Best Solar Companies in Springfield, Missouri

Solar panel costs in Springfield

A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $10,150 to $29,000 in Missouri. Prices in Springfield are comparable, ranging from $9,835 to $28,100.

This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing, like at night or during outages. It’s worth considering if your area gets frequent blackouts or if you don’t opt into Springfield’s net metering program.

System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Springfield household needs a system with a capacity of 10.98 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

Average total solar installation costs by system size in Springfield

How can I pay for solar panels? 

Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease.

• Solar loans work like any other type of loan. They have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright. Missouri also has Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing, which lets you pay your solar loan back through your property tax bill.
• Solar leases are a good option if you have limited savings and don’t want to take on debt. A potential downside to leasing is that you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit.

» SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

Is solar worth it in Springfield?

Solar panels are generally worth it in Missouri if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Springfield homeowners with solar panels can avoid $55,374 in total utility costs over 25 years. "I even got an electric bill for $0 this month," Christopher in Missouri told us.

The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 11.6 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

Considering Missouri averages 4 to 3.5 peak sun hours each day, switching to solar is worth considering. We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator. 

Potential roof problems

As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

» SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

How to find a reputable solar company in Springfield

In our experience, the best solar companies in Missouri have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some hiring tips.

• Check certifications: You can confirm your contractor's license through the city of Springfield's Business License Search tool or by calling 417-864-1617. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
• Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
• Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

» TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

Going solar in Greene County

The area gets a decent amount of sunlight, but it's not as sunny as some southwestern states. Consider your specific location and potential shading from trees when estimating solar production.

» BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Missouri ranked 33rd in 2024

Residential solar panel incentives in Springfield

There are relatively few residential solar incentives in Springfield. Incidentally, the 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the best incentive for most homeowners. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels.

Don’t get confused: The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000. Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year. However, it’s possible to get a refund check if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

You may be able to combine the ITC with local solar incentives in Missouri to maximize savings.