How much does it cost to go solar?
Residential solar systems typically cost between $3 and $5 per watt installed, which puts a common 7–10 kW system in the $21,000–$50,000 range before incentives. The most useful way to think about it is monthly impact: many homeowners replace a fluctuating electric bill with a fixed solar payment that's lower. Your actual number depends on your roof, location, energy usage, and financing structure — which is why we start with your electric bill rather than a price list.
How many solar panels does my home need?
Most homes need between 20 and 35 panels depending on how much electricity you use, how much direct sunlight your roof receives, and the wattage of the panels chosen. The average American household uses about 11,000 kWh per year, which typically requires around 30 standard 250-watt panels or 20 higher-output 400-watt panels. The only way to get an accurate number for your home is to look at your actual usage and roof conditions.
Is solar actually worth it in the Midwest?
Yes — Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Arkansas, and Oklahoma all receive enough annual sunlight for solar to make financial sense. The Midwest averages 4.5–5.5 peak sun hours per day, which is sufficient for meaningful bill reduction. States like Kansas and Missouri rank among the better solar markets due to reasonable electricity rates and available incentives. The federal 30% Investment Tax Credit also applies regardless of location, significantly reducing upfront cost.
What is the federal solar tax credit?
The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the total cost of a solar installation from their federal income taxes. For a $30,000 system, that's a $9,000 tax credit. This applies to the system cost including equipment and installation labor. Note: this is a tax credit (reduces what you owe) not a rebate (immediate cash back), so you need sufficient tax liability to use the full amount. Tax eligibility varies — consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
What happens to solar at night or on cloudy days?
Solar panels don't generate electricity at night. During cloudy days, they still produce energy — typically 10–25% of their rated output depending on cloud cover. Most grid-tied solar homes handle this through net metering: when your panels produce more than you use (sunny afternoon), the excess flows back to the grid and you earn a credit. At night or on cloudy days, you draw from the grid and use those credits. The result is that your bill reflects your net usage over the month, often near zero for many customers.
How does net metering work?
Net metering is a billing arrangement with your utility where the grid acts like a battery. When your solar produces more electricity than your home uses, the surplus flows to the grid and your meter runs backward — you accumulate credits. When you need power the grid didn't generate (nights, low-sun days), you draw those credits down. At the end of the billing cycle, you pay only for the net difference. Net metering rules vary by state and utility, so availability and credit rates differ by location.
Will solar increase my home's value?
Research from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that solar installations increase home sale prices by an average of $4 per watt — meaning a 7 kW system could add roughly $28,000 to your home's value. The increase varies by market, system age, and buyer demand for solar in your area. Solar homes also tend to sell faster than comparable non-solar homes. Keep in mind that owned systems (not leased) transfer value most cleanly to a buyer.
How long does solar installation take?
The physical installation of panels typically takes one to three days depending on system size and roof complexity. The full timeline from signing a contract to your system being live is usually four to twelve weeks — most of that time is permitting and utility interconnection approvals, which Valoa Solar handles for you. We manage the entire process in-house, including design, permitting, installation, and utility connection, so you don't have to coordinate multiple contractors.
What type of solar panels does Valoa Solar install?
We install silicon solar panels, which make up 95% of all residential solar systems for good reason: they're durable, cost-effective, and proven. Silicon panels are designed to perform at peak output for 25 years, after which they typically maintain around 80–85% of their original capacity. Our panels are backed by a 25-year performance warranty. We don't recommend more expensive concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) systems for residential use — the cost-to-benefit ratio simply isn't there for most homeowners.
Can I get solar if my roof needs work?
If your roof is near the end of its life, it's worth replacing it before going solar to avoid removing and reinstalling panels down the road. A roof replacement before solar installation typically adds $8,000–$15,000 to the total project cost but saves you from a more expensive and disruptive re-installation later. During your consultation, we'll assess your roof condition as part of the system design process and be direct about what we find.
What are the main disadvantages of solar?
Solar isn't the right fit for everyone. High upfront cost is the biggest barrier, though financing spreads this over time. Not every roof is suitable — heavy shading from trees or buildings, certain roof materials, or roofs facing north can significantly reduce production. Solar also doesn't provide power during grid outages unless you add battery storage (which adds cost). And the payback period (typically 6–12 years) means the long-term value is better for homeowners who plan to stay in their home.
How do I know if my home is a good candidate for solar?
The best candidates have most of these: a south- or west-facing roof with minimal shading, an electric bill over $100/month, homeownership (not renting), plans to stay in the home at least 5–7 years, and sufficient roof space. Credit score also matters for financing. The fastest way to find out is to have a quick conversation — Agent Ray can look up the solar potential for your specific address using satellite data, giving you a real estimate before you talk to anyone.