Get the facts on Solar

Renewable energy is an environmentally responsible alternative to fossil fuels and has become a hot topic recently for many producers as well as homeowners looking for ways to save on their energy costs. 

The average monthly residential electricity bill in Kentucky is $107; ranking 21^st in the nation. Monthly electric consumption in Kentucky is 1,130 kWh ranking 7^th highest in the nation. Kentucky, a large coal producing state, benefits from low cost of electric compared to national averages which could explain higher consumption rates. 

Solar installation costs have also declined in recent years. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, average cost per watt has decreased from $7.24 in 2010 to $2.80 (2017) while at the same time, solar technology has improved significantly. These changes over the past several years, has led to many homeowners, producers, and business owners asking questions about the potential use of renewable energy; particularly solar.    

Henderson County Extension put together an “Introduction to Solar” program aimed at getting the answers concerning solar potential in Kentucky. Speakers from the University of Kentucky, Kentucky Department of Energy, Kentucky Utilities, and private solar contractors presented to 86 attendees ranging from homeowners to small and large farmers. It is important to note that this program attracted participants not currently familiar with Extension. Informal conversations with 20+ participants revealed that many of them had never been to any program associated with the Extension Office.

The round table discussion at the end of the program included all of the speakers and a local producer who had installed a system on his farm. The multitude of questions from the participants lengthened the program significantly past allotted time and supported the need for this type of program in our county. 

Renewable energy has become a popular topic nationally and locally. This program helped participants make an informed decision by providing them with good information regarding the economics of solar, the history of solar, and the technical aspects of a solar system. A follow up survey is planned for later this year.