Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy has multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Lower energy bills: Producing some or all of your own energy will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that enable you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on fossil fuels.
- Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during grid outages and storms.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Jefferson City Homeowners?
Missouri homeowners who upgrade to solar could qualify for special financing, rebates, reimbursements and tax credits. Here are just a few of the area's incentive offerings.
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 Jefferson City
The purchase price and efficiency of solar panels often depend on the solar company that mounted them. Here are some key items to consider while shopping for a solar company.
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. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Jefferson City
Your solar panels' type will influence how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.
Additional system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar provider offers these optional components, so look for a company that installs them if it's essential for you.
A majority of Jefferson City homeowners choose solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $16,850 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,118 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $872 |
Thin-Film | $510 |
Solar Battery | $715 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,683 |
Financing Solar Energy in Jefferson City
Choosing the optimal financing solution will affect your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include cash payments, power purchase agreements, leases, and loans. We recommend making a cash payment or securing a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in specific circumstances. Ask each provider you're considering about the financing options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the best option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Jefferson City.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.
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 Jefferson City
How much money could I save by going solar in Jefferson City?
Is solar energy readily available in Jefferson City?
Should I expect a boost in my property value after switching to solar energy?
What can I do to predict my home's solar viability?
How long does an average solar system last?
What maintenance do my solar panels need, and how frequently do they need it?
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from specialty lenders, local banks, the government and installer. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are more expensive, and you'll be responsible for maintenance, you'll also have full ownership rights and can apply for many more incentives.
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