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Most people might not think of Arkansas as a leader regarding renewable energy, but perhaps they should. The Southern state is quietly making impressive strides in the solar industry, thanks to innovative technology and government incentives. Not only that, but this solar boom is also creating jobs and driving community involvement.
From technology to government policies to community engagement, let’s take a closer look at how Arkansas is breaking the mold and leading the way in solar energy solutions.
Innovative technology fuels Arkansas solar boom
Innovative technology has played a significant role in driving Arkansas’ solar energy growth. For example, the Arkansas Energy Office’s Renewable Energy Program grants renewable energy projects, including solar, to further encourage development. In addition, the Arkansas Energy Performance Contracting (AEPC) is a tool to help companies pay for energy efficiency upgrades like lighting, chillers and water systems.
The Arkansas Clean Cities Coalition comprises a voluntary group of local and state government agencies, private companies and nonprofit organizations committed to energy conservation. These public-private partnerships focus on “enhancing energy security, promoting energy independence and advancing environmental quality in Arkansas.”
These incentives have spurred a rapid increase in solar installations across the state, with a current solar installation capacity of over 600 megawatts. As the demand for renewable energy rises, Arkansas is poised to become a significant player in the industry.
Why go solar?
- Savings on your utility bills. (Arkansas Net Metering Rules)
- Bank extra energy for cloudy days.
- Increase the value of your home.
- Protection from rising energy costs.
- Become energy independent.
- Take advantage of the federal tax credit – free money ready for you!
Arkansas Solar Energy Companies and Projects
- Seal Solar | North Little Rock – This Arkansas-based solar firm keeps education at its core, having completed 1 out of 5 projects in the state.
- Arkansas Energy Ventures | Little Rock – operating with an Arkansas customer mindset based on an economic viability evaluation with each project.
- Libco Solar | Hot Springs Village – create made-to-order DIY installation kits with Enphase Storage and IQ8 Certified backup for long-term storage.
- Perihelion Solar | Russellville – Arkansas River Valley’s first photovoltaic systems integrator. Perihelion prioritizes educating the public, advocating for faster alternative energy reforms and creating a cleaner community.
- New Farm Solar NWA | Rogers – a different kind of solar company focusing on residential, commercial and off-grid solutions.
- Stitt Solar | Rogers – with 45 years of experience in the Arkansas solar industry, they are Arkansas’ Sunpower Master Dealer.
- Shine Solar | Rogers – resolved to install happiness through whole home energy solutions.
- Hopmann Solar Energy | Dumas – solar solutions focused on solar hot water systems for residential, hotels, restaurants, laundromats, public pools and biomass heating systems to replace traditional fireplaces.
Arkansas Solar Energy Projects
- Searcy Solar Energy Center | Searcy – Entergy’s first battery storage capable solar farm, part of the company’s portfolio of renewable resources moving toward a 2050 goal of net zero energy waste.
- Stuttgart Solar Center| Stuttgart – partners in Entergy’s largest Arkansas solar energy center, creating significant technical jobs in the Delta region.
- Chicot Solar Energy Center | Lake Village – a partnership with NextEra, producing enough wattage to power 16,288 homes.
- Walnut Bend Solar Energy Center | Brinkley – Entergy’s fourth project in its fleet of solar centers, gathering 100 megawatts of energy, the largest solar energy project in the state.
- Large solar projects are under construction in Newport, Woodruff County, West Memphis, Big Cypress, Driver and Crooked Lake.
Community Involvement Drives Solar Adoption
Community involvement has played a crucial role in adopting solar power in Arkansas and creating a culture of sustainability. From grassroots campaigns to educate homeowners on the benefits of solar energy to community-based solar projects, there has been a collective effort to increase the use of renewable energy sources in the state. As more people become aware of the benefits of renewable energy, they are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and promote a cleaner environment.
Local organizations have taken the lead in promoting solar power. For example, the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association works to promote and expand advanced energy technologies, including solar power, throughout the state. In addition, the organization provides policy advocacy, workforce development and education to accelerate the adoption of clean energy.
Looking forward, the future of solar power in Arkansas is bright. The state has set ambitious renewable energy goals, which include generating 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. With the support of the community and the government, Arkansas is well-positioned to lead the way in solar energy and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Images used with permission from New Farm Solar.
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