The Hospitality State embraces new solar energy

The state of solar in Mississippi

When it comes to sunshine, the Hospitality State isn’t lacking! Mississippi exceeds the national average of 205 sunny days by 11 days.^*bestplaces.net, "Climate in Mississippi" (accessed July 14, 2021) https://www.bestplaces.net/climate/state/mississippi For that reason, it’s no surprise that roughly 82% of the structures in the state have the viability to be sources of solar energy.^*Google, Project Sunroof data explorer (November 2018)

Though the state is notorious for underutilizing its solar energy potential, its government is attempting to embrace clean energy. The state has invested $354 million into solar energy,^*SEIA, “Mississippi Solar” (accessed July 15, 2021. https://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/mississippi-solar with a growth projection of 873 MW from 318.5 MW within five years.

How much solar energy does Mississippi produce?

Currently, 0.68% of Mississippi’s electricity comes from solar energy,^*SEAI, “Mississippi Solar” (accessed July 15, 2021). https://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/mississippi-solar which is enough to power 34,294 households. Mississippi got its first solar power facilities in 2017, but its clean energy production had tripled by 2020.

What are the advantages of going solar in Mississippi?

In addition to being a clean source of renewable energy, solar energy influences the environment positively. The more that residents and businesses use clean energy, the less dependence the state will have on fossil fuels that add to harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Solar panels for homes produce no pollution and are easy to maintain.

Financially, it makes sense to invest in solar energy. Homeowners with solar systems can experience a significant decline in utility costs by generating their own power. Over time, the system will pay for itself and begin to generate costs savings for homeowners. The average payback period in Mississippi is about 14 years, with a 25-year net profit of around $17,000,^*SolarNation, “Solar Power in Mississippi” (accessed July 15, 2021). https://www.solar-nation.org/mississippi not including rebates and other incentives.

Even with the initial out-of-pocket cost for equipment and installation, solar systems have a high return on investment.

How much does solar cost in Mississippi?

The cost of a home solar system can vary, even in the same state, due to a range of factors. These include:

• Quality of the solar panels

• Solar equipment and installation type

• Roof condition

• Household energy consumption

• Interconnection cost to the local power grid

To help you understand the price of going solar in your area, we’ve analyzed SunPower price quotes, as well as quotes gathered by third-party sources, for thousands of homeowners across the country.

In Mississippi, we found that the average investment to own a 5 kW solar system is $13,650, or in other words, $2.77 per watt—and that’s before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.

Mississippi residents and business owners wishing to convert to or integrate solar power into their properties have access to the federal solar tax credit. Residents can claim the 30% tax credit on federal income taxes to cover a portion of their solar system installation costs, as long as the installation is complete within the corresponding tax year.^*Tax credits and incentives are subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.

Net metering is another way to save more money with solar in Mississippi.^*The availability of net metering varies by location and is subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information. DSIRE, “Net Metering” (March 12, 2021). https://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/5841/net-metering This program allows residents with solar systems that generate more energy than the property uses to interconnect with the community power grid. In return for adding clean energy to the local electrical grid, residents will receive credits toward their utility bills. Since Mississippi does not have statewide net metering standards, net metering is at the discretion of the utility companies.

What’s the best way to go solar in Mississippi?

Though solar systems can generate substantial energy for homeowners in Mississippi, each household will have specific needs and considerations that affect which panels will work best for them. Your home’s roof condition, curb appeal, energy consumption, and budget all play a role in your clean energy needs and capabilities.

Your choice of solar provider will also affect how effectively you go solar. Not all providers have the same skills, expertise, and access to high-efficiency solar panels, so it’s essential for you to find a reputable, licensed, and experienced solar company.

A reputable solar company should provide you with a free consultation to thoroughly assess your needs, then design a custom solar system for your home as they help you navigate your transition into solar power. This should include access to world-class solar systems, storage options, and flexible financing.

If you’re ready to get started, we’re happy to help. Simply request a free consultation with SunPower below and we'll follow up with a quick call to schedule a time. You can also call us directly at (800) 786-7693.