Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple benefits. Here are some highlights.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power means you're less dependent on fossil fuels, which emit harmful greenhouse gasses.
- Lowered energy bills: Solar panels let you generate your own energy to power your home, minimizing your periodic electricity costs. You can eliminate your bills completely if you go off-grid. Plus, a significant amount of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home running through blackouts and emergencies, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to St. Joseph Homeowners?
Missouri agencies and electric companies offer numerous solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.
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 St. Joseph
The more informed your company research is, the better your photovoltaic system will ultimately operate. Consider all of these criteria in your company search.
Licensing and Training
In Missouri, it's the responsibility of counties and cities issue contracting licenses. However, all contractors must register with the Missouri Secretary of State. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar sector's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in St. Joseph
Your solar modules' style will affect 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 have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.
You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can increase your solar system's performance. Not every solar company offers these optional components, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's important for you.
You can expect to pay about $16,850 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in St. Joseph. Check the table in this section to get an idea of how much St. Joseph solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,147 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $895 |
| Thin-Film | $523 |
| Solar Battery | $734 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,753 |
Financing Solar Energy in St. Joseph
Choosing the right financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include loans, leases, power purchase agreements, and cash payments. We suggest making a cash payment or using 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 cut your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, like an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the panels and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Look for companies that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your wallet.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in St. Joseph.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments 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 St. Joseph
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy readily available in St. Joseph?
Should I expect a property value increase after installing solar panels?
What if I live in a heavily-wooded or dark
What can I do to assess my home's solar viability?
What's the average solar system size in St. Joseph?
How are a solar lease and PPA different?
If you choose a lease, you'll make fixed monthly payments.
With both leases and PPAs, you don't own your panels and lose eligibility for most incentives. Further, you'll have to "buy out" or transfer the contract if you sell your home during the term.
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