Louisiana vs Arkansas Solar Incentives: Which State Gets the Better Deal?
Side-by-side comparison of Louisiana and Arkansas solar incentive programs in 2026: state tax credits, net metering rules, exemptions, payback period, and projected 25-year savings.
| Metric | LA · Louisiana | AR · Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Monthly Bill | $195 | $155 |
| Peak Sun Hours / Day | 4.9 | 5 ◆ |
| Avg $/Watt Installed | $2.85 ◆ | $2.95 |
| State Tax Credit | None | None |
| Net Metering | retail | retail |
| SREC Market | No | No |
| Property Tax Exempt | No | No |
| Sales Tax Exempt | No | No |
| Payback, pre-credit model (yrs) | 8.5 ◆ | 9.1 |
| 25-yr savings, pre-credit model | $34,700 ◆ | $30,200 |
Payback and 25-year savings were modeled while the federal residential credit applied. They are not a 2026 quote. The calculator uses $0 federal credit and state incentives only.
State Tax Credit Comparison
Louisiana offers no state income tax credit. Arkansas offers no state income tax credit.
Net Metering Policies
Louisiana: retail rate net metering active. Arkansas: retail rate net metering active.
Net metering is often the most economically significant solar policy because it determines how excess production is valued. Retail-rate states (where you receive full retail price for exported energy) have substantially better solar economics than avoided-cost or no-net-metering states.
Average 25-Year Savings
Louisiana: $34,700 over 25 years (avg payback 8.5 yrs). Arkansas: $30,200 over 25 years (avg payback 9.1 yrs).
Verdict: Which State Wins on Solar?
Louisiana edges out Arkansas on lifetime savings primarily due to more favorable net metering rules.
Note: state averages mask significant within-state variation. Your specific utility, roof orientation, and household electricity profile drive your actual numbers — use the calculator to model your home directly.