FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about going solar in Oklahoma. Can't find your answer? Contact us.
Solar Basics
How Solar Works
How do solar panels work?
Sunlight hits the panels and gets converted into electricity. An inverter turns that into the type of power your home uses. Any extra energy goes back to the grid and you get a credit on your bill. It's pretty straightforward once it's installed.
How do solar panels work in Oklahoma's climate?
Really well, actually. Oklahoma gets over 230 sunny days a year. Panels still produce on cloudy days, and they actually perform better in cooler temperatures. It's one of the better states for solar.
What about cloudy days?
Solar panels still produce electricity on cloudy days, just at reduced output (typically 10-25% of full capacity). Your system is designed based on annual production, not daily peaks. The credits you build during sunny months offset lower production periods. Oklahoma averages 235 sunny days per year.
Will hail damage my panels?
Panel hail test results vary by manufacturer and model. Ask for the proposed module's current test report and mounting requirements. Confirm coverage, deductible, exclusions, notification requirements and any premium change with your insurer before installation.
Do solar panels work during power outages?
Without a battery, no. The system shuts off during outages to protect utility workers on the lines. But if you have a battery like a Tesla Powerwall, your home keeps running on stored solar energy while everyone else is in the dark.
How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels are warrantied for 25 years and typically produce electricity well beyond that. Most panels degrade less than 0.5% per year, meaning after 25 years they're still producing around 87% of their original output. The inverter may need replacement once during that period (typically around year 12-15).
Do I still have an electric bill with solar?
Your bill depends on recent usage, modeled production, utility charges and export credits. A proposal should show those inputs and assumptions. You will still receive a utility bill and may owe fixed charges and electricity drawn from the grid.
How does net metering work with OG&E and PSO?
Both OG&E and PSO offer net metering in Oklahoma. When your panels produce more electricity than your home uses (typically midday), the excess flows to the grid and you earn credits on your bill. At night or on cloudy days, you draw from the grid and use those credits. Most solar homeowners build up credits in summer to offset higher winter usage.
Costs & Savings
The Money Side
How much does solar cost in Oklahoma?
System cost depends on recent usage, roof layout, electrical work, equipment, batteries and project size. Compare an itemized cash price with the financed total cost. We provide property-specific pricing after reviewing the site and usage. See our solar panel options for equipment details.
How much can you save with solar panels in Oklahoma?
Savings and payback depend on recent usage, utility rules, modeled production, project cost, financing terms, roof and electrical conditions, and stated rate assumptions. Compare the property-specific estimate with the assumptions and do not treat it as a guarantee.
What happens to my solar savings when rates go up?
Future savings are not known. If utility rates rise, electricity you avoid buying may become more valuable, but the result depends on your usage, system production, utility rules and the rate assumptions in your proposal.
Do you offer financing options?
Loan terms, rates, fees, down payment and monthly payment depend on the lender and borrower. Ask which options are currently available, then compare the cash price with the financed total cost instead of comparing only monthly payments.
Do solar panels increase home value?
Resale results depend on system ownership, financing terms, system condition and the local market. Review payoff or transfer requirements with the lender, and ask a local real estate professional how the system may affect the sale.
What if I sell my house?
Before listing, confirm system ownership, loan payoff or transfer requirements, and warranty transfer terms. Sale price and timing depend on the property, buyer and local market.
Installation
Getting Solar on Your Roof
How many panels does my home need?
Depends on your usage, roof size and shading. The average Oklahoma home uses about 1,100 kWh/month, which is 25% above the national average. That typically means 20-30 panels. We size it exactly during your free consultation using satellite imagery and your actual utility data.
Is my home a good fit for solar panels?
Most homes are. South-facing roofs with minimal shade are ideal, but east and west-facing roofs work well too. Your roof should be in decent shape, ideally less than 15 years old. We do a free assessment and tell you straight up if it makes sense or not.
Will solar panels damage my roof?
No. Properly installed panels can help protect the shingles underneath from sun and weather. We handle roofing too, so your roof and solar can be coordinated by the same team. That's why we warranty our workmanship for 10 years when most solar companies only offer 1 or 2.
How long does installation take?
From start to finish, about 4 to 8 weeks. The actual install is usually 1 to 3 days on the roof. Most of the wait is permitting and getting the utility to sign off on the interconnection. We handle all of that so you don't have to deal with it.
What permits are required for solar installation in Oklahoma?
Building and electrical permits from your local jurisdiction. But you don't need to worry about any of that. We handle all the permitting and paperwork as part of the process.
Battery Storage
Home Batteries & Backup Power
Do I need a battery with my solar system?
Solar on its own does the job for most people. A battery adds backup during outages and stores extra energy for nighttime. It does add to the cost, so a lot of homeowners start with panels and add a battery later. We set every system up to be battery-ready from day one.
Do I need solar panels to get a battery?
No. A battery can be installed without solar and charged from the grid. Pairing it with solar lets you store part of the system's production for later use. Compare the loads, runtime goal, charging source and utility rules before choosing a configuration.
What's the difference between whole-home and essential backup?
Whole-home backs up everything: AC, dryer, oven, all outlets. It requires more battery capacity (often 2+ units) and costs more. Essential backup covers the circuits you care about most: refrigerator, medical equipment, lights, internet. It stretches a single battery much further. We walk you through the trade-offs during your consultation.
How long can a battery power my home?
Depends on what you're powering. A single 13.5 kWh battery running essential loads (fridge, lights, internet, phone chargers) can last 12-24 hours. Add solar panels and the battery recharges during the day, extending backup indefinitely as long as the sun shines. Whole-home backup draws more power and drains faster, which is why we help you choose the right configuration.
Which battery brand should I choose?
It depends on your priorities. EG4 is our most affordable option with the highest capacity per dollar. Tesla Powerwall 3 is the best all-in-one package with weather alerts and the Tesla app. FranklinWH has the longest warranty (15 years) and the most advanced energy management. We install all three and recommend based on your situation, not brand preference.
Can I add a battery to my existing solar system?
A hybrid inverter may support a compatible battery with limited additional work. Systems with microinverters may need a battery-compatible inverter or an AC-coupled battery. We confirm compatibility, required equipment and scope during the consultation.
How much does a home battery cost?
A single battery system (installed) typically runs $10,000-$20,000 depending on the brand and configuration. EG4 is at the lower end, FranklinWH at the higher end, with Tesla in the middle. Whole-home backup with multiple batteries costs more. We provide exact pricing during your free consultation.
SPAN Smart Panel
Smart Electrical Panels
What is SPAN and how is it different from a regular panel?
A regular breaker panel is just a box of switches. SPAN replaces it with a smart panel that monitors energy usage per circuit, lets you control circuits from your phone and intelligently manages your home's power. Five models cover 16 to 48 circuits, so there's a fit for any home. It's UL 3141 certified and fits in the same footprint as your existing panel.
Does SPAN work with my existing solar system?
Yes. SPAN is compatible with any grid-tied solar inverter. If you already have solar, SPAN adds circuit-level control and monitoring on top of your existing system. If you're adding solar and SPAN together, we install both in a coordinated project.
Which batteries does SPAN support?
SPAN works with Tesla Powerwall, FranklinWH and EG4 battery systems. When paired with a battery, SPAN manages which circuits draw backup power during outages, extending your backup time by up to 40% compared to a traditional panel.
Can I add an EV charger without a service upgrade?
In many cases, yes. SPAN's PowerUp technology dynamically manages your electrical loads so you can add an EV charger, heat pump or induction cooktop without exceeding your panel's capacity. This can save you $5,000+ on a utility service upgrade. We assess your specific situation during the consultation.
How long does SPAN installation take?
Most SPAN installations are completed in one day. Our electricians replace your existing panel, migrate every circuit, test each one and set up the app before they leave. Total project timeline from consultation to completion is typically 2-4 weeks, depending on permitting.
What's the SPAN warranty?
SPAN comes with a 10-year product warranty when installed by an authorized installer. We add our own 10-year workmanship warranty on top of that, covering the installation itself. Both warranties require installation by an authorized dealer, which we are.
Do I need internet for SPAN to work?
SPAN requires Wi-Fi for remote monitoring, app control and software updates. If your internet goes down, SPAN continues to function as a normal electrical panel and maintains any backup priority settings you've configured. You just lose remote access until the connection is restored.
Electrical Services
Panel Upgrades & EV Charging
Do I need a panel upgrade for solar?
Usually, yes. Most solar installations require at least 200A service. If your panel is 100A or 150A, we'll need to upgrade it before installing solar. We assess this during your initial consultation and include it in the project quote so there are no surprises.
How much does a 200A panel upgrade cost?
It depends on the home. A straightforward 100A to 200A upgrade in a home with an accessible panel location is different from a home that needs a new meter base, a relocated panel or extensive rewiring. We provide a clear, itemized quote after the assessment. No ballpark numbers over the phone.
Can you install an EV charger without upgrading my panel?
Sometimes. If your panel has enough capacity and available breaker slots for a 40-50A circuit, we can install the charger without touching the panel. We check this during the assessment. If you have a SPAN smart panel, it can manage loads dynamically so you may be able to add an EV charger even on a tighter panel.
What's the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging?
Level 1 uses a standard 120V outlet (the plug that comes with your car). It adds about 4-5 miles of range per hour. Level 2 uses a dedicated 240V circuit and adds 25-30 miles per hour. For most people, Level 2 is the right choice. You plug in when you get home and wake up with a full charge.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
Most panel upgrades are completed in one day. Your power will be off for a portion of the day while we swap the panel and make connections. We coordinate with the utility for the disconnect and reconnect. Complex jobs (meter base replacement, panel relocation) may take two days.
Can I combine electrical work with a solar install?
Absolutely. This is one of our biggest advantages. The same licensed crew that upgrades your panel also installs your solar and battery. One permit, one timeline, one warranty. Combining the work often saves time and money compared to hiring separate contractors. Learn more about our electrical services.
New Construction
Building a Home with Solar
Can I add solar if my builder hasn't started framing yet?
Yes, and that's the ideal time. If you're still in the plans or pre-construction phase, we can influence the roof design for maximum solar production. Even if framing has started, we can usually work with your electrician to run conduit before drywall goes up. The key milestone is: before the walls close. Learn more about solar for new construction.
Will solar slow down my construction timeline?
No. The pre-wire happens during normal framing and electrical rough-in. Your electrician does it as part of their scope. The panel installation happens after the roof is complete and takes 1-2 days. We schedule around the build timeline, not the other way around.
How does rolling solar into the mortgage work?
Ask your lender whether solar can be included in the mortgage and which terms apply. Compare the cash price, interest rate, fees, term, total amount financed and monthly payment with a separate solar loan. Then compare modeled production with recent usage and current utility rules.
What if I want to add a battery later?
Mention it during design. We can document compatible inverter, wiring, loads and electrical requirements. Future work and cost depend on the battery and installed equipment.
Does my builder need to do anything special?
Not much. We provide a scope document that specifies conduit runs, junction box locations and electrical panel requirements. Your builder's electrician handles the pre-wire during their normal rough-in. We handle everything else: design, permitting, panel installation and utility coordination. We've worked with builders who've never done a solar project before. It's straightforward.
What size system does a new build typically need?
The average Oklahoma home uses about 1,100 kWh/month. That typically requires a 7-10 kW system (16-24 panels). But new construction homes built to modern code are more efficient. We size the system based on your expected usage, which we estimate from the home's square footage, HVAC system and insulation specs.
Can I design the roof layout around solar production?
Absolutely. That's one of the biggest advantages of new construction solar. We can recommend south-facing roof planes, optimal pitch angles and strategic placement of vents and dormers to avoid shading. Even small changes during design can increase production 10-15%. This is something retrofit installs can never do.
Maintenance & Warranty
After Installation
What maintenance do solar panels require?
Basically nothing. Rain keeps them clean. If it's been dry for a while, you can hose them off. There are no moving parts, so there's nothing to break. We recommend a quick check once a year, but most people just watch their production app and forget about it.
What warranties do you offer?
The panels come with 25 to 30 year production warranties from the manufacturer. Inverters are typically 10 to 25 years depending on the model. And we back our installation with a 10-year workmanship warranty, which is 5 to 10 times what most solar companies offer.
What does the workmanship guarantee cover?
Our 10-year workmanship guarantee covers any issues resulting from our installation work. This includes electrical connections, mounting hardware installation, wiring and system configuration. If something we installed fails, we'll repair or replace it at no cost.
What about roof leaks?
Every roof penetration (where mounting hardware attaches to your roof) is guaranteed leak-free for 10 years. We use industry-best practices for flashing and sealing. If any roof penetration we made develops a leak, we'll repair it and any resulting damage.
Are warranties transferable if I sell my home?
Transfer rules vary by manufacturer and warranty. Review the current workmanship and equipment warranty terms before listing so the buyer knows which coverage can transfer and what paperwork is required.
What if something goes wrong with my system?
Your system is monitored, so we usually know about an issue before you do. If something comes up, our local team handles it. We're not going anywhere. This is our community and we stand behind our work.
How do I file a warranty claim?
Simply call us. We don't use call centers or ticket systems. You'll speak directly with our team, and we'll schedule a service visit if needed. For manufacturer warranty claims, we handle all the paperwork for you.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help. Get a free consultation and personalized quote for your home.
Send a MessageData Centers & Your Rates
Oklahoma's Grid & Rising Costs
Are data centers causing my electric rates to go up?
Large-load projects can require new generation, transmission, and substations. The household effect depends on tariffs and cost-allocation rules approved by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. Review the Oklahoma data-center tracker for project status and the utility-rate tracker for approved residential impacts.
How much power does a data center use?
A single large data center can consume 100 to over 1,000 megawatts of continuous power. For context, PSO's previous largest customer contract was 130 MW. They recently signed a single data center customer for over 1,000 MW, with 11 additional contracts each over 50 MW.
What is the Behind the Meter law?
Signed in May 2025 and effective July 1, 2025, this Oklahoma law allows data centers to build their own on-site power generation rather than relying entirely on the public grid. While this could reduce some grid pressure, existing data centers and those already contracted with utilities will continue drawing from the shared grid.
Will Oklahoma legislators protect ratepayers from data center costs?
HB 2992, the Data Center Consumer Ratepayer Protection Act of 2026, was signed by the governor in May 2026. It is intended to shift more qualifying large-load infrastructure costs to data-center operators. Results depend on implementation and Oklahoma Corporation Commission orders. See the current Oklahoma data-center tracker.
How does solar protect me from data center-driven rate increases?
Solar can reduce electricity purchased from the utility, but it does not prevent rate changes or eliminate fixed charges. Compare recent usage, modeled production, utility rules, project cost and stated rate assumptions.
What are the Winter Storm Uri bonds?
After Winter Storm Uri in 2021, OG&E and PSO securitized approximately $1.4 billion in combined storm costs through bonds that ratepayers are repaying over time. These bonds are being challenged by Oklahoma legislators at the Supreme Court as of February 2026. This is a separate cost layered on top of the rate increases and data center infrastructure charges.
Helpful Next Reads
Want the longer answers behind the most common questions? Start with our solar quote guide, solar cost in Oklahoma guide, installation timeline guide, and Oklahoma weather guide.