North Dakota is located in the Upper Midwestern region of the USA. It experiences chilly winters but equally sunny and hot summers as well. In terms of area, it is the 19th largest state. However, it is also the fourth most sparsely populated state in the USA. Known for its huge swaths of plains and farmlands, North Dakota’s potential for solar energy is immense yet solar power remains a hugely underutilized resource in this state.
In terms of solar generation, it occupies 51st place among all states of the USA. Solar power’s contribution to the state’s energy mix is estimated at 0.0%. However, this grim situation can be changed if the true potential of solar energy is tapped sufficiently.
North Dakota receives an abundance of sunshine throughout the year. On average, it experiences 201 sunny days each year. This figure is close to the national average of 205 sunny days per annum. To make the most of this bountiful resource, North Dakota needs to introduce solar-friendly legislation and financial incentives to make solar power more affordable for businesses and residents alike.
In 2020, the state’s electricity rate was $0.10 kW. However, a major hike in the electricity rate is expected due to the imposition of additional regulations for high-carbon energy produced from the burning of fossil fuels. This increase in the costs of electricity in the foreseeable future makes solar energy a more economically feasible source of energy.
Even though North Dakota lags behind on solar-friendly legislation, the following incentives are available if you decide to opt for solar energy in North Dakota:
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
- According to the Investment Tax Credit, you can redeem up to 26% of the cost of your solar power system in the form of a federal tax credit.
Net Metering
- In North Dakota, net metering is applicable for systems up to 100 kW in size. The state does not have an official net metering policy, however, investor-owned utilities can offer net metering to all their customers.
Property Tax Exemption
- If you install a solar system at your premises, your property will be exempted from an increase in property tax despite the fact that the solar system will increase the worth of your property by manifolds.
This tax exemption is applicable for five years from the time the solar system has been installed.
The following statistics reveal the state of solar energy in North Dakota:
- Solar Installed (MW): 1.6
- National Ranking: 51st (50th in 2021)
- Percentage of State’s Electricity from Solar: 0.01%
- Solar Jobs: 211
- Solar Companies in State: 8 (3 Manufacturers, 1 Installer/Developers, 4 Others)
- Total Solar Investment in State: 4 million
- Prices have fallen 4% over the last 5 years
- Growth Projection and Ranking: 166 MW over the next 5 years (ranks 48th)
- Number Of Installations: 34
Need for Solar Panel Recycling Solutions in North Dakota
Despite the slow proliferation of solar energy in North Dakota initially, the capacity of installed solar power is increasing gradually. Soon North Dakota will catch up with other states in terms of power generation through photovoltaic systems.
However, the rapid proliferation of photovoltaic technology 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 of solar systems or large-scale solar panel recycling solutions in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota solar panel recycling solutions?
Unless otherwise noted, all data from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight