Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home functioning through emergencies and blackouts. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.
- Smaller power bills: Sourcing some or all of your own energy will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that make it possible for you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power means you're less dependent on fossil fuels, which emit harmful greenhouse gasses.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Florissant Homeowners?
Governments and utilities often incentivize homeowners for switching to solar. Here are some of the tax credits, rebates, 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: Rebate Program
Website: cuivre.comIncentive Amount:
Water Heater: $50
Ground-Source Heat Pumps: $750/ton
Ground-Source Heat Pump Replacement: $150/ton
Dual Fuel Heat Pumps: $150/ton
Basement/Crawl space/slab insulation: 50% of installed cost
Advanced Thermostat: 50% of installed cost
Heat Pump Water Heater: 50% of installed cost
Window Air Conditioning: 50% of installed cost
Business Lighting Rebate: Varies, visit program website or contact utility for details
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 Florissant
The price and efficiency of solar panels often hinge on the provider that installed them. Consider all of these elements in your contractor search.
Licensing and Training
In Missouri, cities and counties have the right to issue contracting licenses. However, all contractors must register with the Missouri Secretary of State. Solar installers can also earn certificates 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 Florissant
The kind of solar panels you purchase dictates how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.
Additional system add-ons, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar provider includes these optional components, so look for a company that sells them if it's crucial for you.
A majority of Florissant homeowners select solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $16,850 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,164 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $908 |
Thin-Film | $531 |
Solar Battery | $745 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,793 |
Financing Solar Energy in Florissant
Solar installers use multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar leases, cash payments and solar loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car loan or mortgage, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in particular circumstances. Look for installers that offer several payment plans to find the right fit for your pocket.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Florissant.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new residential 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 Florissant
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
How common is solar energy in Florissant?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after going solar?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a rainy, dark, or wooded area?
Is solar panel installation a quick job?
What maintenance do my solar panels need, and how often do they need it?
How does "net metering" work, and do I need to participate?
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