Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Smith Center, Kansas. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, Kansas-based company specializing in custom residential and agricultural solar installations. They are known for their personalized service, deep understanding of local incentives, and expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid battery backup systems, making them an excellent fit for rural properties.
A reputable installer with a strong presence in central Kansas. They offer a full-service approach, from initial energy assessment to installation and maintenance. They have strong manufacturer partnerships and provide robust warranty options.
A larger, well-established regional installer based in the Kansas City metro area that serves a wide radius, including northern Kansas. They bring extensive experience with a high volume of installations and a wide array of financing options.
** The home solar market in and around Smith Center, Kansas, is characteristic of a rural, low-population area. There is no local competition *within* the city itself, which means homeowners are served by regional contractors from hubs like Salina, Hutchinson, and even the Kansas City metro. The competition level is moderate, with a handful of established regional players vying for projects. The average quality of service is high, as these companies have built their reputations on serving rural communities where word-of-mouth and long-term reliability are paramount. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a typical gross cost of **$21,000 to $35,000** for a 7kW-10kW system, which is common for the area. The key factors influencing final cost are the need for battery storage for resilience (common in rural areas with occasional grid instability) and the specifics of the roof and electrical panel. Homeowners in Smith Center benefit from knowledgeable installers who are well-versed in Kansas-specific incentives, net metering policies from utilities like Midwest Energy, and the unique challenges of rural solar installation.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Smith Center regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Smith Center, Kansas.
For a typical 6kW to 8kW system in Smith Center, the gross cost before incentives is usually between $18,000 and $28,000. Crucially, you can claim the 30% federal solar tax credit, and Kansas offers a state property tax exemption for the added value of the system. While Evergy (your local utility) does not offer a specific rebate, these incentives significantly reduce the net cost, often by a third or more.
Smith Center's climate is excellent for solar, with abundant sunshine averaging over 215 sunny days per year, which is above the U.S. average. While production peaks in the long, clear summer days, panels still generate significant power in winter, especially with snow's reflective properties. Modern panels are also efficient in cold weather, which can actually improve their voltage output.
The most critical factor is choosing an installer deeply familiar with Evergy's interconnection and net metering policies for Smith Center. Look for a Kansas-based, licensed electrical contractor with strong local references who can navigate the specific permitting requirements of Smith County. They should provide a detailed production estimate that accounts for our local weather patterns and seasonal sun angles.
Evergy offers net metering for residential systems up to 25kW. Under this policy, your solar system sends excess power you generate back to the grid, spinning your meter backward and earning you a credit. These credits are used to offset your consumption at night or on cloudy days. It's a one-for-one credit system, making it a very fair and valuable benefit for Smith Center homeowners.
Yes, modern solar panels installed by reputable professionals are built to withstand Kansas weather. They are rigorously tested to endure hail up to 1 inch in diameter at 50+ mph and wind loads well over 140 mph, which exceeds typical Smith Center conditions. Your installation should include a manufacturer's warranty (often 25+ years) and be covered under your homeowner's insurance, just like your roof.