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6 Best Solar Companies in Columbia, MO

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Written By David Cusick

Last Updated February 2024

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 Recommended Providers

Best Overall
4.7/5
  • High-quality Maxeon solar panels
  • Nearly 30 years in business
  • Great customer service
Best Financing Options
4.3/5
  • BluePower Plus+ financing program
  • Good selection of quality panels
  • Most affordable options

Top 6 Best Solar Companies in Columbia

Modern Power LLC

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500 E Walnut St #105, Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 239-5758 modernpower.net

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Free quotes

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Residential panels
Consultation
Battery storage
Commercial panels
Financing assistance

Dogwood Solar

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1501 Creekwood Pkwy #110, Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 447-6527 dogwoodsolar.com

Free quotes

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Commercial panels
Maintenance
Residential panels
Ev charger
Battery storage

Solar Sam

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3700 Interstate 70 Dr SE Suite 100-102, Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 615-0606 solarsam.com

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Maintenance
Cleaning
Residential panels
Commercial panels

Green Leaf Solar

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1406 B, Lakeview Ave, Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 639-2800 greenleaf-solar.com

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Residential panels

Missouri Solar Applications

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3617 Rte CC, Jefferson City, MO 65109 (573) 691-4647 mosolarapps.com

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Free quotes

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Financing assistance
Commercial panels
Residential panels
Consultation

Athena Solar, LLC

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31479 Arrow Ln, Marceline, MO 64658 (660) 591-5775 athena.solar

Reliable customer support

Free quotes

Informative resources

Services Offered

Commercial panels
Residential panels
Financing assistance
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

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:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

How To Choose a Solar Company

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.

Check Licensing

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.

Read Customer Reviews

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 evaluate a company's reliability and customer service. Use caution with providers that have no reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

Contact at least three solar companies for free, detailed quotes. Quotes should clearly explain all costs and specify the exact solar components included. Comparing multiple quotes helps identify the most cost-effective option for you.

Ask About the Warranty

Top-notch solar installations should come with strong workmanship and performance warranties. A workmanship warranty covers installation issues, such as poor alignment, cracks in the panels, or poor wiring. A performance guarantee ensures a minimum energy output. Comprehensive guarantees show that a solar company believes in its work.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Switching to solar power can help decrease your energy expenses over time. Be sure to weigh these aspects when judging the cost and value of solar panels.

  • Compare system purchase options: Solar panels can be purchased outright or paid for over time through loans or leases. Review all terms when financing, including payment schedule, annual percentage rate (APR), fees, and ownership implications.
  • Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal tax credit on total solar system costs is available through 2032. Many states provide incentives, too. The credits can lead to substantial savings for solar buyers.
  • Look into utility rebates: More rebates might be available from local power companies looking to motivate homeowners to go solar. Contact your local utility provider to learn rebate values and eligibility rules, so you can determine your possible savings.

Cost of Solar Installation in Columbia

The cost of home solar panels in Columbia varies depending on several factors, including the size of the system and the type of panels you'll use. Generally speaking, a complete solar energy system could range from $3,370 per kilowatt, not including labor, preliminary work, or permit fees. Most solar systems in Columbia are 7.2 kilowatts, and the typical Columbia homeowners spends $17,087 after accounting for federal tax refunds. Some homeowners may prefer leasing their solar panels to reduce upfront costs.

Columbia Solar Incentives Guide

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: columbiapowerpartners.com

Incentive Amount:

Solar Water Heater: $400 for electric customers or $800 for natural gas customers
Photovoltaic System: $375-625/kW for first 10kW; $300-500/kW for 10 - 50kW; $150-250/kW for 50 - 100 kW.

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: Rebate Program

Website: powermoves.com

Incentive Amount:

Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $500
Variable Speed Pool Pump: $250
Air-Source Heat Pump: $250 - $750
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500
Heat Pump Water Heater: $400/unit
HVAC: Varies depending on ZIP code. See program website

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

100% exemption

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: co-mo.coop

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 Type: Rebate Program

Website: central.libertyutilities.com

Incentive Amount:

$0.25 per watt for systems operational between July 1, 2019, and December 31, 2023

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: ameren.com

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

Incentive Type: Loan Program

Website: columbiapowerpartners.com

Incentive Amount:

$30,000

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Website: ecowatch.com

Incentive Amount:

30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Columbia, MO

A solar photovoltaic (PV) system can generate power to run any electric appliance or system in your home. A more specific example is installing a solar heating system for your water.

There are a number of benefits to home solar energy. You can reduce emissions, save money, and qualify for tax benefits. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also provide you with additional energy security and offer some protection from power outages.

Yes, you can use home solar energy alongside conventional power sources. In most parts of the country, solar panels are designed to supplement your existing energy sources, so you can reap the savings and environmental benefits of solar energy without having to completely switch over.

Generally speaking, your energy bills will significantly decrease 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.

Your payback period is the time to achieve an ROI on your solar panels. It will vary based on their rated capacity, the average sunlight in your area, and the rate your utility charges per kilowatt of power. Columbia gets quite a bit of sunlight per day, so an average payback period could last up to 12.8 years per 5 kW of capacity.

Regarding 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. As for insurance, your monthly premium may be slightly higher because solar panels increase your property's value. You should consult with your accountant or insurance agent for information specific to your case.

The answer will depend on your specific needs and goals. Generally speaking, monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient for Columbia homes. However, if you have a limited budget, then you could polycrystalline or thin-film solar panels. When selecting a solar company, make sure to ask about the brand names and models of solar panels an installer offers and the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Solar panels are on par with other forms of renewable energy. Their maintenance costs are low and today's systems can generate and manage energy under more conditions.

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