Best 5 Solar Companies in University City, MO

University City residents are committed to preserving its natural resources and living sustainably. That's why many homeowners are purchasing panels from the best solar professionals for their homes. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $880 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installation team can help you select the best panels to maximize your savings. Discover University City's best solar companies and learn vital decision-making tips on this page.

Ranking Methodology

We assessed a multitude of University City solar installers, using the following criteria to choose the superior:

• Educational approach: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should utilize their years of experience address your questions on how to look after your system and maximize its performance.
• Customer reviews and feedback: Most University City solar installers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio reflects a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
• Certifications and credentials: Each company on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the University City community for over 15 years.
• Service offerings and warranties: Solar installers should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each provider responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer happiness.
• Panel quality and brand offerings: The top solar companies remain current on new technology, providing equipment from innovative, dependable manufacturers.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy offers numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced carbon footprint: Utilizing solar is a surefire way to minimize your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
• Better energy independence: Solar energy can keep your home running through emergencies and blackouts, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery backup system.
• Lowered energy bills: With solar panels, you generate power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-connected power. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. 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.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to University City Homeowners?

Missouri homeowners who go solar could qualify for special financing, rebates, tax credits and reimbursements. Here are just a few of the local incentive programs.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in University City

The price and efficacy of solar panels often rely on the solar company that mounted them. Consider each of these factors in your company 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 companies can also obtain certificates from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious 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 University City

The kind of solar panels you select determines how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.

Additional accessories, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will raise your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar contractors include these add-ons, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's important for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $16,850 for a five-kilowatt solar array in University City. This table shows more specific prices for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in University City

Choosing the optimal financing plan will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, cash payments, loans, and leases. We recommend making a cash payment or securing a solar loan for the best 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 have full ownership of 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 pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) allows you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the panels and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each business you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in University City.

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.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy