Oklahoma is the 28th most populous state in the United States. Oklahoma is blessed with various natural features, such as mountains and forests. Due to its favorable geographical location, Oklahoma receives an abundance of sunshine throughout the year. On a yearly basis, Oklahoma has over 234 days of sunshine. In other terms, this equates to more than 3,000 sunny hours per year. This figure is far greater than the yearly insolation of Texas and California.
Due to the bountiful sunshine Oklahoma receives, it has enormous potential to produce solar energy through a photovoltaic system. Among all States of the USA, Oklahoma occupies 6th position in terms of its potential for solar energy generation. However, Oklahoma’s installed solar capacity stands at a meager 89.3 MW, and its national ranking in terms of solar production is 45th.
Even if Oklahoma utilizes its potential for rooftop solar, 44.1% of Oklahoma’s current electric needs can be sufficiently met. However, due to the lack of state-based incentives, the state of solar energy is quite dismal in Oklahoma. In addition, the state-mandated Renewable Portfolio Standard ended in 2015 and has not been revived since then.
The current cost of installing a solar power system in Oklahoma is $3-$5 per watt. In addition, Oklahoma has the lowest electricity rates, another reason for the lack of progress in solar energy.
The only solar-friendly incentive available to the businesses and residents of Oklahoma is the Federal solar tax credit. Previously, the amount for tax credit was set at 26%. However, after 2020, the tax credit percentage has been reduced to 22%.
Net metering is available for systems generating up to 25kW of solar power. Unfortunately, the utilities in Oklahoma are not mandated by the state to purchase electricity produced by the solar systems, which means that the net metering policy of Oklahoma is pretty ineffective.
The following facts present an accurate picture of the state of solar energy in Oklahoma:
- Solar Installed (MW): 89.3
- National Ranking: 45th (40th in 2021)
- Percentage of State’s Electricity from Solar: 0.17%
- Solar Jobs: 927
- Solar Companies in State: 26 (3 Manufacturers, 12Installers/Developers, 11 Others)
- Total Solar Investment in State: 159 million
- Prices have fallen 4% over the last five years
- Growth Projection and Ranking: 1,150 MW over the next five years (ranks 30th)
- Number Of Installations: 3,067
Need for Solar Panel Recycling Solutions in Oklahoma
The progression of solar energy has been quite slow in Oklahoma. However, decreasing costs, technological advancements, and an increased focus on renewable energy will lead to the faster proliferation of solar energy in Oklahoma in the future.
However, the growth 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 Oklahoma, 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 Oklahoma solar panel recycling solutions?
Unless otherwise noted, all data from SEIA/GTM Research U.S. Solar Market Insight