Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Adopting solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Smaller power bills: Sourcing some or all of your own power will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that allow you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have reliable energy during storms and grid outages.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Blue Springs Homeowners?
Governments and utilities often incentivize homeowners for embracing solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits or other programs you could qualify for.
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: powermoves.comIncentive Amount:
Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $500
Variable Speed Pool Pump: $250
Air-Source Heat Pump: $250 - $750
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500
Heat Pump Water Heater: $400/unit
HVAC: Varies depending on ZIP code. See program website
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: central.libertyutilities.comIncentive Amount:
$0.25 per watt for systems operational between July 1, 2019, and December 31, 2023
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: ameren.comIncentive Amount:
Air-Source Heat Pump: $500-$900
Ductless Air-Source Heat Pump: $300-$500
Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $175-$200
Ground Source Heat Pump: $800-$2,000
Central Air Conditioner: $300-$500
Electronically Commutated Motor (ECM): $50-$100
Air Conditioner/Heat Pump Tune-Up: $75
Incentive Type: PACE Financing
Incentive Amount:
Financing contracts limited to 20 years or less; improvements must display a positive economic benefit over the life of the contract.
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Blue Springs
The more informed your company investigation is, the better your solar panels will ultimately operate. Consider all of these factors in your company search.
Licensing and Training
In Missouri, it's purely up to cities and counties issue contracting licenses. However, all contractors must register with the Missouri Secretary of State. Solar installers can also pursue accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The top ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Blue Springs
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.
Additional components, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar company includes these additional features, so look for a company that installs them if it's a priority for you.
You can plan to spend about $16,850 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Blue Springs. Check the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Blue Springs solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,139 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $888 |
| Thin-Film | $519 |
| Solar Battery | $729 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,733 |
Financing Solar Energy in Blue Springs
Choosing the best financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include leases, cash payments, loans, and power purchase agreements. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Much like a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Look for providers that offer several payment plans to find the right fit for your financial needs.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Blue Springs.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to recently-purchased solar equipment purchased through 2032. Extra incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.3 years |
| 2 kW | 4.5 years |
| 5 kW | 11.3 years |
| 10 kW | 22.7 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Blue Springs
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy readily available in Blue Springs?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after adopting solar power?
How can I assess my home's solar viability?
Is installing solar panels a quick job?
How do I care for my new solar system?
How can I enhance my solar system's performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
You might think about a PPA if you don’t want to be responsible for maintenance and don’t want to invest in a system, but keep in mind you won’t be paying toward ownership or be able to access any solar financial incentives. Many solar experts don’t recommend PPAs. Our guide covers other payment options above.
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