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Last Updated: February 25, 2025
A rooftop solar array will provide you with a renewable power source that will eventually pay for itself. Making the transition to solar energy can help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint, but you want to make sure you find a qualified installer. Luckily, we’ve analyzed local solar installers and compiled a guide to the best solar companies in Columbia. These reputable providers are reliable options known for their quality services.
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on solar companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
Going solar can be a great way to reduce electricity costs and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint using renewable energy. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating if a solar installer is trustworthy.
Hiring a licensed solar installer is critical. This helps ensure that the work is done properly using current best installation practices. 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 consumer review platforms like TrustPilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews to see feedback from past customers about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you assess a company's reliability and customer service. Use caution with providers that have no reviews or mostly negative ones.
Call three to five solar companies for free, itemized quotes. A quote should outline all costs and specify the solar equipment included. Reviewing multiple quotes helps identify the option that aligns with your budget.
High-quality solar installations should come with robust workmanship and performance warranties. The workmanship warranty covers any installation issues like poor wiring, poor alignment, or cracks in the panels. The output warranty ensures an energy generation baseline. Strong warranties reflect a solar provider's faith in its installations.
Solar panels can help lower your electricity costs over time. When weighing solar panel's cost and value, be sure to weigh these considerations.
In Columbia, solar panels cost an average of $3,370 per kilowatt, with an average system size of 7.2 kilowatts. The typical Columbia homeowner spends $17,087 on their solar array after federal tax refunds. An estimate from a local provider will consider additional information reflecting your desired system's required preliminary work, panel type, capacity, and size. In some cases, homeowners may prefer to lease solar panels to reduce upfront costs.
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: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Incentive Amount:
Energy Star Window Air Conditioners: $50
Water Heater: $50
Dual Fuel Heat Pumps, 16.5 SEER and above: $150 per ton
Dual Fuel Heat Pumps, 13 SEER - 16.4 SEER: $300 per system
Geothermal Heat Pumps (Closed Loop): up to $850 per ton
Ground Source Heat Pumps (Open Loop or Replacement): $150 per ton
Blower Door Test: $300
Weatherization: 50% of cost up to $500
Lighting: Lesser of $0.06/kWh or 40% of fixture cost
Incentive 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
A solar photovoltaic (PV) array can generate power to run any electric appliance or system in your home. If you don't want to use solar power for your entire home, you can install a solar heating system for your water.
With home solar energy, you can recoup the cost of the system over time, lower your property's emissions, and be better prepared if there's an outage to the local grid.
Yes. The grid in Columbia already uses a large share of renewable energy sources, and you may be able to sell your excess generated energy to your utility for additional cost savings.
Generally speaking, your energy bills will decrease significantly after you install solar panels. This is because you're using the energy you generate for free rather than buying it from your power company. In Columbia, the average amount someone can save is $1,337 per year. With net metering programs offered by many utilities, you could ultimately make a profit from your system when your payback period is done.
Yes, solar panels will still be able to generate energy during a grid outage. To ensure that your solar system can keep working during a power outage, make sure to choose a quality solar provider and look for a solar system that includes a battery backup.
With respect to taxes, the federal government offers a tax credit of up to 30% of the panels' cost. Depending on where you live, you could also claim or apply for state or property tax incentives. For insurance, your monthly premium may be slightly higher because solar panels increase your property's value. You should speak with your accountant or insurance agent for information specific to your case.
Solar panels are on par with other forms of renewable energy. They have inexpensive upkeep and today's systems can stand up to the worst conditions.
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