Solar power in Arkansas

Solar power in Arkansas on rooftops can provide 33.3% of all electricity used in Arkansas from 12,200 MW of solar panels.^[1]

Net metering is available to all residential consumers up to 25 kW and 300 kW for non-residential users, but is lost once a year at the end of the 12 month billing cycle, which needs to be in the spring to avoid losing excess summer generation.^[2] IREC best practices, based on experience, recommends no limits to net metering, individual or aggregate, and perpetual roll over of kWh credits.^[3] A rebate program is available for systems up to 25 kW that pays $1.50/kWh generated during the first year of operation.^[4] A 5 kW system, costing $17,500 after receiving a 30% federal tax credit, would produce about 6484 kWh/year, providing a rebate of approximately $9,726. The federal tax credit is available through 2021.^[5]

In 2010 the Fayetteville Public Library installed a 13.5 kW solar array,^[6] and received a rebate for the 20,547 kWh generated of $30,821.10.^[7]

The largest company in Arkansas, and occasionally the world,^[8] Walmart, set a goal in 2005 of being powered 100% by renewable energy. By April 2012 they were generating 4% locally, mainly from rooftop solar panels, and overall using 22% renewable energy.^[9]