Decided to go solar in Wyoming? With 5.53 hours of peak sunlight, Wyoming is in the Top 10 sunny states, which ensures a stable solar harvest, helping you to save on your electricity bills. And to save even more money, read our article on solar incentives in Wyoming.
Key takeaways
- Being in the Top 10 sunny states, Wyoming has lots of advantages for homeowners and businesses going solar. And with governmental help in the form of several clean energy incentives, rebates, renewable energy grants and loans your solar and solar water systems are eligible for it becomes even better. Read for more information.
- Federal Tax Credit offers a 30% tax credit on the total cost of solar panel system installation. It is a great help for all from small residential systems in rural areas to large commercial projects.
- All investor-owned utility services and electric cooperatives must offer net metering. Utilities may use kWh credits or net billing.
- The Solar Rights Act states that access to sunshine is a property right. Right exists for unobstructed sunlight between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Right is established upon issuance of a solar permit. Local governments handle the permit process.
Save 30% of your PV system cost with Federal Solar Tax Credit
The US government wants more people to go solar: it’s a modern and green way of getting energy. This is why the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) program was developed. It allows American citizens to claim 30% of the cost of their installation as an income tax deduction. The cost here is not only solar panels but also shipping, installation expenses and more. For example, if your system overall made you spend $10,000, the government returns you $3,000. To claim the ITC, complete all the necessary forms and submit them when filing your taxes.
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Get quotesSell excess electricity with net metering Program
In Wyoming all investor-owned utilities and electric cooperatives must offer net metering. Net metering allows residential solar owners to put the excess electricity into the utility grid instead of storing it with batteries.
The law doesn’t specify what kind of system the companies should use. Some give the customers standard kWh credits, while others prefer net billing – a system that uses different rates for the energy you buy and the energy you sell. The utility pays a bit less for your energy then they charge for theirs. When you sell your solar power to the grid, you receive credits that can be used to offset your next bills. The value of the credits is calculated by the utility company.
Rocky Mountain Power is Wyoming’s largest utility with more than 140,000 customers in the state. The company uses kWh credit system, allowing its customers to sell electricity at full retail price. All unused credits are bought by the company at the beginning of each year, based on winter and summer rates. Rocky Mountain power requires its customers to install a lockable switch between their system and the grid. It must be positioned in such a way as to allow for unlimited access by the company’s electricians. This measure is meant to enhance safety in case of emergency.
Wyrulec Co. credits its customers according to its avoided cost rate. The company will make a payout if the customer has credits at the end of the year. Wyrulec Co. also requires an installation of a lockable switch on a customer’s property.
Protect your solar panels from shade with Solar Rights Act
In Wyoming, access to sunshine is considered a property right. It is defined as a line-of-sight path from a solar device to the sun, allowing the radiation to hit the collectors directly. To check if the right can be attached to your solar panels, imagine a 10-foot wall around your property on a winter solstice day. If your modules get any shade from the wall during the day, they don’t qualify.
The right comes into existence upon the issuance of a solar permit. The task of developing a mechanism for getting a permit lies wholly with local governments, so contact them for details. Keep in mind that the law is only valid between 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., when the sun is most active. Outside of this window, the rules may be infringed without compensation.
Top 10 myths about solar
Let's debunk some common myths surrounding solar panels, so you can make an informed decision about this increasingly popular energy source. Many misconceptions can deter homeowners, but the reality is often much more positive.
1. Myth: Solar panels only work in extremely sunny climates
While it's true that direct, intense sunlight maximizes solar panel output, they don't solely rely on it. Solar panels harness energy from daylight, not just direct sunlight. This means they generate electricity even on cloudy or overcast days, albeit at a reduced rate. Moreover, modern solar panels are designed to perform efficiently in a wide range of temperatures. Intriguingly, cooler temperatures can sometimes enhance their performance. Therefore, regardless of whether you live in a region known for its sunny skies or one that experiences frequent cloud cover, solar energy can still be a viable and beneficial option.
2. Myth: Solar energy systems are prohibitively expensive
The initial investment in a solar energy system can appear substantial. However, it's crucial to consider the long-term financial advantages. The cost of solar panels has significantly decreased in recent years, making them more accessible than ever before. Furthermore, numerous government incentives, tax credits, and rebates are available to help offset the upfront expenses. Over the system's lifespan, which typically spans 25 years or more, the savings generated by reduced or eliminated electricity bills often outweigh the initial cost. Grid-tied systems can also allow for net metering, where you sell excess energy back to the utility company, generating credits that further reduce your electricity bills.
3. Myth: Solar panels require constant and extensive maintenance
Solar panels are remarkably low-maintenance. Their solid-state design, with no moving parts, minimizes the risk of mechanical failures. Typically, the primary maintenance involves occasional cleaning to remove accumulated dirt, dust, or debris that might obstruct sunlight. In many cases, natural rainfall is sufficient for cleaning. Moreover, modern solar panels are engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, including hail, snow, and strong winds, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
4. Myth: Solar panels will cause damage to my roof
When installed by qualified and experienced professionals, solar panels pose minimal risk to your roof's integrity. Reputable installers utilize secure mounting systems and proper sealing techniques to prevent leaks or other potential damage. In some instances, solar panels can even provide an additional layer of protection against the elements, extending the roof's lifespan.
5. Myth: Solar panels are not efficient enough to justify the investment
Solar panel efficiency has made significant strides in recent years. While it's true that no solar panel can achieve 100% efficiency, modern panels can convert a substantial portion of sunlight into usable electricity. Ongoing advancements in solar technology are continually improving efficiency rates, making solar energy an increasingly viable and effective power source.
6. Myth: Installing solar panels means going completely off-grid
For most homeowners, installing solar panels means connecting to a grid-tied system. This allows you to draw electricity from the grid when your solar panels are not producing enough, such as during nighttime or periods of low sunlight. Conversely, when your solar panels generate excess energy, you can often sell it back to the grid through net metering programs, creating a symbiotic relationship with your local utility company. True off-grid systems require robust battery storage solutions, which can significantly increase the overall cost.
7. Myth: The solar panel installation process is complex and time-consuming
The installation process is generally straightforward, particularly when handled by experienced solar installers. From obtaining the necessary permits to installing the panels and connecting them to your electrical system, most residential solar installations can be completed within a few days. Professional installers handle the complexities, making the transition smooth for the homeowner.
8. Myth: Solar panels are aesthetically unappealing
While older solar panels might have been bulky and visually intrusive, modern panels are sleek and aesthetically pleasing. Many manufacturers offer options that blend seamlessly with various architectural styles. Ground-mounted solar systems also offer a viable alternative for homeowners concerned about rooftop aesthetics.
9. Myth: Renters cannot benefit from solar energy
While traditional rooftop solar installations are typically reserved for homeowners, renters can still access the benefits of solar energy through community solar programs. These programs allow individuals to subscribe to a share of a larger solar farm, receiving credits on their electricity bills for their portion of the energy produced.
10. Myth: Selling a home with solar panels is difficult
Studies have shown that homes equipped with solar panels often command higher resale values and sell faster than comparable homes without them. Solar panels are increasingly viewed as a valuable asset, enhancing a home's appeal to environmentally conscious and cost-conscious buyers.
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SHOP SOLAR PANELSYears of experience in translation and a love of nature help Julia find the right words to encourage going solar. She joined the team in 2023 and is happy to make her contribution to a greener future.
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