What to know about net metering in Mississippi
Mississippi’s net metering program has evolved to encourage more renewable energy adoption, but it still does not offer full retail rate compensation for self-generated electricity.
On average, Mississippi homeowners with solar panels avoid $15,211 in utility costs over 25 years.
Here is how it works: Solar power used in your home lowers the amount of electricity you buy from the utility. Extra power sent to the grid earns a smaller credit based on the utility’s avoided energy costs, plus an additional state-approved amount.
A solar battery is not required to send excess electricity to the grid. Customers with batteries can also export power they do not use or store.
The program mainly applies to customers of Entergy Mississippi and Mississippi Power. Electric cooperative customers should ask their utility about its solar rules and rates.
How much are solar panels in Mississippi?
A typical solar panel system in Mississippi costs 5.2 kW. This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery, which can add $7,000 to $18,000 to your overall solar costs.
Solar panel costs by system size in Mississippi
| 5 kW | 6 kW | 7 kW | 8 kW | 9 kW | 10 kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide average | $13,343 | $16,011 | $18,680 | $21,348 | $24,017 | $26,685 |
Federal mortgage options for solar panels
Some federal mortgage programs let eligible borrowers include solar panels or other energy upgrades in a home purchase or refinance loan. Rules vary by lender.
- FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage: Finance cost-effective energy upgrades through an FHA-insured mortgage. A home energy assessment is required, and expected savings must cover the upgrade cost. Separate FHA rules apply to solar and wind systems.
- VA Energy Efficient Mortgage: Eligible VA borrowers can add up to $6,000 for approved energy upgrades. For costs over $3,000, projected monthly savings must exceed the added mortgage payment.
Find solar companies in Mississippi
A good solar company helps you navigate local incentives, permitting and net metering policies. Compare our picks for Mississippi’s top solar companies to learn more.
| Company | Customer rating | Pro install | Payment options | Year founded | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Tesla Energy | Learn More | 1.9 |  | Cash, loan and lease | 2015 |
 ShopSolar | Learn More | 4.5 |  | Cash, loan | 2018 |
FAQ
Can I get free solar panels in Mississippi?
No, but you can lease solar equipment with minimal upfront costs. Solar leases generally require a flat monthly fee.
» FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?
How can I pay for solar panels?
You can pay cash, but most people finance solar panels with a solar loan. It works a lot like any other type of loan — there’s an application and approval process, and you pay it back over time (with interest). You also have the option to lease equipment.
» SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy
How much can I save with solar panels in Mississippi?
On average, Mississippi homeowners with solar panels avoid $15,211 in utility costs over 25 years. Even if you don’t generate 100% of your energy needs, you can still save a lot of money versus paying traditional utility bills. In Mississippi, solar panels usually pay for themselves within 17.39 years.
» EXPLORE: Where solar savings go the furthest
How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?
It’s best to have plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west for optimal sun exposure. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity. If you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home.
The condition of your roof matters too — if it needs replacement soon, do that before installing solar panels. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.
Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?
Possibly. There are no laws in Mississippi that prevent homeowners associations from restricting solar panels.
What has Mississippi's investment in solar been so far?
Total solar investment in the state has reached $2.4 billion, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.
Bottom line
The ConsumerAffairs Research Team conducted an in-depth analysis to determine the average costs of going solar. Turns out, it's worth it for many homeowners, even in Mississippi.
Solar costs vs. savings: Mississippi 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** | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $17,606 | $29,343 | 5.8 kW | $2.93 | $48,933 |
| Arkansas | $14,806 | $24,677 | 8.1 kW | $2.47 | $16,822 |
| Louisiana | $16,007 | $26,679 | 5 kW | $2.67 | $12,171 |
| Mississippi | $16,011 | $26,685 | 5.2 kW | $2.67 | $15,211 |
| Tennessee | $18,277 | $30,462 | 6.7 kW | $3.05 | $2,846 |
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:
- DSIRE, "Mississippi Programs." Accessed July 28, 2026.
- Solar Energy Industries Association, "Mississippi Solar." Accessed July 28, 2026.
- Mississippi Today, "PSC axes solar programs in light of EPA funds, advocates file lawsuit." Accessed July 28, 2026.
- Hattiesburg Patriot, "PSC axes solar programs in light of EPA funds, advocates file lawsuit." Accessed July 28, 2026.
- Mississippi Public Service Commission, "TITLE 39: UTILITIES." Accessed July 28, 2026.
