Is solar worth it in missouri
Discover the economic and environmental benefits of solar energy in Missouri, from reduced electricity bills to a more sustainable future.
Is Solar Worth it in Missouri?
As the cost of electricity continues to rise, many homeowners in Missouri are considering alternative sources of energy to power their homes. Solar energy has become increasingly popular due to its environmental benefits and potential long-term savings. However, is solar worth it in Missouri? Let's delve into the factors that make solar a viable option for residential properties in this state.
1. Abundant Sunshine:
Missouri may not be known for year-round sunny weather like California, but it does receive enough sunshine to make solar energy an excellent option. The state receives an average of 195 sunny or partly sunny days per year, providing a substantial amount of energy potential for solar panels. Even on cloudy days, solar panels can still generate electricity, although at a lower rate. Additionally, technological advancements have made it possible for solar panels to operate efficiently even in low-light conditions.
2. Net Metering:
Net metering is a crucial policy that makes solar energy financially viable for homeowners in Missouri. Net metering allows homeowners to sell any excess electricity their solar panels generate back to the utility grid. This means that during periods when your solar panels produce more energy than your home consumes, the excess energy is credited to your account. This credit can then be used during times when your panels are not generating enough electricity, such as at night or during cloudy weather. Ultimately, net metering ensures that homeowners receive fair compensation for the excess electricity generated by their solar panels, making solar energy an attractive investment.
3. Federal and State Incentives:
Federal and state incentives make solar energy even more financially appealing in Missouri. The federal government offers a 26% federal solar tax credit, which applies to the total cost of installing solar panels. This tax credit is set to decrease to 22% in 2023, making it beneficial to act sooner rather than later. In addition to the federal tax credit, Missouri offers a state solar rebate program. The exact rebate amount varies depending on the size and type of solar installation but can significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing solar panels on your property. These incentives, combined with net metering, make solar a wise investment in Missouri.
4. Long-Term Savings:
Although the upfront cost of installing solar panels can be significant, it is essential to consider the long-term savings they offer. Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance and have no fuel costs, unlike traditional energy sources. Homeowners can expect to see a significant reduction in their monthly electricity bills, leading to substantial savings over time. Furthermore, as utility rates continue to rise, the savings from solar energy become even more substantial. Investing in solar panels essentially locks in your electricity costs and protects you from future rate increases.
5. Environmental Benefits:
One cannot overlook the environmental benefits of solar energy. By choosing to go solar, homeowners reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and lower their carbon footprint. Solar energy produces clean, renewable electricity that helps to combat climate change and air pollution. By making the switch to solar, homeowners contribute to a greener future for themselves and future generations.
In conclusion, solar energy is undoubtedly worth considering in Missouri. The state's abundant sunshine, net metering policies, federal and state incentives, long-term savings, and environmental benefits make solar energy a viable option for homeowners. While the upfront cost may seem daunting, the long-term financial and environmental advantages make installing solar panels an investment that can pay off in the long run. If you live in Missouri and are concerned about rising energy costs and the environment, going solar is a worthwhile decision.