If you live in Kansas, you may have wondered whether installing solar panels could be the right decision for you. And how do you even get started? It’s true that Kansas doesn’t have a great reputation in the solar energy department. You might also be wondering whether Kansas has any solar incentives, rebates, or tax credits you can take advantage of.
At KC Solar, we’re your solar experts, and we’re here to help you learn how to take advantage of any solar options available to you as a Kansas resident. Keep reading to learn about Kansas solar incentives and more.
All U.S. Residents Can Use the Solar Federal Solar Tax Credit
First up, some great news for all solar customers in the United States. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a way for homeowners and businesses to save on the costs of residential and commercial solar.
This federal credit was originally established through the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and was initially intended to last through the end of 2007. However, Congress has extended it multiple times since then.
All these years later, we’re still encouraging homeowners to take advantage of the ITC. That’s because, through the end of 2022, you’ll receive a tax credit of 26% of the cost of your solar panel system.
But if you don’t install your system before the end of this year, you’re still eligible for the tax credit. Though the value is going to drop, starting in 2023. You’ll only get a 22% tax credit, a 4% decrease in what you can save if you were to install in 2022.
Beyond 2023, it’s hard to say what will happen. As of now, in 2024 and beyond, only commercial solar will be eligible for a 10% credit. And residential systems will no longer qualify. Which means time is of the essence if you want to take advantage of this tax credit!
So, how does the tax credit work? Let’s say your solar system costs $10,000. If you install solar this year, you would pay $2,600 less in taxes this year thanks to the tax credit. If you wait until next year, that amount goes down to $2,200 saved. It all depends on the size of the system you install. The tax credit could make a huge difference in saving money.
Want to save as much as you can? If you’re in Kansas and want to install a solar panel system for your home, it’s time to get started so you can maximize your savings.
Update: With the passage of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, the tax credit changed to 30% through 2032. Which means there’s still time to install solar panels in Kansas and start saving.
Solar Incentives at the Local Level
Apart from the federal ITC, Kansas solar incentives are very limited compared to other states — like New York, Rhode Island, or even Iowa. Even Missouri offers a state solar rebate that is offered through utility companies. Unfortunately, this doesn’t exist in Kansas. But depending on where you live in Kansas, you may still be able to find additional solar incentives.
For example, in Overland Park, Kansas — which is just outside Kansas City, the city is offering a price reduction on building permits when solar or other forms of renewable energy are incorporated.
“Homeowners, landlords and builders can take advantage of a discount on a building permit for these projects, if they plan to incorporate these renewable energy readiness options into their buildings. Solar readiness projects on new homes qualify, and electric vehicle projects on new and existing homes qualify.
Building permits fees will be waived for homeowners and landlords who want to retrofit their homes with electric vehicle charging circuits. Builders can also purchase building permits at a reduced fee, if they construct their projects as solar-ready or electric-vehicle ready. That means they’ve prepared their projects for future installation of solar panels and electric vehicle charging.” — City of Overland Park, Kansas
It’s not always easy to find local incentives such as the one Overland Park has, but with a little bit of digging, you may be surprised at what you can find. At KC Solar, as your local Solar Experts in Kansas City, we’re always happy to help you interpret any local incentives you come across.
Other Benefits of Going Solar in Kansas
If the lack of state-specific solar incentives leaves you feeling discouraged, On top of the federal rebate and tax credit offered by your utility company, there are a few other benefits of going solar in Kansas.
For example, Kansas state legislature mandates that all solar homeowners in Kansas are exempt from property tax increases resulting from installing solar panels on their home. This includes residential solar arrays, with homeowners able to claim the exemption each year, indefinitely. While it won’t save you any money up front during your installation, it can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your system — which will be decades!
This is a major benefit, as it’s widely known that having a home solar system can substantially increase your home’s value. Which means that, if you someday decide to sell your home, you can cash in on the solar panels’ values even though you haven’t had to pay more in property taxes over the years.
Here’s another benefit of going solar in Kansas: KC Solar is committed to working with each and every one of our customers. At KC Solar, we offer $0 down solar loans. If you can qualify for a loan — and we have several options, even for low credit scores — then you don’t need to have the money today. We’re happy to work with you and get your solar system up and running.
Going Solar in Kansas? Let’s Talk
If you are looking for the best solar company in Kansas City, look no further than KC Solar. We’re here to answer all your questions about Kansas solar incentives, federal tax credits, and more. Allow us to be your local Kansas City solar panel installation experts.
Once you schedule a no-pressure site visit, our experts will help you understand what solar system specifications would be best for your home or business. We can also help you understand all your options, including the Evergy Solar Program, and our financing options, including $0 down loans.
KC Solar is the only local solar company in Kansas City with KC natives who own and operate the daily activities of the business. We are your Kansas City Solar Panel experts. And solar panel installation in Kansas City is our passion.
And be sure to download our Free Solar Panel Buying Guide for more information.
