Tiffin, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $48,666
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:  12.6 kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 113%
Over the next 30 years, this 12.6 kW solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 113 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 11 tons of coal, 2,038 trees planted or driving a car 196,885 miles.

Marietta, Ohio Case Study

Project Overview

  • Lifetime Cost Savings: $49,751
  • System Type: Roof Mounted solar system
  • System Size:ย  13 kW
  • Annual Electricity Offset: 80%
Over the next 30 years, this 13kWย solar array is expected to offset the homeowners annual energy by 80 percent. in greenhouse emissions, the systems savings is equivalent to saving 8 tons of coal, 1,626trees planted or driving a car 157,055 miles.

FranklinWH

As more homeowners look for more grid independence, FranklinWH stands out with its intelligent, scalable, and future-proof energy solution. Designed to meet your evolving energy needs, FranklinWH offers a thorough home energy system that adapts as your needs grow.

What is FranklinWH?

FranklinWH is a fully integrated home energy management system that connects solar, battery storage, grid power, generators, and EV charging. Franklin is designed for long-term reliability with continuous battery backup during outages and peak demand times โ€“ if youโ€™re looking to reduce your reliance on the grid and future-proof your home, FranklinWH is a great choice.

aPower 2 Battery

The aPower2 battery has a high capacity with 15 kWh of storage and 10 kW continuous output. The aPower 2 can easily power large appliances and essential loads at the same time, even during blackouts. Itโ€™s built with safe lithium iron phosphate and wrapped in a weatherproof design; itโ€™s quiet, durable, and dependable, with a 15-year warranty and over 10,000 charge cycles.

Power that can grow with you

If you need more power, thatโ€™s not a problem with FranklinWH โ€“ they make it easy to expand. With FranklinWH, you can add up to 15 aPower 2 batteries, which total up to 225 kWh. FranklinWH can handle it all, large homes, air conditioning, EVs, expanding solar systems, etc. You can even upgrade your current system, making it perfect for families planning to expand their energy capacity as their needs grow.

Why Franklin outperforms other brands

  • Battery stacking: Each aPower2 increases the system output, allowing for enhanced energy capacity as needed.
  • Generous storage: 15 kWh per battery and an extra 1 kWh reserved for system support, FranklinWH delivers more storage for your homeโ€™s energy needs
  • Simple expansion: Expand your system without adding additional inverters
  • FranklinWH handles larger systems, meeting the energy demands of bigger homes and growing households, making it perfect for large homes.

Smart Load Management

FranklinWH has three smart circuits that independently control critical and non-critical loads, it automatically starts/stops high-energy devices during an outage, thereโ€™s even a customizable circuit for EV charging, and it extends your battery life by managing load priorities.

Additional Features that make FranklinWH great

  • Black start capabilities: automatically restart your solar system after a long outage
  • Visual LED state of Charge: Customizable lighting, and it gives you a visual on storage volume.
  • No Cycle limit warranty: 15-year warranty based on energy instead of cycles
  • AC coupling Support: Perfect for retrofits and larger loads
  • PV inverter agnostic: Works with existing solar inverters
  • Quiet: 67% quieter than other home management systems, convection cooled for near-silent operation near living spaces
  • Heat: Itโ€™s designed to perform in high-temperature conditions

 

FranklinWH is a complete, future-ready, battery backup system built to adapt, expand, and deliver peace of mind. Whether youโ€™re going solar, expanding your current system, looking to enhance your homeโ€™s resilience, or upgrading for EV readiness, Franklin WH offers a smarter, quieter, more powerful solution.

 

 

Solar Myths

Solar has become one of the most promising and sustainable solutions for homeowners looking to lower their energy costs and minimize their environmental impact.ย  Although solar is quite popular, several myths still exist about going solar – misconceptions that can discourage people from making the switch. Here are some commonย solar myths.

Myth #1 โ€“ Solar doesnโ€™t work when it is raining

People can utilize solar in almost any environment, including rain and snow, because the sun still reaches theย Earth.ย Battery backupย is another solution, providing energy at night and when the sunโ€™s not shining.

Myth #2 โ€“ Solar is too expensive

While cost varies for solar, you donโ€™t have to pay it all upfront if you donโ€™t have the means to do so, many companies, including Kokosing Solar, offer financing options. One of our solar experts will be happy to go over that with you during a consultation. Financing will allow you to pay for your system over time.

There are also local, state, and federal incentives that you can take advantage of to offset the total cost.

Myth #3 โ€“ Solar panels are too difficult to maintain

Solar panels require low maintenance; rain usually washes off dirt and debris, keeping them performing at their best.

You may need occasional inspections and cleaning, but solar panels require minimal upkeep.

Myth #4 โ€“ Solar Panels decrease the value of a home

Solar panels do not decrease the value of your home: in fact, they do the opposite!ย Homes with solar panels often have higher resale values because some buyers seek energy savings and environmental benefits. Homes with solar installations tend to sell faster and for higher prices compared to homes without. The home values may increase depending on the location, size of the system, and the local real estate market. Overall, people see solar panels as a home improvement.

Myth #5ย โ€“ Free Solar from the Governmentย 

If you think free solar sounds too good to be true, thatโ€™s because it is! Although there are government incentives out there, nothing will cover your system’s expenses entirely. If someone claims your solar will be free, they’re likely trying to scam you or win your business at any cost.

Misleading ads claim local grant programs for homeowners, but solar has never been freeโ€”youโ€™ll always pay for something.

Myth #6 โ€“ Going Solar is going Off-Grid

In most cases, youโ€™re not going off-grid. If you live in a residential area, you will likely use a grid-tied system. This means you’re connected to the grid, earning credits for excess energy sent back, which can offset electricity costs at night or on cloudy days, while still having a backup power source when your panels aren’t producing enough energy.

Myth #7 โ€“ Solar is too complicated

Although professionals handle the setup, solar panels use straightforward technology and aren’t overly complicated. A professional will evaluate your roof’s condition, angle, and sunlight exposure to determine if solar panels are a good fit, then design a system tailored to your energy needs and roof.ย  Yourย installerย will take care of all the permits and approvals for local authorities or utility companies. Lastly, technicians will mount the panels, connect the system to your electrical panel, and ensure they integrate it safely with the grid. Then, the utility company will activate your system.

Myth #8 โ€“ Solar is unreliable

Many people believe energy is unreliable because the sun doesn’t shine 24/7, while this is true, solar can pair with energy storage systems that allow homeowners to store excess energy during sunny periods and use it on cloudy days. Solar is far from unreliable, with advancements in energy storage and integration into the grid, solar provides a stable and continuous energy supply.

In conclusion, solar energy provides a reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for homeowners looking to cut energy bills and reduce their environmental impact. Advances in technology and available incentives have debunked myths about solar being expensive, hard to maintain, or unreliable. With grid-tied systems and low-maintenance panels, solar is a practical choice for nearly any home. Financing, tax incentives, and energy storage options make going solar more accessible than many believe.

Why is my electric bill so high in Ohio this summer

Why Is My Electric Bill So High in Ohio This Summer? The Real Reasons Behind 2025’s Electric Rate Spikesโ€”and What to Do

Ohioans Are Asking: Why Are Electricity Bills Skyrocketing in Summer 2025?ย 

If you opened your electric bill this summer and were shocked by a significant jump in your total charges, you’re not alone. Many Ohio residentsโ€”including AEP Ohio customersโ€”are seeing electric rates rise by 10% to 30%, depending on how their electricity is supplied.ย 

So, whatโ€™s behind the increase, and what can you do to take control of your energy costs?ย 

Letโ€™s break it down.

1.The Main Culprit: Skyrocketing Generation Supply Costs

If you’re on AEP Ohio’s Standard Service Offer (SSO)โ€”which means you haven’t chosen your own energy supplierโ€”your generation supply charge increased by about $27/month starting in June 2025 (based on 1,000 kWh usage). Thatโ€™s nearly a 28% jump.ย 

๐Ÿ’ก These are โ€œpass-throughโ€ charges from the wholesale electricity market, where energy suppliers bid to serve your home.ย 

ย 2. Why Generation Prices Are Up: PJM Capacity Auction Shock

Ohioโ€™s power grid is managed by PJM, a regional transmission organization that spans 13 states. Each year, PJM holds an auction where energy suppliers bid to reserve power capacity for future demand.ย 

In the 2024 auction for the 2025-2026 cycle, capacity prices surged by 833% compared to the previous year. That cost gets passed directly to you as part of your generation charges.ย 

๐Ÿ“ˆ Why the Surge?ย 

  • Increased demand from state population growth, heat waves, and the expansion of data centers.ย 
  • Decreased supply as older coal and gas plants retire faster than new sources come online.ย 
  • Regulatory lag in approving new energy projects.ย 

3. Not Everyoneโ€™s Paying Moreโ€”Hereโ€™s Why

If youโ€™ve:ย 

  • Chosen a competitive energy supplier with a fixed-rate plan, orย 
  • Participate in a governmental aggregation program, your bill may not have spikedโ€”or not as much.ย 

This is because these customers are not on AEP Ohioโ€™s SSO and may be locked into more favorable rates secured before the capacity price hike.ย 

๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Check out energychoice.ohio.gov to see if switching suppliers could save you money.ย 

4.Are There Any Decreases on Your Bill?

Yesโ€”though they may not offset the increases. This summer we saw:ย ย 

  • Transmission charges dropped by about $9/monthย 
  • Distribution-related charges dropped by around $5/monthย 

But if youโ€™re an SSO customer, youโ€™re still looking at a net increase of about $13/month or more.

5. How to Take Back Control of Your Energy Costs

Electricity prices are volatile and largely out of your controlโ€”but your energy usage and sourcing aren’t. Hereโ€™s what you can do right now:ย 

โœ… 1. Shop for a Fixed-Rate Electricity Supplierย 

Visit the PUCO Apples to Apples comparison tool and explore fixed-rate plans to avoid future shocks.ย 

โœ… 2. Go Solar and Generate Your Own Powerย 

Solar energy puts the power back in your handsโ€”literally. With a rooftop or ground-mounted solar system:ย 

  • You can lock in predictable electricity costs for decades.ย 
  • Avoid supply auctions and pass-through market volatility.ย 
  • Take advantage of federal solar tax credits and net metering incentives in Ohio.ย 

๐Ÿ’ฌ Kokosing Solar specializes in helping homeowners and businesses in Ohio make the switch to clean, affordable solar power.

6. Looking Ahead: Will This Get Better in 2026?

Thereโ€™s some hope. PJM has introduced market reforms that cap future capacity prices. That could mean smaller increases in 2026 and beyond.ย 

But with extreme weather and energy demand still rising, volatility will likely continue.ย 

 

โ˜€๏ธ Want Protection from the Next Rate Spike?ย 

Talk to Kokosing Solar about going solar and taking control of your energy future. With a system custom-designed for your home or business, youโ€™ll never have to ask โ€œWhy is my electric bill so high in Ohio this summer?โ€ again.ย 

๐Ÿ“ž Contact Us Today or request your free solar consultation.ย 

ย 

ย ย 

Blackman Solar Garden Groundbreaking

Blackman Solar Garden Groundbreaking

BLACKMAN TOWNSHIP, Mich., May 2, 2025 โ€“ Kokosing Solar joined local leaders, Consumers Energy representatives, and members of the Jackson County community today for the Blackman Solar Gardens groundbreaking โ€”a 2.5 megawatt (MW) community solar facility that will power approximately 2,500 homes and businesses when completed by the end of 2025.ย 

The ceremony marked the official start of construction on Consumers Energyโ€™s fourth community solar facility, expanding its Solar Gardens program. Spanning 30 acres and featuring nearly 5,000 solar panels, the Blackman Solar Gardens site will offer Michiganders a new opportunity to participate in renewable energy without installing solar panels on their own homes or properties.ย 

“We want to continue working with the community as we build Blackman Solar. And we hope to find more opportunities in the future. We want to collaborate with more local leaders interested in developments just like Blackman Solar.โ€ said David Hicks, Consumers Energyโ€™s Vice President of Clean Energy Development.ย 

As the design-build contractor, Kokosing Solar will manage all phases of construction, including sitework, single-axis tracker installation, panel and inverter installation, and system commissioning.ย 

Brady Phillips, Vice President of Kokosing Industrialโ€™s Private Industrial Group, addressed attendees during the groundbreaking event.ย 

โ€œWeโ€™re honored to be part of this forward-looking project for Jackson County and the state of Michigan,โ€ said Phillips. โ€œKokosing has been building essential infrastructure since 1951, and our solar division has delivered solar projects since 2000โ€”25 years of navigating the โ€˜solar coaster.โ€™ Weโ€™ve gained resilience, expertise, and a deep commitment to quality.โ€ย 

Phillips emphasized Kokosing Solarโ€™s local hiring and focus on skilled union labor, noting that 20 local tradespeople will be employed at peak construction. โ€œThese are good-paying, future-focused jobs that stay right here in the community,โ€ he added.ย 

Construction is underway and will continue throughout the year. The Blackman Solar Gardens facility is expected to begin generating renewable electricity by December 2025.ย 

Kokosing Solar is proud to partner with Consumers Energy on a project that provides long-term value to Michiganโ€™s ratepayers while helping the state transition toward a more sustainable energy future. Project updates and construction milestones will be shared in the months ahead.ย 

ย 

solar battery tax credit 2025

Can You Claim the 30% Tax Credit for Battery Storage After Your Solar Panels Are Installed?

In 2025 you’re wondering if the solar tax credit applies to batteries. If youโ€™ve already installed a solar energy system on your home and claimed the 30% federal tax credit, you might be wondering: Can I still claim that same tax credit later if I decide to add battery storage?ย 

Itโ€™s a commonโ€”and importantโ€”question, especially as more homeowners look to add energy storage to maximize their solar investment. While weโ€™re not tax professionals and always recommend speaking with a licensed tax advisor, hereโ€™s what we do know based on current IRS guidance and precedent rulings.ย 

Short Answer: Yes, You Canโ€”If It Meets IRS Requirementsย 

Thanks to the Solar Tax Credit (otherwise known as the ITC, or Investment Tax Credit), homeowners who install eligible battery storage systems in 2023 through 2032 can claim a 30% tax credit on the full cost of the battery system, even if itโ€™s installed after the solar panelsโ€”as long as it meets certain criteria.ย 

This tax credit covers:ย 

  • The cost of the batteryย 
  • Installation laborย 
  • Wiring and equipment needed to integrate the battery with your existing solar energy systemย 

This is supported not only by the current IRS guidelines, but also by IRS Private Letter Ruling 201809003, which confirms that a battery added after solar panels can still qualify as a โ€œqualified solar electric property expenditureโ€ if it:ย 

  1. Is used to store solar energy, andย 
  2. Is charged exclusively by the solar system.ย 

 

What the IRS Says About Battery Storageย 

According to the IRS Residential Clean Energy Credit page, you can claim 30% of the cost of new, qualified battery storage technology with a minimum capacity of 3 kWh. This credit applies to battery systems installed from January 1, 2023, onward.ย 

Key qualifications:ย 

  • The battery must be new (not used).ย 
  • It must be installed in your primary or secondary residence in the U.S.ย 
  • If the battery is charged by your solar panels and used solely for home energy, it’s likely to qualify.ย 
  • The tax credit is nonrefundable, but unused credit can be carried forward to future tax years.ย 

How the Tax Credit Applies When Installed Laterย 

Hereโ€™s the good news: If you claimed the 30% tax credit for your solar panel system in one tax year, you can still claim a separate 30% credit in a future year if you later add battery storage.ย 

Your battery system is treated as its own qualifying project, and the IRS considers the โ€œexpenditure madeโ€ when the battery is installed, not when the solar system was placed in service. That means:ย 

  • Youโ€™ll file Form 5695 for the tax year the battery was installed.ย 
  • You can claim 30% of the battery system cost, assuming it meets IRS eligibility.ย 

Best Practices to Ensure Solar Battery Tax Credit 2025

To maximize your chance of qualifying:ย 

  • Ensure your battery is charged only by solar energy. IRS precedent strongly supports storage systems that are solar-charged only.ย 
  • Keep documentation showing how your system is integrated and how the battery charges.ย 
  • Choose a qualified installer who can certify the battery is used for solar energy storage.ย 

Why Add Battery Storage Later?ย 

Many homeowners install solar panels first and add batteries later due to:ย 

  • Budget considerationsย 
  • Technological improvementsย 
  • Grid reliability concernsย 
  • Interest in time-of-use optimization or blackout protectionย 

Adding batteries later gives you flexibilityโ€”and thanks to the IRSโ€™s current guidance, it can still be financially advantageous.ย 

Solar Battery Tax Credit 2025

Yesโ€”you can still claim the 30% solar battery tax credit in 2025, even if you add the battery after your solar panels. The IRS has made it clear that energy storage qualifies as long as it meets the proper criteria and is installed in a separate tax year. But as always, speak with your tax professional before making financial decisions.ย 

And if you’re considering battery storage to complement your solar system, Kokosing Solar can help you design and install a system that qualifies for federal incentives and delivers reliable, renewable power.ย 

Interested in Adding Battery Storage to Your Solar System?
Contact Kokosing Solar today for a no-obligation consultation and learn how we can help you maximize your energy independence and your tax credit.ย 

ย 

Get Started

Get Started