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Best Solar Companies in Missouri

We compared 81 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Blue Raven Solar
      4.6(263)
    • ION Solar
      4.4(115)
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(159)
    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Missouri

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Blue Raven Solar logo
    ION Solar logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

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    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      To choose our top picks for this guide, We compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read our full methodology for all the details.

      Our top solar company picks

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
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      The best solar companies, reviewed

      2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
      Blue Raven Solar
      Blue Raven Solar
      4.6
      263 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2014
      Learn More Read Reviews

      Blue Raven Solar installs top-tier equipment to maximize energy production. It also has a unique financing option that combines aspects of a solar lease with the flexibility of solar panel ownership. This is potentially a smart deal for Missouri homeowners who want to switch to clean energy while still saving on overall monthly expenses. Plus, you aren’t affected when electricity rates increase over time.

      • “Courteous and friendly staff. Respectful of our property. They were on time and everything went smoothly from beginning to completion of installation.” — Helen in Independence 
      • “The workers were very friendly and it took no time to install. They explained what to expect since the install was completed on a Saturday.” — Phyllis in Independence

      Blue Raven gets positive feedback from Missouri customers, but some reviewers in other states have reported communication issues. Additionally, it might not have as many equipment brand partners as some of our other top picks.

      Blue Raven Solar advisors use proprietary software to design systems that maximize your annual energy output based on your roof specifics and local weather patterns. The company is available in Kansas City.

      Blue Raven Solar services

      • Consulting and design
      • Professional installations
      • Financing solutions
      • System monitoring

      Blue Raven Solar has a standard 25-year warranty. Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer. The company offers the FranklinWH aPower battery (12-year warranty) and the Tesla Powerwall 3 (10-year warranty).

      • Cash: You can pay upfront and get immediate ownership of the solar panel system.
      • BluePower: This fixed monthly payment option lets you go solar without a significant upfront cost. There’s no prepayment penalty, and the plan is transferable to a new homeowner if you ever sell your house.
      • BluePower Plus+: Eligible customers can pay $0 upfront, get 18 months of free solar power and make fixed monthly payments after that. You own the system and are responsible for maintenance.

      Pros

      • Quality solar equipment
      • Flexible payment options
      • No-upfront-cost options
      • Energy storage options

      Cons

      • Occasional installation delays
      • Some communication issues
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation
      Our pick for customer service
      ION Solar
      ION Solar
      4.4
      115 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      21.9%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2013
      Learn More Read Reviews

      ION Solar stands out for its professionalism, quality workmanship, strong customer service and a generally smooth installation process. We suggest getting a personalized quote to see if ION Solar is right for you.

      • “They're very communicative. The presentation was very detailed, informative and helped us decide to go solar. Also, The installation was seamless. They were done within a day. … ION Solar sticks to their deadlines.” — Melvyn in Kansas City

      We think ION Solar could be a little more transparent about its financing options and additional services provided. “I was told that our rate will never change from 94 a month, but what I've got in the mail is a little bit confusing,” Amanda in St. Louis told us. “It looks like it might go up by about $40 in the next 15 months.”

      ION Solar operates in several states. It’s NABCEP-certified. Installers use Silfab solar panels and Enphase microinverters. Most projects are completed in 60 to 90 days.

      ION Solar services

      • Solar system design and installations
      • Roofing services
      • Energy production monitoring
      • Ongoing system maintenance

      ION Solar panels are guaranteed to produce at least 85% capacity for 30 years. Enphase microinverters come with a 25-year warranty. All work performed on your home during the installation is covered for 10 years. If there’s anything wrong with your panel or process, you can contact the customer service team for support.

      You can purchase the system outright or finance it through a solar loan. Rates and terms vary.

      Pros

      • Sleek, black-on-black panels
      • No upfront payment required
      • 24/7 monitoring
      • Solid warranty
      • Good reviews

      Cons

      • Doesn't offer maintenance or repair services
      • Some communication issues
      • Some installation delays
      2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
      ShopSolar
      ShopSolar
      4.7
      159 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      Varies
      Year founded
      2018
      Read Reviews

      ShopSolar is an awesome place to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. It has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication. You can find just about everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup on homes, RVs and outbuildings.

      • “We were looking for an off-grid solar kit deal and started looking around, and ShopSolarKits was the most reasonably priced. I put up everything myself. It was super easy. … They've been extremely helpful and nice to work with. Our solar is running everything. This winter, when everybody's losing power because of the storms, we didn't have that issue.” — Kevin in Richwoods
      • “I like the kit so far. I wanted something that if I was out boondocking, I could run an air conditioner without any power for five or six hours, and that was the only kit that I found. I have been using it to power my drills and saws, but I haven't got to take it out and utilize it all night.” — Frank in Neosho

      The installation process is generally described as easy, thanks to clear instructions and helpful resources provided by ShopSolar. However, it can be challenging for those with limited knowledge or experience in solar systems. Joe in Aldrich told us he “had to do some dinkydonking” to get ShopSolar to honor the price-match guarantee.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment like generators, batteries, cables and racks. You can find top-quality brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days. 

      ShopSolar products

      • New and used solar panels
      • Solar generator bundles
      • Batteries, inverters, mounts and racks
      • Additional hardware and accessories

      ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.

      You pay for your order in full upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. It also has financing options for as little as $0 down.

      • Online payments: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International.
      • Financing: ShopSolar partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Annual percentage rates (APRs) range from 0% to 36%.

      Pros

      • Free shipping
      • Price-match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Lifetime customer support

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      Missouri solar panel buyers guide

      If you've been thinking about going solar in Missouri but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. We’ve heard from over 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018, including dozens in Missouri. Here’s what to expect and what to look out for.

      Key insights

      In Missouri, a typical residential solar panel system costs $10,150 to $29,000, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for most homeowners buying solar panels in Missouri.

      Jump to insight

      Watch out for door-to-door solar scams. Some solar reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      Jump to insight

      What to look for in a solar company in Missouri

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Missouri. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

      • Check certifications: You can verify a contractor’s license through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. We also suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring red flags: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Missouri.
      • Read the fine print: Make sure you understand everything about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services.

      How much does it cost to go solar in Missouri?

      Average solar panel costs in Missouri typically range between $10,150 and $29,000. The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance add to overall costs as well.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. “Cost per watt” is similar to the price per square foot when you buy a house. It helps you compare the value of solar energy systems in different sizes. In Missouri, the average cost per watt is $2.90.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Missouri

      Do I need a solar battery?

      Keep in mind that solar quotes don’t always include the cost of a solar storage battery. Sometimes, those are almost as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid.

      » GREENEST STATES: Missouri ranked 46th in 2024

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many finance instead. A solar loan works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay it back over time with interest. Columbia Water & Light offers solar loans up to $15,000 for residential projects and $30,000 for commercial projects.

      Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years.

      Leasing solar equipment is attractive to people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system. PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing is another option in Missouri. Set the PACE St. Louis and the Missouri Energy Savings Program (MOESP) offer PACE programs.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Are solar panels worth it in Missouri?

      Going solar is worth it for a lot of people in Missouri. Several residents we’ve talked to shared positive experiences after switching to solar power, highlighting the financial savings and environmental benefits.

      For residents like Donald from Sikeston, there’s virtually no downside. “It pays for itself, helps us improve the quality of air we breathe and increases the value of our home,” he said. “We're very fortunate to have our solar power, and the savings it provides us.”

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      Christopher in Alton is also happy about going solar: “I'm producing more electricity than I'm using. So it's working out well. I even got an electric bill for $0 this month." Some homeowners start saving money almost immediately after installing panels. Even if solar panels don’t immediately eliminate your electric bill, you should pay less each month than you would with traditional utilities.

      For others, like Xander in Columbia, it’s more about the ecological benefits: “I appreciate the lack of guilt I now experience when I flip on the light or use the microwave. The sun is creating this electricity, not some coal burning somewhere.”

      It pays for itself, helps us improve the quality of air we breathe and increases the value of our home. ”
      — Donald in Sikeston

      With electricity costs continuing to rise, more homeowners find solar power is financially worth it in the long run. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 12 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost). On average, Missourians with solar panels can avoid $55,374 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Solar incentives in Missouri

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners. Additional Missouri solar incentives include the Columbia Water & Light rebate program — you can get up to $625 per kW back.

      The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. This tax credit applies to both residential and commercial installations, and it includes the cost of the solar panels and other equipment, as well as labor.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000. The ITC is a nonrefundable credit, meaning you can only claim up to the amount of taxes you owe.

      However, the credit rolls over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount. So, if you only owed $2,000 the year you went solar, you could claim the remaining $1,000 the next taxable year.

      FAQ

      Can I get free solar panels in Missouri?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Missouri. Unfortunately, scams that promise free solar panels can end up costing people quite a bit of money. You can lease solar equipment to reduce your upfront cost. You won’t own your panels with these options, though, so you won’t be eligible for the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Missouri averages 4 to 4.5 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first.

      As a rule of thumb, consider fixing or replacing your roof before going solar if it’s more than 10 years old. If you do replace your roof, expect removing and reinstalling the panels to cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How does net metering work in Missouri?

      Net metering lets homeowners with solar panels sell any excess electricity they generate to their local power grid. In Missouri, utility companies compensate through energy credits on future power bills.

      Net metering in Missouri is considered to be quite favorable, with full retail rate credits and mandatory participation from all utilities. If you generate more electricity than you consume over the course of a year, you may receive some compensation for the excess, although it will likely be at a lower rate than what you pay for electricity.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Missouri customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 10%

      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Reputation and local experience: 10%

      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Missouri. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most Missourians’s needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. DSIRE, "Missouri Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Missouri." Accessed March 29, 202
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Missouri Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Missouri, 2024?" Accessed March 29, 2024
        5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
        6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.

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