Solar Panels in Mississippi (2026 Guide)
Mississippi has solid sun and a real net metering program — better than several of its neighbors — but it also has lower-than-average electricity rates and some utility limits to watch. With the federal tax credit gone for 2026 buyers, your savings now depend on net metering, a couple of tax exemptions, and how your home uses power.
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How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Mississippi?
In 2026, installed residential solar runs about $2.50–$3.50 per watt before incentives:
- 5 kW system: ~$13,000–$17,500
- 8 kW system: ~$20,000–$28,000 (often quoted around $22,400)
- 10 kW system: ~$25,000–$35,000
Since incentives here are modest, comparing quotes is the biggest lever on your final cost. See our 2026 cost breakdown.
Mississippi Solar Incentives in 2026
No federal tax credit for 2026 buyers
The 30% federal residential credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025. The remaining federal benefit reaches homeowners only through leases and PPAs (48E through 2027).
Sales tax exemption
Mississippi exempts qualifying residential solar equipment from sales tax.
Property tax exemption
The added home value from solar is exempt from residential property tax.
Low-income net metering adders
Entergy Mississippi and Mississippi Power offer extra credit for qualifying low-income customers (see below). For the national picture, see our 2026 incentives guide.
Net Metering in Mississippi — How You're Paid
Mississippi's strongest point. The Public Service Commission requires investor-owned utilities to offer net metering. In 2026, excess power is credited at avoided cost plus a 2.5¢/kWh adder (Entergy Mississippi's export value is about 5.5¢/kWh for most customers). Income-qualified customers can receive around 7.5¢/kWh, and the first 1,000 qualifying low-income customers (≤225% of the federal poverty level) get an extra 2¢/kWh adder for 15 years. Watch-out: net metering has a capacity cap per utility — once hit, new customers can be pushed to a less favorable plan. Confirm it's still open before signing.
Is Solar Worth It in Mississippi?
Often yes — but with eyes open. Two things work against quick payback: the lost federal credit and Mississippi's below-average electricity rates (~11¢/kWh vs. ~16¢ nationally). Solar tends to be worth it if you use a lot of electricity, still have net metering available, plan to stay long-term, and have a good sun-facing roof. A custom quote is the only way to get a real payback number.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Mississippi in 2026?
About $2.50–$3.50 per watt — ~$13,000–$17,500 for 5 kW, ~$22,400 for a common 8 kW system.
Does Mississippi have net metering?
Yes — avoided cost + 2.5¢ adder (~5.5¢/kWh for most Entergy MS, ~7.5¢ income-qualified). Watch capacity caps.
Does Mississippi have a solar tax credit?
No state or federal credit in 2026, but sales- and property-tax exemptions.
Is solar worth it in Mississippi?
For many — heavy users with net metering and a good roof. Lower rates make payback longer; run your numbers.
What incentives are left in Mississippi in 2026?
Sales and property tax exemptions, net metering with avoided-cost-plus-adder credits, and low-income adders.