Solar Panels Cost 14k-24k in Hardin County, KY | November, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $14k-$24k in Hardin County, KY | November, 2024

High Power Bills?

Reduce or replace your electricity bill with solar

How much do solar panels cost in Hardin County, KY in 2024?

To go solar in Hardin County, KY averages out to $3.48 per watt in November, 2024.

According to the cost per watt, you can conclude that for every 1 kW (1000 watts) of solar generation capacounty will cost you $3,480 for installation. After receiving the 30% federal tax credit, you can expect to spend about $12,180 for a 5 kW panel install in Hardin County. Your electricity consumption levels could need a larger system.

On the left-hand side, you can choose your county to find out the typical roof size and the maximum capacity for solar panels in residences in your area. The following outline, below, highlights the costs, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system installed in your county.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Hardin County: $12,180US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Hardin County: 7 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Hardin County: $19,438US Average: $16,169

Solar Potential in Hardin County

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Hardin County.

Roof size 804sq. ft.
Capacity 11.25kW DC
Electricity 13.4kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Hardin County, KY & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

For Hardin County households, the average monthly kWh usage is 1,190, with an average electric bill of 153.49. Bear in mind that this figure encompasses both apartments and smaller homes, which generally require reduced energy.

The rate of electricity in Hardin County, KY, on average, is 12.9¢ per kWh in November 2024.

You'll spend $24,360 on a 10 kW solar panel installation after taking the 30% federal income tax credit into consideration.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Average solar panel costs by system size in Hardin County

On your left, we have provided a detailed cost breakdown for the different solar panel system sizes installed in Hardin County. As expected, a bigger solar system requires a greater initial expense, but it also translates to increased electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.

In the calculator located to the right and below, you will find a breakdown of solar panel costs and benefits, calculated with an average $153.49 electric bill for Hardin County. Just change the $153.49 to your typical electricity bill for more accurate results.

System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,138 a year
Est. Price
$14,616
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 8,752 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $95
  • Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 7.9 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 363 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 19,564 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,327 a year
Est. Price
$17,052
Savings from a 7kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 10,211 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $111
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 9.22 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 424 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 22,825 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,517 a year
Est. Price
$19,488
Savings from a 8kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 11,669 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $126
  • Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 10.54 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 484 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 26,086 mi less a year
System Size 9kW
Roof Size Min. space required
644 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,707 a year
Est. Price
$21,924
Savings from a 9kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 13,128 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $142
  • Full payback in 12 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 11.86 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 545 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 29,347 mi less a year
System Size 10kW
Roof Size Min. space required
715 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,896 a year
Est. Price
$24,360
Savings from a 10kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 14,586 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $153
  • Full payback in 13 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 12.75 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 586 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 31,572 mi less a year

Hardin County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

Between 80% and 100% of your solar energy or wind turbine installation costs may be covered by the REAP Grant if you own a rural small business or farm. If you believe yourself eligible, we recommend using our REAP Grant eligibility tool to confirm your qualification.

Most residents can take advantage of a 30% federal income tax credit for residential solar, which makes it a feasible option in various areas of the United States. In addition, numerous state and local programs work to further encourage the adoption of solar power.

Different utilities and government organizations in Kentucky have 6 solar rebate and incentive programs.

Solar incentives in KY

Tax Exemption for Large-Scale Renewable Energy Projects

Value:Varies

Beginning in 2007, companies operating in Kentucky may be entitled to corporate sales or income tax exemptions on new energy efficiency or renewable energy investments. A complete sales tax exemption may apply to any materials or equipment a company uses to make improvements. Certain employees whose jobs were created as part of the improvements may write off a 4% wage assessment on their own income taxes. A minimum investment of $1 million is required. New solar facilities should be rated for at least 50 KW, while systems using other renewable technology should be rated for at least 1 MW. Additional information is available from the Think Kentucky website.

On-Farm Energy Efficiency Grant Program

Value:Varies

The Office of Agricultural Policy, a unit of the office of the Kentucky governor, oversees the County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP). Farmers may be eligible for program grants to fund energy efficiency improvements. Eligible projects for grant funding include new implements, insulation/weatherization, lighting, HVAC, windows, roofing, and smart thermostats. New solar thermal/PV systems and wind turbines may also be eligible. Equipment and building materials must meet certain state efficiency standards. Interested farmers may apply at any time and will be considered for the upcoming program year. Additional information is available from the OAP website.

Net Metering

Value:Varies

Kentucky requires private electrical utilities in the Commonwealth to collect renewable energy credits through net metering arrangements with their customers. Any solar, wind, biomass, or other renewable energy system rated for under 45 kW should have a bidirectional meter equipped to measure net excess generation (NEG) sent back to the grid. Customers will be compensated at a rate set by the state utility regulator. As of 2021, the rate per kilowatt hour is 9.746 cents. Systems entering a net metering contract must comply with certain IEEE and UL standards. Utilities reserve the right to restrict NEG exports to keep the grid stable. Additional information is available from the Kentucky Public Service Commission website.

Incentives for Energy Independence

Value:Varies

Various tax incentives are available in Kentucky to encourage renewable adoption research and adoption in the Commonwealth. New renewable generation farms, such as those using solar, wind, or biomass technology, may be totally exempt from state income tax, entity tax, and sales/use tax. Employees maintaining the systems may be entitled to tax credits equal to a 4% wage assessment on employers. Exemptions or special assessments are determined on a case-by-case basis and will last for up to 25 years. Certain administrative fees payable to the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority may apply. Additional information is available from the Think Kentucky website.

Energy Efficiency Loans for State Government Agencies

Value:Varies

The Green Bank of Kentucky (GBKY) received seed funding from the 2009 federal stimulus package. Currently, the Bank offers revolving loans to commonwealth government agencies for sustainability projects. Agencies may select from three different loan options. In each case, repaid principal will immediately "revolve" to support subsequent borrowers. SELF loans may fund any energy efficiency improvements or renewable energy investments that will reduce consumption by 20%. Available principal ranges from $50K to a maximum of $225K. Hybrid loans offer principal from $50K to $600K. These loans require energy audits before project work begins, the cost of which may be covered by loan funds. Agencies have the burden of procuring contractors and new equipment/materials. ESPC loans are designed for comprehensive or large-scale industrial improvements. Loan principal starts at $600K with no maximum. The applicant must use a recognized Energy Service Company or Energy Savings Performance Company for the work. Additional information is available from the GBKY website.

Interconnection Standards

Value:Varies

Distributed generation and interconnection have been standardized by the Kentucky Public Service Commission since 2009. Each energy system connected to the commonwealth grid will be assigned to a numerical "level" based on rated capacity. Systems at each level must follow recognized standards such as those set by IEEE or UL. Interconnection fees and application review turnaround will depend on the system's level. Customers must carry at least minimum liability insurance coverage on their energy system, and they may be required to install disconnect switches or other safety features by their utility. However, they will own any renewable energy credits they generate and may sell them to the utility at their discretion.

Are solar panels worth it in Hardin County, KY?

For those in Hardin County planning to stay in their homes past the payback period of their solar system, solar panels make perfect sense. Having a 5 kW solar system in Hardin County, KY can potentially save you approximately $24,657.6 over a span of 20 years, with an average break even point of 7 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Hardin County, KY

Besides missing out on the previously mentioned savings, not having solar panels or any backup energy system leaves you totally reliant on your electric utility for power. As demonstrated by recent news, total dependence on your utility isn't always the most favorable situation.

Normally, customers in Hardin County encounter around 0.78 outages. Typically, outages have an average duration of 77.4 minutes. However, during significant events such as hurricanes, planned maintenance, or overloaded power grids, these times can drastically increase.

Take a look at the component below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Hardin County.

Regardless of whether a backup battery is there or not, a solar panel system could reduce the pressure of potential future outages.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Hardin County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

What impacts the cost of solar panels in Hardin County, KY?

Your Energy Needs - Even though larger solar panel systems have a higher initial cost, the cost per watt declines. Many consumers find it advantageous to install a system that can generate enough electricity to offset the entirety of their electric bill. This math makes the most sense for optimal savings.

Make & Model - Just like any other product, solar panels and mounting equipment are available in a variety of makes and models. The potential brand preferences of your chosen installer make it crucial to pick a recommended contractor. Opting for better quality equipment usually provides a more satisfying long-term experience for the buyer.

Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels have become the industry standard, and for good reason. They are costlier but generate more energy. Most professionals in solar installation work with panels crafted from this material.

Your Property - Each property and home has its own characteristics. Factors such as trees, sloping terrain, or additional considerations can make the installation more challenging. Using satellite images, most solar installers these days can evaluate your home and incorporate these considerations into the preliminary cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Various wages are paid to employees by various companies, and these expenses are transferred to the consumers. Businesses paying higher wages typically get better reviews for their work and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Depending on the area, local permitting and utility interconnection fees will influence the cost of your installation. Reliable local installers will build these figures into your first estimates to eliminate any surprises.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Who are the best solar installers in Hardin County?

YellowLite

Cleveland, OH(216) 333-1364

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Core Development Group

(201) 825-2195

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Solgen Power

Pasco, WA(855) 709-1181

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Solar Alliance Southeast

Knoxville, TN(865) 309-4674

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Appalachian Renewable Power Systems

Stewart CDP, OH(740) 498-0498

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Power Home Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Dividend Finance

Cincinnati, OH(415) 805-7000

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Silver Sun Solar

Deltona, FL(407) 832-42452

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Harvest Solar

Jackson, MI(888) 907-6527

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

City Electric Supply

Dallas, TX(866) 634-9853

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

PowerHome Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Empire Solar Group

Salt Lake City, UT(800) 467-4562

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Icon Solar

Milford, OH(513) 396-7777

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Hardin County, KY Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • The cost per watt for solar panels in Hardin County, KY during November of 2024 averages $3.48/W. A 5 kW solar panel system will cost you around $12,180 in Hardin County, KY after the federal tax credit is applied.
  • At present, there are 6 rebates and incentives available to Kentucky residents from various utility and government programs. Furthermore, the majority of people qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
  • While cash payments offer the most savings, there are now many financing options for solar panels that are also advantageous. Information about financing options is typically detailed in initial quotes provided by installers.
  • Yes, the average time to recoup the cost of 5 kW solar panels in Hardin County, KY is 7 years, with homeowners saving an average of $24,657.6 on electricity over 20 years.
Ginalyn Gelera
Last Reviewed By: Ginalyn Gelera
Published: 2024-11-04