percent of energy production. The state met its renewable energy goal of having 15 percent of total installed generation capacity be from renewable sources by 2015. This goal has not been updated since. Oklahoma also offers rebates and incentives for energy efficiency since it can be used towards its renewable energy goals.
Cost of Oklahoma Residential Electricity
Data from U.S. Energy Information Administration
*as of Q3 2015
Oklahoma Library
of Solar Resources
Incentives & Policies
Despite being an energy powerhouse, Oklahoma has been criticized for its lack of solar-friendly policies, incentives, and legislation. While the state offers many rebates, tax credits and incentives for energy-efficient changes, including geothermal heat pumps, solar screens for doors and attic insulation, it offers virtually none for solar projects, either residential or commercial. Oklahoma residents, however, do have options when looking to finance a solar system that can result in a positive return on investment. Oklahomans are eligible for the federal government’s EnergyStar program, which includes solar electric systems and water heaters, and other programs, such as a home equity line of credit.
REBATES/INCENTIVES
Oklahoma has authorized county governments to create Property-Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing programs for commercial and multi-family residential projects. Borrowed amount typically repaid through a special assessment on the project. Not every county offers PACE financing; check with your county offices.
None for residential specifically.
None for commercial specifically.
POLICIES
The Oklahoma Energy Security Act of 2010 established Oklahoma’s Renewable Portfolio Standards and calls for 15 percent of the total installed generation capacity in the state to be derived from renewable sources. Unlike many other states, Oklahoma’s renewable energy goal is voluntary.
Net MeteringNet metering is available to all customer classes and systems up to 100 kW. No limits are set on the amount of net-metered capacity and liability insurance is not required on new systems. Utilities are not required to purchase the net excess generation. Customers can ask the utilities to purchase excess generation, but the decision is up to them.
Solar and Wind AccessThis law states that access to the airspace for wind or solar projects above a property must be arranged with the property owner.
None for residential specifically.
None for commercial specifically.
TAX CREDITS
None for residential/commercial specifically.
None for residential specifically.
Producers of electric power that use renewable energy resources from a zero-emission facility in Oklahoma are eligible for a state income tax credit.
Tax Exemption
None for residential/commercial specifically.
None for residential specifically.
None for commercial specifically.
Oklahoma’s Solar Panel Installers & Contractors
Delta Energy and Design does custom solar designs and installation, including carports and pergolas, as well as off-grid hybrid systems.
Where it operatesNorman
Year of opening2013
Gann Electric offers solar design and installation for residential and commercial projects.
Where it operatesTopeka, KS
Year of opening2001
Ion Solar provides grid-tie solar electric, off-grid solar, hot water and pool heating.
Where it operatesTulsa
Year of opening1983
Lawrence Wind and Solar completes residential and commercial projects.
Where it operatesLarned, KS
Year of opening2006
SunCity Solar offers residential and commercial solar projects, solar water and pool heating.
Where it operatesSherman, TX
Year of opening1983
Harvest Solar and Wind Power provides residential solar systems, including hot water and pool heating, off-grid and grid-tie systems, and attic fans.
Where it operatesTulsa
Year of opening2002
More Oklahoma Solar Resources
Explore energy-related hot topics as well as regulations for electricity rates and Oklahoma’s three investor-owned public utilities that provide retail electric service to most of the state. Find the OCC’s report on the Oklahoma Energy Securities Act as well as utility information and oil and gas reports.
Track pending legislation affecting solar energy, including live legislative sessions; locate and contact individual legislators; and stay up to date on current legislative issues across the state.
The State Energy Office’s goals include advancing energy efficiencies, developing renewable resources and reducing dependence on foreign oil. Find a variety of information on state government energy programs, policy, projects, energy-saving strategies and energy-related statistics.
The database is operated by the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. Search this public clearinghouse to find specific solar energy incentives in Oklahoma and across the United States.
Explore official energy statistics, including data on electricity supply and demand, from the U.S. government. Find data and analysis on energy resources, including renewable resources, coal, natural gas and petroleum as well as information on tribal lands’ resources.
Find information from Oklahoma Gas & Electric about saving energy and money as well as solar facts and information specific to Oklahoma solar farms.