Key insights
A typical residential solar panel installation costs $37,480 in Oklahoma.
Jump to insightIt’s estimated that Oklahoma homeowners with solar panels can avoid $43,701 in total utility costs over 25 years.
Jump to insightOn average, a residential solar system in Oklahoma takes about 9.8 years to pay for itself.
Jump to insightWhat to consider before going solar in Oklahoma
We’ve talked to thousands of solar customers who have already gone through the installation process. It’s generally worth it if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills, helping the environment and gaining energy independence. But it doesn’t work out for everyone. The answer depends on a few key factors, like your system size, whether you add battery storage and the condition of your roof.
1. How much will it cost upfront?
The size of your system is one of the biggest solar cost factors in Oklahoma. A typical Oklahoma household needs about a 14.36 kW system, which costs $37,480 on average.
Most installers set the price according to the system’s wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. “Cost per watt” is a little like looking at the price per square foot when you buy a house. It helps you compare the value of solar energy systems in different sizes. In Oklahoma, the average cost per watt is about $2.61.
Going solar is a lot like buying a car: You can pay upfront, finance the cost over time or, in some cases, lease the system with little or no money down.
Oklahoma's average solar panel costs by system size
| 5 kW | 6 kW | 7 kW | 8 kW | 9 kW | 10 kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide | $13,050 | $15,660 | $18,270 | $20,880 | $23,490 | $26,100 |
| Oklahoma City | $13,100 | $15,720 | $18,340 | $20,960 | $23,580 | $26,200 |
| Tulsa | $12,850 | $15,420 | $17,990 | $20,560 | $23,130 | $25,700 |
How to estimate what system size you need
Solar storage batteries cost $7,000 to $18,000.
First, look at your electric bill. It should say how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) you used last year. Then, divide that number by 1,200 to estimate your system size in kilowatts (kW).
For example, if you used 12,000 kWh of electricity last year, you would need a 10-kW system. If you used 10,800 kWh, you would need a 9-kW system.
Consider battery storage
Solar panels only generate electricity while the sun is shining. A battery lets you store energy for later use, like at night or during a power outage.
It’s worth considering if you expect your utility company to keep raising rates (and it’s essential if you want real energy independence).
The biggest downside to a solar battery is the price. Adding one can increase your total system costs by $7,000 to $18,000.
2. How much will I save over time?
Over 25 years, the average Oklahoma homeowner with solar panels is estimated to avoid $43,701 in total utility costs. That projected amount could fluctuate based on future electricity rates, your energy use and system performance. By going solar now, you’re also protecting yourself from future rate increases.
Monthly costs: solar payments vs. savings
Think about solar in terms of both monthly and long-term costs. A solar loan may make sense if your monthly payment is close to or below what you would otherwise spend on electricity, but also compare the interest rate, fees, loan term and total amount you’ll repay.
3. Is my house a good candidate for solar panels?
Going solar ends up being worth it for many homeowners as long as their house is a good candidate to support a solar panel installation. Here’s what to think about before you commit:
How energy-efficient is your home? Before you size a solar system, look for ways to cut your electricity use. If your refrigerator, AC or other major appliances are old and inefficient, upgrading them first could mean you need fewer solar panels — and a cheaper system.
What is the condition of your roof? If you have to replace your roof, do that before you install solar panels. Solar panels last 25 to 30 years, so you want your roof to last just as long. Otherwise, it could cost thousands to remove the panels, fix your roof and reinstall the panels again.
Is your roof a good angle for solar? South-facing roofs usually get the most sunlight, but east- and west-facing roofs can work well too. North-facing roofs tend to produce less power, especially if they’re steep, so you may need a larger system to generate the same amount of electricity.
We suggest using NLR’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel system can produce over a year on your house.
4. How long will I stay in my house?
It takes years for electric bill savings to offset the initial cost — about 9.8 years on average in Oklahoma. If you sell your house and move before then, you might not fully realize the financial benefits of your solar investment.
Solar panels last 25 to 30 years.
It’s true that solar panels can increase the value of your home. But they can also complicate a sale. This is especially true if you lease your system, since the buyer may need to take over the contract.
If you think you’ll move in the next couple of years, you may want to consider a home improvement project with a better return on investment, like a kitchen or bathroom remodel.
5. Am I eligible for any financial incentives?
The 30% federal solar tax credit has expired, and Oklahoma currently does not offer statewide solar rebates, tax credits or performance incentives for residential solar installations.
So, savings typically come from bill credits (net metering or net energy billing), lowering energy use first and financing options.
Energy efficiency rebates in Oklahoma
Before you go solar, it’s smart to reduce your home’s electricity use so you can buy a smaller (cheaper) system. If you have older appliances or HVAC equipment, upgrading first can lower your monthly load.
Power Forward with PSO offers rebates for qualifying upgrades for PSO customers.
Oklahoma Natural Gas has rebates for qualifying natural gas equipment, including certain water heaters.
What to know about net metering in Oklahoma
Net metering lets you get credit for extra solar power your panels send to the grid. In Oklahoma, qualifying systems can generally be up to 300 kW. Systems larger than 125% of your home’s peak electricity demand may not qualify.
Here’s the important part if you’re deciding whether solar is worth it:
When your panels produce electricity your home uses, you avoid buying that electricity from the utility.
If you use more electricity than your panels produce during the month, you pay the utility for the difference.
If your panels produce more than you use for the month, your utility generally pays or credits you for the extra power at its avoided-cost rate.
Why system size matters
Solar power is usually worth more when you use it yourself. Electricity your panels produce can offset power you would otherwise buy at the full retail rate.
But if you produce more electricity than you use over the month, your utility generally values that extra power at a lower avoided-cost rate.
That means installing the biggest solar system possible isn’t necessarily the best deal. For most Oklahoma homeowners, it makes more sense to size the system around how much electricity the household actually uses.
Real-world example
One solar customer we talked to, Lowell in Oklahoma City, installed 13 solar panels in 2023. “My electric bill before was on average $125 a month, but now, it is always about $14.97,” they wrote in a review. “For January, February, March, and April, I over produced about 600 kilowatts, and here in Oklahoma, they give you a credit. But it’s been very cloudy this month. So we’re producing less because of the clouds. But I have all this credit, so it’ll be carried over into this month. So I still won’t have a bill.”
Did you know?
Oklahoma utilities generally value monthly excess generation at the avoided-cost rate, so credits may not equal the retail value of the electricity produced.
» MORE: Solar incentives in Oklahoma
Pros and cons of solar panels in Oklahoma
Oklahoma might not be the best state for going solar, but it still ends up being worth it for some residents. It has a good climate for solar panels. However, you can expect some seasonal fluctuation in how much energy they can produce.
Pros
- Long-term savings
- Better for the environment
- Low maintenance costs
- May increase home resale value
Cons
- Upfront costs
- Seasonal production variations
- Performance can be affected by shading from trees or buildings.
Solar companies in Oklahoma
People have mixed experiences with solar companies in Oklahoma. In the best-case scenario, it’s easy to make the switch and you’re happy with the system’s performance. In the worst-case scenario, you end up paying thousands for mid-tier solar equipment from a company with poor customer service and no follow-up or support.
A common complaint is related to pushy sales reps who make promises that can’t be delivered.
One resident, Wendy in Lawton, told us about a negative experience with dishonest sales practices, equipment issues and lack of assistance from the solar company she hired. There aren’t any Oklahoma-specific requirements, or a state-maintained database of solar contractors for consumers.
That’s why it’s so important to thoroughly research and verify claims made by sales teams before making a decision.
Compare local solar companies
A good solar company helps you navigate local incentives, permitting and net metering policies. Compare our picks for the top solar companies in Oklahoma to learn more.
| Company | Customer rating | Max. panel efficiency | Professional installation | Payment options | Warranty | Year founded | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Project Solar | Learn More | 3.8 | 20.9% |  | Cash, loan | 25 years | 2020 |
 Freedom Forever | Learn More | 3.6 | Varies | | Cash, loan, lease | 25 years | 2011 |
 ShopSolar | Learn More | 4.3 | Varies |  | Cash, loan | Varies | 2018 |
 Solar Power of Oklahoma | Write a Review | 3.9 | Varies | | Cash, loan | 25 years | 2017 |
 Tesla Energy | Learn More | 1.9 | Varies | | Cash, loan and lease | 10-25 years | 2015 |
FAQ
What are the drawbacks of going solar in Oklahoma?
The main obstacle to going solar is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing solar equipment. Then, since solar panels do not generate electricity at night, you need to pull power from the grid or get an energy storage battery to keep your lights on.
Solar equipment is expensive: Solar panel prices typically start between $10,000 and $30,000. It’s even more expensive if you want a solar battery for energy storage. Solar battery costs are generally between $7,000 and $18,000. Grid-tied systems need battery storage or another backup setup to keep powering a home during an outage.
Potential roof leaks: The installation process involves drilling holes into the roof to anchor the panel mounting systems. If not done correctly, this can lead to leaks or structural damage.
Could make your house harder to sell: Solar panels can make a home harder to sell if they’re leased or financed, since the buyer may have to take over the agreement. Some buyers may also worry about roof repairs, maintenance or whether the system will actually save them money.
Energy production varies: Solar panels work on cloudy days, but they produce less power when there’s less sunlight. Snow can also temporarily reduce output until it melts or slides off. Snow cover can also reduce efficiency until it’s removed or melts off.
Some solar companies are sketchy: Some solar companies may not be upfront about the permitting process, so make sure to ask careful questions before signing any paperwork. For instance, an Oklahoma City family was sent into a panic after they spent $28,000 on a new solar panel system and an inspection holdup kept them waiting to use the panels for months, a local television station reported in summer 2023.
» MORE: Solar energy pros and cons
What are the benefits of solar panels in Oklahoma?
The main benefits are lower electric bills, more predictable energy costs and some protection from outages if you add a battery.
Cheaper energy bills: Solar panels can reduce how much electricity you need to buy from your utility. That can lower your monthly bills and make your energy costs more predictable over time. It also protects you from future energy cost increases.
Better for the environment: Traditional energy sources like coal and natural gas release carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants into the air. Installing solar panels on your roof helps the environment primarily by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
Higher home resale value: Installing solar panels can increase a home’s value. The exact increase in value varies by location, with homes in active solar markets sometimes seeing even higher boosts.
More energy independence: Some homeowners pair solar with battery storage for more energy independence and backup power during outages.
What solar scams are common in Oklahoma?
In 2018, Oklahoma Gas & Electric reported a rise in scammers posing as OG&E employees, and demanding immediate payment from customers after threatening a cutoff in service. These scammers targeted churches, small businesses and nursing homes. Some used a scheme involving prepaid cards.
Like in any booming industry, some salespeople want to make a quick buck and might say anything to close a sale. It’s important to read your contract carefully, especially if you finance or lease a system.
Look for companies with years of experience in Oklahoma and good local reputations. Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower quotes than others — this may indicate lower quality.
» TIPS: Get the best solar quotes
How can I pay for solar panels?
Financing options and leasing programs make solar more affordable for Oklahoma homeowners:
Solar loans work like any other type of home improvement loan. There’s an application and approval process. You pay it back over time (with interest) each month.
Leasing solar panels lets you set up a system without the high upfront costs. Monthly payments usually range $150 to $250. Agreements last 20 to 25 years.
» SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy
Are solar panels expensive to maintain?
No, solar panels have relatively low maintenance costs. If you clean the solar panels yourself, the only maintenance cost will be the water used to hose them down. Hiring a professional to clean your solar panels typically costs between $100 and $350.
Do solar panels increase property taxes in Oklahoma?
Possibly. A new solar panel system may increase property taxes on your residence in Oklahoma, as there is no property tax exemption in place. Solar panel systems often increase the property value of your home.
» MUST KNOW: Tax deductions for homeowners
What does cost per watt mean?
Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage. Similar to “cost per square foot” when buying a house, “cost per watt” allows you to compare the relative value of a solar panel system. It helps you compare the price of systems of different sizes on an apples-to-apples basis.
Bottom line: Is going solar worth it for you?
Solar can be worth it in Oklahoma, but it really comes down to the numbers. With no major statewide solar incentives and lower rates for excess power you send to the grid, you’ll usually get the most value from a system that closely matches your home’s electricity use.
Before you sign a contract, compare the total cost with your expected bill savings, financing costs and how long you plan to stay in the home. Solar tends to make the most sense if you use a lot of electricity, have a good roof for panels and expect to stay put long enough to earn back what you spent.
Solar costs vs. savings: Oklahoma and nearby states
| 6 kW system cost (before incentives) | 10 kW system cost (before incentives) | Typical system size needed* | Average cost per watt | Total utility power cost savings** | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $14,280 | $23,800 | 14.39 kW | $2.38 | $44,741 |
| Colorado | $15,960 | $26,600 | 11.5 kW | $2.66 | $39,344 |
| Kansas | $15,780 | $26,300 | 12.45 kW | $2.63 | $60,551 |
| Missouri | $15,000 | $25,000 | 13.42 kW | $2.50 | $63,348 |
| New Mexico | $15,420 | $25,700 | 10.98 kW | $2.57 | $43,093 |
| Oklahoma | $15,660 | $26,100 | 14.36 kW | $2.61 | $43,701 |
| Texas | $13,500 | $22,500 | 12.78 kW | $2.25 | $52,762 |
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
Oklahoma Corporation Commission, “Net Metering in Oklahoma.” Accessed Sept. 30, 2026.
Public Service Company of Oklahoma. “Solar Energy.” Accessed Sept. 30, 2026.
OG&E, “Renewables.” Accessed Sept. 30, 2026.
OGE Energy Corp, “OG&E warns residential and business customers about payment scams.” Accessed Sept. 30, 2026.
Federal Trade Commission, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 30, 2026.
Solar Energy Industries Association, “Residential Consumer Guide to Solar Energy.” Accessed Sept. 30, 2026.
