Kentucky is located in the southeast region of the United States. With an area expanding over 40,408 sq mi, and an abundance of sunshine throughout the state, Kentucky is an ideal state for the production of solar energy. On average, Kentucky receives 4.5 sun hours each day. The solar insolation profile for Kentucky is similar to Germany which is one of the leading producers of solar energy worldwide.
Kentucky has an abundance of coal reserves and it is the fifth-largest coal-producing state in the USA. However, with rising concern for environmental protection, Kentucky is making an effort to switch to cleaner sources of energy production.
Since 2016, the rate of solar installation has been increasing consistently in the state of Kentucky. This rapid increase can be attributed to technological improvements, environmental awareness, solar-friendly legislation, and financial incentives introduced by the state. The potential of solar energy can be estimated from the fact that if photovoltaic panels are installed in one-fifth of the state’s area, they can produce enough electricity to power the entire state.
The following facts reveal the state of solar in Kentucky in a glimpse:
- Solar Installed (MW): 68.3
- National Ranking: 47th (45th in 2020)
- Percentage of State’s Electricity from Solar: 0.15%
- Solar Jobs: 1,249
- Solar Companies in State: 40 (11 Manufacturers, 16 Installers/Developers, 13 Others)
- Total Solar Investment in State: 137 million
- Prices have fallen 11% over the last 5 years
- Growth Projection and Ranking: 910 MW over the next 5 years (ranks 34th)
- Number Of Installations: 2,327
Solar Friendly Legislations in Kentucky
The following solar-friendly legislation has increased the financial viability of solar energy in Kentucky:
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
According to the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), if you install a solar system on your property in 2020 and beyond, 26% of the cost of the entire system will be discounted. The discount will apply to the total sum which includes, the cost of equipment, labor and permitting, etc.
Kentucky Solar Rebates
Kentucky does not have state-sanctioned rebates for solar panel installation, however individual manufacturers offer rebates of their own. LG is one of the leading brands to offer solar rebates of upto $600 for the solar equipment purchased from them.
Favorable Net Metering Policy
The state of Kentucky has a favorable net metering policy according to which utilities have to give full credit for all the excess electricity produced by the solar system.
As a result of these incentives, the cost of solar energy has reduced by 80% in the last 10 years. The current cost of electricity production is $2.34/watt.
Need For Solar Panel Disposal Solution
The rapid proliferation of photovoltaic technology in Kentucky also raises the alarming question about the decommissioning and disposal of end-of-life solar panels. Most experts agree that recycling old solar panels is the most cost-effective and eco-friendly waste disposal option for solar waste.
If you are looking for decommissioning or large-scale solar panel recycling solutions in Kentucky, contact We Recycle Solar. We provide recycling solutions for solar panels, batteries, and other equipment. Our processes are safe, efficient, and compliant with all federal and state laws.
Looking for decommissioning or large-scale Kentucky solar panel recycling solutions?
Unless otherwise noted, all data from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight